BSc (Hons) Geophysics with a Placement Year
Course
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Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F660
- Typical Offer
- ABB including Mathematics
- Contextual Offer
- BBC including Mathematics
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Our Geophysics degree with a placement year is designed for curious minds eager to explore the dynamic and forces shaping our planet. Geophysics merges the power of physics, mathematics, and earth sciences, offering you a unique opportunity to make a real impact on our changing world.
This programme explores questions such as: What happens inside a volcano? How can we forecast earthquakes and mitigate the impact? Why do we experience extreme weather? How can we make the transition to sustainable and secure energy? With a geophysics degree at UEA, you’ll explore geophysics in the context of the entire Earth system. You’ll study the Earth’s many processes, from the seas and skies to the deep interior, and learn about the way they shape our environment. You’ll have the choice of a significant range of diverse modules, with a particularly strong emphasis on geophysical hazards and geo-resources for a sustainable future. You’ll also have the opportunity to spend a year gaining valuable experience on a work placement.
Geophysics offers practical solutions to some of the most significant challenges facing our planet, such as environmental sustainability, resource exploration, and natural hazard assessment. At UEA, you’ll develop key geophysical skills through exciting fieldwork and interdisciplinary study. This degree will unlock a wide range of career paths, from working in environmental consulting and energy exploration to contributing to future-shaping research in academia. Geophysics graduates from UEA are highly sought after in industries. UEA is one of the best places to study it – we're ranked in the top 20 for Geophysics by “QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023”.
This four-year course will inspire a lifelong understanding of the way the Earth works. You’ll explore how the whole Earth system, and its interactions, shape our environment. You’ll engage in a significant amount of fieldwork in various geological environments where you’ll learn to use a variety of state-of-the-art geophysical instruments and software, including seismic, electrical and magnetic imaging tools, ground-penetrating radar, and advanced modelling techniques. You’ll also develop practical skills that are in high demand across industries. Check out this solar water pump start-up project, founded by UEA graduates. You’ll also spend a year on a work placement which will increase your employability and give you the opportunity to put your learning into practice.
At the School of Environmental Sciences, you’ll benefit from a broad choice of subject material offered by our experienced and passionate faculty members who are actively involved in ground-breaking research. You’ll have the chance to specialise in your field of interest to an advanced level. You can tailor your degree towards geological geophysics, geohazards, meteorology and climatology, or oceanography – or study a combination of them all. You can also learn about how to manage big data from techniques such as remote sensing, using advanced techniques including machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Placement Year
This course includes a year on a work placement, with relevant work experience, valuable contacts and real-world insight.
We have well-established commercial connections throughout the UK and beyond. Past students have worked in local and national government, in SMEs and multinationals, for environmental consultancies and research institutes and with conservation groups and NGOs.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement and in the first two weeks of your second year you’ll be asked to write a CV and to apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it'll also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you'll require after graduation. We'll, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst students are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by a placement supervisor and a mentor from the University. You and your placement supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you were unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you'll have the option to apply to be transferred onto the equivalent degree programme without a Placement Year.
Accreditations
This course has been accredited by the Geological Society of London. This accreditation status provides added assurance to prospective students that the course content and structure has been approved by an independent body of academics and industrialists and that the teaching is of the highest quality. An accredited degree will reduce the amount of post-graduation experience you'll require to apply for Chartered Geologist and Chartered Scientist. A professional geoscientist holding an accredited degree is eligible to apply for Chartered status one year earlier than those with unaccredited degrees. Those holding two accredited degrees (e.g. BSc and MSc) can apply two years earlier.
In order to receive the award of an accredited degree, you’re required to follow an accredited pathway – this is something that your adviser and course director will be able to advise you on. The accredited pathway requires you to take particular modules, and requires you to undertake a certain amount of field work (partly achieved by taking the required modules and partly by undertaking some fieldwork for the final year project).
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The Geological Society of London
This course has been accredited by The Geological Society of London.
Study and Modules
Structure
This four-year course follows a similar structure to the BSc Geophysics, but with an additional year of work experience through an industrial placement.
You’ll start with a year of compulsory modules to establish your knowledge on essential topics. You’ll then select from optional modules in your second and final years, allowing you to direct your own studies and take as broad or focused a path as you wish. In your final year, you’ll also undertake an independent research project on a subject of your choice.
In compulsory modules, you’ll discover the general scientific principles governing geophysics. In multi-disciplinary modules from the wider Faculty of Science you’ll explore the essential analytical skills you'll need during further years – including areas such as probability, mechanics and modelling.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Across your years studying, you’ll be taught by leading geophysicists and environmental scientists through a combination of lectures, laboratories, workshops, seminars and fieldwork. Our modules are informed by their specialisms, which means you’ll benefit from access to the latest thinking and research.
Most modules will have a practical element where you’ll experiment and gain valuable hands-on experience. Practical work ranges from measuring flow rates of analogue fluids in our high-tech labs to using seismic equipment to investigate the subsurface on our beautiful campus. In addition, you’ll have the option of going on residential field courses where you’ll carry out investigations to solve real-world problems. Past students have gone on field trips to places such as Greece, Spain, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and The Lake District.
Independent study
You’ll spend time carrying out independent study throughout your course. This may be researching in UEA’s state-of-the-art library, carrying out practical work in our high-tech labs, conducting independent fieldwork, or performing analyses in our modern computer suites.
This course will give you an excellent balance of independent thinking and study skills, helping you grow into a self-motivated learner, an expert researcher and analytical thinker. Along with the specialised knowledge you'll gain, you’ll also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, technical and numerical expertise, and confidence in leadership and management.
Academic support
To make sure you get the most from your studies and help you reach your full potential, our Learning Enhancement team (based in the Student Support Service) are on hand to help with skills in writing, research, exams and more.
Assessment
At the end of each module, you’ll be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results and this format remains the same throughout your time during the course. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Structure
As the course progresses, you’ll study applied geophysics and continue to develop your mathematical knowledge. You’ll also enjoy more freedom to tailor your course around your own interests, choosing from a wide variety of modules.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In year two, teaching will be delivered through a blend of lectures, laboratories, workshops, seminars, and fieldwork. Our modules are shaped by the expertise of our staff, ensuring you have access to the latest research and ideas. Most modules include practical components where you’ll conduct experiments and gain valuable hands-on experience, including the opportunity to participate in residential field courses. The focus on independent work will continue and our Learning Enhancement team will be on hand to offer support throughout your studies.
Assessment
In year two, assessment for each module will usually involve a blend of coursework, projects, and examinations. The distribution of assessment between coursework and exams varies depending on the specific modules you select. Additionally, we incorporate practice assessments, known as ‘formative’ assessments, throughout each module to provide feedback before you submit your final, or ‘summative’, work.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement lasting from 9 to 14 months, gaining relevant experience and developing your skills and knowledge. Our well-established commercial connections throughout the UK and beyond will help you secure the best possible placement for you. Positions are usually paid, and your tuition fees will be much reduced for this year.
During your work placement, you’ll have a UEA mentor who will visit you. You’ll take a Work Based Learning module to help you reflect on your placement and get the most from your experience.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Your placement year is not formally taught but offers a wealth of learning opportunities. You’ll reflect on what you gain over the course of the year with support from an academic mentor. Typically, you’ll spend 9 to 12 months working for an employer, gaining real-life experience of a field within or allied to environmental sciences. Example employers include environmental consultancies, local or national government departments and agencies, research institutions, charities and commercial organisations. We have well-established connections throughout the UK and beyond and will support you through highly competitive application processes to secure you the best possible placement. Positions are usually paid, but the amounts vary.
Assessment
Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge that you’ve developed and does not count to your final mark.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll undertake a research project, investigating a specialist area in professional depth with one-to-one support from an academic supervisor. You’ll also study a range of advanced modules from geophysical science as well as covering the wider aspects of the subject, in areas such as geophysical hazards, meteorology and modelling environmental processes.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Back at UEA in your final year, teaching will comprise a mixture of lectures, laboratories, workshops, seminars, and fieldwork. Our modules are developed based on the knowledge and expertise of our faculty, ensuring that you have access to the most up-to-date research. Practical components are integrated into most modules, allowing you to conduct experiments and acquire practical skills, including participating in residential field courses for hands-on learning. The emphasis on independent study will continue, supported by our Learning Enhancement team who will be available to help you throughout your academic journey.
Assessment
Back at UEA in year four, each module will be evaluated through a combination of coursework, projects, and examinations. The proportion of assessment allocated to coursework and exams varies depending on your chosen modules. We use practice assessments, termed ‘formative’ assessments, throughout each module to offer feedback on your skills and understanding prior to your submission of final, or ‘summative’ assignments.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Mathematics.
Contextual offer: BBC including Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM plus B in A-Level Mathematics.
Contextual offer: DMM plus B in A-Level Mathematics.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus B in A-Level Mathematics.
Contextual offer: DD plus C in A-Level Mathematics.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-Level including Mathematics.
Contextual offer: D plus BC at A-Level including Mathematics.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Mathematics.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, and Science.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Environmental Science with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Mathematics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB including A in Mathematics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
ABB including Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components).
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during the year in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees pages.
There may be extra costs related to items such as your travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
After graduating you could follow in the footsteps of past graduates and go into sectors such as water management, resource exploration, geotechnical engineering, risk analysis, environmental consultancy, hazard management or teaching.
Alternatively, you could continue your studies with a taught master's degree such as the MSc in Environmental Science or a research degree such as a PhD.
To get your career off to the best start, our Careers Service run annual Environmental Science events. These include alumni-led presentations and workshops across a range of sectors, including industrial, governmental and academia.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Water Management
- Resource Exploration
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Risk Analysis
- Environmental Consultancy
- Hazard Management
Discover more on our Careers webpages.