MSci Geophysics with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Sciences
- UCAS Course Code
- F67A
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
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Why you should choose us
UEA is ranked 4th overall for research quality in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Course Overview
What happens inside a volcano? How can we forecast earthquakes? Why do we experience extreme weather and can we control it? How can we make the transition to sustainable and secure energy? How do different cultures approach these subjects?
With a geophysics integrated master's degree at UEA, you’ll explore geophysics at an advanced level 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 control our environment. You’ll have the choice of a significant range of modules thanks to our diverse expertise, with a particularly strong emphasis on geophysical hazards and geo resources for a sustainable future. Plus, you’ll spend a year living and studying at one of our partner universities in Australasia, North America or Europe.
This is a highly desirable four-year earth science degree due to the varied skills you’ll develop. The subject can be applied in many different industrial, governmental and academic careers. UEA is one of the best places to study it – we have a global reputation for excellence in Environmental Sciences.
This four-year course will inspire a lifelong interest, knowledge and understanding of the way the Earth works. You’ll explore how the whole Earth system, and its interactions, control our environment and will develop an understanding of the issues that threaten our future.
As part of this degree programme, you’ll have the opportunity to spend your third year studying and living abroad with one of our university exchange partners in Australasia, North America or Europe. Going to a university in another country is an unmissable opportunity to experience other cultures and lifestyles and will give you the chance to study within a department where different aspects of geophysics are taught.
During your course, you’ll study mathematical techniques and gain the skills necessary to analyse the physical environment. You’ll develop a critical awareness of issues at the frontier of research, along with a comprehensive understanding of research methods and their limitations. You’ll learn self-direction and originality in applying knowledge, solving problems and conducting research.
You’ll get involved in a significant amount of fieldwork in many different geological environments. During your field course, you’ll learn to use a variety of technological equipment and techniques, including seismic and gravity investigations, magnetic and electrical measurements, and ground-penetrating radar surveys.
Our geophysics degrees are run jointly by the School of Environmental Sciences and the School of Mathematics, and in collaboration with the School of Computing Sciences, so you’ll benefit from a broad choice of subject material and 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).
When you graduate, you’ll be highly employable, with a wide range of skills that are highly prized by employers. Many of our graduates have gone on to work for local and multinational companies within sectors including geophysical exploration and services, geotechnical engineering, risk analysis and environmental consultancy.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course, you’ll spend a year of your studies in Australasia, Europe or North America, giving you the chance to experience a whole new culture. You’ll also be able to study a different range of topics, learn a new language and develop useful contacts for your future career. Currently we have students at:
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
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 will 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, students are 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 students to take some particular modules and also requires the student 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).
The current accreditation is for a six-year period, from April 2018. We expect to apply for renewal at the end of this period.
Study and Modules
Structure
The core compulsory modules will introduce you to the general scientific principles governing geophysics. Multi-disciplinary modules from the wider Faculty of Science will give you the essential analytical skills you’ll need in the future – including in areas such as 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 the years, 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 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 of 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 trips have included Greece, Spain, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and the Lake District, to name a few.
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 will 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 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. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years.
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
(Credits: 60)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 the years, 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 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 of 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 trips have included Greece, Spain, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and the Lake District, to name a few.
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 will 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 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. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year studying at one of our university exchange partners in Australasia, North America or Europe. There you’ll take modules offered by your host university – often giving you the chance to explore a new area.
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 the years, 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 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 of 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 trips have included Greece, Spain, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and the Lake District, to name a few.
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 will 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 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. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Structure
Back at UEA for your final year, you’ll deliver an independent research project on a topic that inspires you – enabling you to put everything you’ve learnt into practice. You'll also have the choice of a range of Master’s-level modules, including field courses overseas and topics such as energy, climate science and Earth science.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B 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
Across the years, 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 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 of 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 trips have included Greece, Spain, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and the Lake District, to name a few.
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 will 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 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. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the years.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including Mathematics. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction or Science.
- BTEC
- DDD plus B at A-Level Mathematics. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBB including Mathematics. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Countryside Management plus B at A-Level Mathematics.
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.
- Scottish Highers
- AAAAA including Mathematics
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC including Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Mathematics
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Mathematics.
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 including HL5 in Mathematics.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- 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):
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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:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- 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.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDD plus B at A-Level Mathematics. .
Diploma: DD plus B at A-Level in Mathematics.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A-Level to include Mathematics.
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 Sciences with a Foundation Year.
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.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
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:
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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 your year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees webpages.
There will be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
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 PhD.
To get your career off to the best start, our Careers Service runs annual Environmental Science events. These include alumni-led presentations and workshops across a range of sectors, including industry, government and academia.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Environmental consultant
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Conservation officer
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Environmental analyst
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Renewable energy adviser
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Graduate sustainability consultant
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Graduate carbon management consultant
Discover more on our careers webpages and check out some of our recent graduate destinations.