Geology and Geophysics MESci (Hons)
Bachelor's degree
In Liverpool
Description
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Type
Bachelor's degree
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Location
Liverpool
This four-year degree delivers advanced and rigorous training in both geophysics and geology, including a high proportion of field based work, and fundamental training in physics and mathematics. This degree is accredited by the Geological Society of London, satisfying the requirements of Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status. Graduates are highly successful in finding degree-related careers or continuing onto PhD programmes. The degree programme provides an excellent background for a wideranging career in geosciences, allowing (for example) flexible career paths between geology and geophysics in a large company. Transfer to a Geology degree is possible up to the end of Year One. You will cover core topics in geophysics, geology, physics and mathematics. Major features include training in practical geology and geophysics, exploration geophysics (particularly seismology), planetary-scale geophysics and geophysical inverse theory. Fieldwork currently involves field areas in Ireland, Wales, Tenerife, and Spain. In Year Three, you will undertake an independent field mapping project and dissertation, either in the UK or abroad. In the final year you will work within one of our geophysical research groups to undertake a substantial research project, often producing research of publishable quality thus providing an ideal entry into further research degrees if desired. Department Key Facts Number of first year students102 Geology and Geophysics Year One undergraduates in 2015 UK league tables12th in the Guardian University League Tables 2016 Graduate prospects84% in work or further study after six months, with an average salary of £20,000 (range £17K-£25K) National Student Survey93% of our students were satisfied overall with their course in the National Student Survey 2015 Department...
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About this course
Entry Requirements A level offerAAB Subject requirementsMathematics and Physics A level BTECNot accepted. Applicants should apply for F640. International Baccalaureate35 points with no score less than 4, inc. Higher Level in Mathematics and Physics. Irish Leaving CertificateA1, A1, A1, B1. Scottish Higher/Advanced HigherNot accepted without Advanced Highers at grades AAB. Advanced Welsh BaccalaureateAccepted including Mathematics and Physics A levels at AA. EU Entry RequirementsEU Qualifications ...
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Subjects
- Interpretation
- Management
- Credit
- C++
- Basic
- IT
- Basic IT training
- Basic IT
- Geology
- Composition
- Mathematics
- Maths
- Geophysics
- University
- Project
- IT Management
- GIS
- GCSE Mathematics
- GCSE Physics
- Skills and Training
Course programme
A strong feature of Years One and Two is the acquisition of fundamentals in Maths, Physics, Geology and Geophysics supported by an integrated approach to transferable skills conveyed through the tutorial system. Students take the following compulsory modules:
- Study Skills and GIS
- Introduction to Field Geology
- Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics
- Introduction to Sedimentary Rocks and Fossils
- Introduction to Structural Geology and Geological Maps
- Newtonian Dynamics
- Maths for Physics 1
- Maths for Physics 2
Fieldwork:
- 1 day in North England (Autumn)
- 8 days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)
- Study Skills and Gis (earth Science) (ENVS101) Level 1 Credit level 15 Semester Whole Session Exam:Coursework weighting 0:100 Aims
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To develop essential study and disciplinary skills required by Environmental Scientists, both for their current studies and future employment.
- Introduce students to key approaches/concepts and ideas in the Earth Sciences
- To help students identify and effectively employ appropriate sources of data and information
- Develop students'' study skills and provide essential training for subsequent years
- Develop students'' personal transferable skills.
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To introduce the application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to Environmental Science
Learning Outcomes
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Introduction To Field Geology (ENVS109)
Level
1
Credit level
15
Semester
Whole Session
Exam:Coursework weighting
0:100
Aims
To introduce students to field geology
Learning Outcomes 1. Knowledge and Understanding On successful completion of this module, students should have competence in:a. Rock and mineral identification
2. Intellectual Abilities
b. Identification of characteristic features of rock outcrops
c. Geological history of PembrokeshireOn successful completion of this module, students should have competence in:
a. Interpretation of outcrop features in terms of geological processes and environments.
b. Three-dimensual visualizationOn successful completion of this module, students should have competence in:
a. How to make geological observations in the field
4. General Transferable Skills
b. How to record those observations
c. How to keep a scientific notebook
d. How to construct a sedimentary log
e. Geometrical analysis using stereonets
f. How to locate themselves on a topographic mapOn successful completion of this module, students should have competence in:
a. Teamwork through working in small groups each day.
b. Time and logistical management by fulfilling a strict and demanding timetable og outdoor work each day.
c. Conceptual problem solving by completing the active learning tasks set each day.
d. Fieldwork hazard assessment from a pre-class paper exercise and by evaluating hazards at each locality every day. -
Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (ENVS112)
Level
1
Credit level
15
Semester
First Semester
Exam:Coursework weighting
75:25
Aims
To introduce students to the structure and composition of the Earth, the Earth’s gravitational and magnetic fields, and dynamics within the deep Earth.
To introduce students to the physics of Earth material and the geological time scale.
To introduce students to plate tectonics. Learning OutcomesOn completion of this module, students should:
a. Have concepts and knowledge of whole Earth structure and composition, Earth’s gravity and magnetic fields, and dynamic processes within the mantle and core.
2. Intellectual Abilities
b. Have concepts and knowledge of the physical properties and behaviour of Earth material.
c. Have concepts and knowledge of the geological time scale and radiometric dating methods.
d. Be able to understand the plate tectonic model and the relationship between plate tectonics and geological and geophysical observations in the major plate tectonic settings.On completion of this module, students shouldbe able:
a. to explain and evaluate the relationships between Earth structure, composition, physical behaviour and Earth dynamics;
3. Subject Based Practical Skills
b. to explain and evaluate the relationships between plate tectonics and geological and geophysical processes and observations in the major plate tectonic settings.On completion of this module, students should:
a. be able to manipulate geological and geophysical data to help understand Earth structure and processes.
4. General Transferable SkillsOn completion of this module, students should have developed their skills in:
a. problem solving including simple numerical problems;
b. numeracy through completion of assignments;
c. Information synthesis and collation;
d. time management through regular assignment deadlines. - Introduction To Sedimentary Rocks and Fossils (ENVS118) Level 1 Credit level 15 Semester First Semester Exam:Coursework weighting 75:25 Aims
- The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the study of sediments and sedimentary rocks and to introduce the main groups of common fossil.
- The module aims to cover the basic language used to describe sediments and fossils and gives an introduction to a range of physical,chemical and biological concepts.
- The students are introduced to the economic significance of sediments and sedimentary rocks and how fossils provide information on geological time, evolutionary history and ancient environments. Learning Outcomes 1. Knowledge and Understanding
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Introduction To Structural Geology and Geological Maps (ENVS156)
Level
1
Credit level
15
Semester
Second Semester
Exam:Coursework weighting
80:20
Aims
To introduce small- and large-scale geological structures.
To introduce the principles of stress and strain.
To introduce stereographic projection techniques.
To use synthetic and real topographic and geological maps to teach a basic understanding of geological maps as representations of geometry and stratigraphy.
Learning Outcomes 1. Knowledge and UnderstandingOn the successful completion of this module students should:
a. know the geometry and nomenclature of geological structures;
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Record field observations and ideas.
Prepare and deliver oral and poster presentations.
Plan and structure written work to University standard.
Undertake independent GPS data collection and d emonstrate basic GIS interpretation and analysis techniques
Use IT tools to find accurate and up to date information, including University Library resources.
Work in groups effectively
By the end of the module the students should:
a. be able to give an account of the basic characteristics of the main types of sedimentary rock;
b. be able to demonstrate that they understand the origin of some of the most important structures and textures;
c. have a clear understanding of the relationships between sedimentary processes and products.
d. know the characteristic features of common fossilse.
e. know how fossils can be preserved
f. understand the concept of functional morphology and its use in determining modes of life in the fossil record
g. understand the use of fossils in dating rocks and
h. know how and why organisms are classified
2. Intellectual AbilitiesBy the end of the module the students should:
a. be able to analyse sedimentary structures and rock fabrics to interpret depositional processes;
b. be able to analyse petrographic fabrics to interpret diagenetic processes and environments;
c. be able to link observational data with systematic interpretation of process, product and, to a lesser extent, environment.
d. identify the common groups of fossil from observational data
e. expain how fossils form and interpret their depositional setting
f. interpret mode of life from fossil morphology
3. Subject Based Practical SkillsThe students should be able to:
a. use a hand lens and a petrological microscope to help describe and identify sedimentary rocks and particles;
b. observe and record features in sediments and sedimentary sequences in a concise and scientific way.
c. make accurate drawings of fossils
d. observe and describe the characteristic features of common fossils
4. General Transferable SkillsStudents are expected to develop:
a. skills in the accurate and systematic recording of data. (In practical classes they are given formative feedback on their laboratory books and these are handed in for inspection at the final examination);
b. an ability to synthesize information and to relate practical (observations) to relevant theoretical concepts. (This is tested in the examination).
c. the ability to work together and develop interpersonal and team work skills during the practicals: these are not formally assessed.
d. time management skills though completing and handing in assessed practical work on time
e. team skills through group working in practicals
Geology and Geophysics MESci (Hons)