Level 3 AS/A2 Geology

Geology
AS/A2 Level - Two-year course
Geology is the science that deals with the study of the Earth. It is a broad subject that involves questions such as:

• How and when was the Earth formed?
• What is the Earth made of?
• How has the surface of the Earth, and life on it, changed since its formation?
• What may happen to the Earth in the future?

To answer these questions, geologists need to be both scientists and detectives. Evidence left by events sometimes millions of years ago, must be obtained, analysed and compared with things happening today. Geology may study old things, but in many ways it is a new science.

In year one (AS), topics studied include: the structure of the Earth; earthquakes; geological structures and the rock cycle; igneous; sedimentary and metamorphic processes.

In year two (A2), topics studied include the preservation of organisms as fossils, how the Earth has changed over time and economic and environmental geology. In both years, practical skills will be developed. Students taking Geology will be given the opportunity to participate in fieldwork in Britain and abroad.

Careers and Further Studies
With a qualification in Geology, students could progress to Higher Education. Career possibilities include the exploration, extraction and use of Earth resources, civil engineering, planning, surveying, land-use and environmental management and work in science-based industries.

General Entry Requirements
Students will need the following:
1. An average GCSE points score of 4.7 calculated from your eight best GCSEs or equivalent vocational qualifications but must include GCSE Maths and English Language.
2. At least five GCSEs at grade C or above which must include GCSE English Language.