BSc (Hons) Geophysics with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F660
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Our Geophysics degree 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 the changing world.
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. This program is designed for curious minds eager to explore the dynamic and forces shaping our planet. 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. The 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 are 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. You’ll develop practical skills that are in high demand across industries. During your field courses, 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 have the opportunity to spend a year on a work placement – an invaluable addition to your scientific knowledge and technique. This will increase your employability and give you the chance to put your first two years of 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 and Study Abroad
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 will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you'll require after graduation. We will, 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 is 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, 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 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).
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
Teaching
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 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.
In your first two years, about one third of your study time will be spent in lectures, seminars, practicals and fieldwork, amounting to around 15-18 contact hours per week. This will reduce to around 12 hours per week in your third year to allow time to work on your independent research project.
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
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.
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
Teaching
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 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.
In your first two years, about one third of your study time will be spent in lectures, seminars, practicals and fieldwork, amounting to around 15-18 contact hours per week. This will reduce to around 12 hours per week in your third year to allow time to work on your independent research project.
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
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.
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
Teaching
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 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.
In your first two years, about one third of your study time will be spent in lectures, seminars, practicals and fieldwork, amounting to around 15-18 contact hours per week. This will reduce to around 12 hours per week in your third year to allow time to work on your independent research project.
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
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 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
Teaching
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 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.
In your first two years, about one third of your study time will be spent in lectures, seminars, practicals and fieldwork, amounting to around 15-18 contact hours per week. This will reduce to around 12 hours per week in your third year to allow time to work on your independent research project.
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.
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
- ABB 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 a B 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
- DDM 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 – BBC 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 – DMM 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
- AAABB including grade A in Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC including Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Mathematics.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the 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
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 points 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):
-
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:
-
- 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: DDM 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 the year in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website.
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
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 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.