Earth Science and Physical Geography BSc (Hons)

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) Earth Science and Physical Geography allows you to combine your understanding of both physical geography and Earth processes to address global challenges.

It balances data science, programming, and computing skills with traditional field and laboratory skills, along with a knowledge of Earth science and geography.

You will learn about:

• the structure, composition and history of the Earth
• the Earth's resources and how we can sustainably manage them
• the associated hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides
• the deep-Earth processes that shape the Earth's surface and their impacts on the environment

We will build on this knowledge to explore how rocks, oceans, rivers, glaciers, and human impact define the modern and ancient landscape. We will also explore how Earth system processes impact society.

This understanding is important for leading research on global change and many of the world's physical environmental challenges.

The exciting nature of Earth science and geography means you will have a diverse learning experience during your years with us.

You can find details for compulsory and option courses through the 'Programme Structure' link below.

Switching degrees

Most of the courses in Years 1 and 2 are shared with our range of Earth science and environment degrees. You will then specialise in the subjects of your choice in later years.

As a result, you may have the opportunity to switch between degrees in your early years. However, some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary prerequisite courses. You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to make sure that these options are still available to you.

We also offer a five-year MEarthSci Earth Science and Physical Geography. Typically, you can switch to the MEarthSci Earth Science and Physical Geography until Year 4 of your programme, provided you meet the requirements.

Option courses

One of the best things about a Scottish undergraduate degree is the amount of electives (called 'option courses') you can study. You have the opportunity to take a significant number of courses outside your degree in Years 1 and 2.

You can choose courses related to your degree, or you can try something different and new to you.

Although we try to provide a wide range of option courses to choose from, these can be subject to change or cancellation at short notice. Places on option courses can be limited due to course capacity and timetabling constraints. It may not be possible to guarantee every student their top choice of option courses. 

Data innovation

A key feature of our programme is a focus on developing your skills around the generation and analysis of scientific data, aided by a range of computational techniques. Demand is growing for these data skills across a range of employment sectors.

Along with your subject-specific skills, you will develop valuable transferable skills, for example:

• the ability to think in 3D and 4D
• advanced computing and data skills
• model building from limited datasets
• dealing with complex systems and uncertainties
• understanding processes on a range of scales
• extrapolating hypotheses based on small data sets
• the capability to integrate spatial and temporal information
• extracting key information from complex sets of observations
• assessing large data sets and pattern recognition in complex data

Future programme changes