UCAS Code: FF68

Course Length: 3 Years Full-Time

Start Dates: September 2018

Department: Department of Geography

Location: Edge Hill University

• Develop your knowledge and understanding ofphysical geography and geological scienceprocesses and their role in shaping the Earth;

• Travel to a variety of fieldwork destinations in theUK and abroad;

• Equip yourself with a wide range of fieldwork,laboratory and key skills that will enhance youremployability.

This degree will enable you to learn about our naturalworld, balancing the present-day study of physicalgeography with the geological dimension of how theEarth has changed through time since it was formed. Youwill gain skills in the fundamental techniques of bothphysical geography and geology, with a strong emphasison practical field and laboratory work. This isunderpinned by an exploration of the geological featuresof phenomena such as rivers, oceans, erosion andvolcanoes. You will explore them both as they are nowand as they were in the geological past. In combination,these investigations will provide a unique perspective onour planet and how it changes.

BSc (Hons) Physical Geography andGeology

Studying Abroad Option Available Sandwich Year Option Available International Students Can Apply

Fieldwork

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Course in Depth

What will I study?

Year 1 provides a foundation in the sciences of physicalgeography and geology, including training in keylaboratory techniques. This is supported by tworesidential field courses, during which you will be trainedin fundamental and applied fieldwork skills.

In Year 2 you will look at topics such as the geologicalforms and processes associated with igneous, volcanicand sedimentary geology and geological mapping.Physical Geography modules will cover the Earth'sweather and climate systems, soils and geomorphology.You will also enhance and further develop essentialresearch skills in physical geography and geology throughlaboratory work and local and overseas fieldwork.

Year 3 involves completing an independent researchproject (dissertation) on a geological topic, together withmodules on fluvial and coastal geomorphology, andapplied environmental and engineering geology. You willhave the opportunity to choose modules on wetlands, thenature and causes of environmental change and naturalhazards.

How will I study?

Teaching is through fieldwork, laboratory and practicalactivities, lectures, tutorials, dissertation supervision anddirected independent learning. We place an emphasis onstrengthening the employability potential of ourgraduates through the acquisition of a range ofsubject-specific, key and career management skills, aswell as the development of knowledge andunderstanding.

Fieldwork, in the UK and abroad, is one of the mostbeneficial and enjoyable aspects of this degree. Currentfieldwork locations include Cumbria, Anglesey, Ireland,Tenerife and the Scottish Highlands. You will also visitlocal sites.

How will I be assessed?

Methods of assessment display your knowledge andunderstanding and develop and demonstrate your

competence in subject-specific and key skills. All modulesare assessed by either coursework only or a mixture ofcoursework and examination. Exams never count formore than 60% of the total mark for those modules thatinclude an examination. Coursework includes practicalportfolios, essays, project reports, field notebooks,individual and group oral presentations and posterpresentations.

Who will be teaching me?

We have experienced and knowledgeable staff who takepride in the quality of their teaching. All staff are researchactive which means that they keep up to date with thelatest developments in their areas of interest and passthis knowledge on. We are not a large department so youwon't get lost in the crowd.

A Great Study Environment

The Department of Geography's modern andwide-ranging facilities combine with a friendly andsupportive learning environment to ensure that yourstudies are a rich and rewarding experience.

The Geosciences building features a large lecture theatre,small group teaching rooms, physical geography andenvironmental science laboratories, a geology laboratory,a geo-engineering laboratory, geo-informationlaboratories and a large social area.

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Modules

Year 1

GEO1045: Introducing PhIntroducing Physical Geogrysical Geographiesaphies (20 credits)Introducing PhIntroducing Physical Geogrysical Geographiesaphies provides an overview of physical geography which looks at basic concepts and theirdevelopment. The module outlines the physical framework of the Earth’s surface and investigates the materials andprocesses operating there. It covers aspects of biogeography, soils, climatology and geomorphology.

GEO1046: EnEnvironmental Issuesvironmental Issues (20 credits)EnEnvironmental Issuesvironmental Issues provides an awareness and understanding of the nature of environmental issues facing theworld today. Issues such as climatic change, water quality, flooding, biodiversity loss and human vulnerability to naturalhazards will be considered. Through case studies, the physical processes underlying the issues will be explainedtogether with an evaluation of management responses.

GEO1047: PrPractical Skills for Geogractical Skills for Geographaphy and Eny and Environmental Sciencevironmental Science (20 credits)PrPractical Skills for Geogractical Skills for Geographaphy and Eny and Environmental Sciencevironmental Science is a skills-based module, using geographical knowledge todevelop a range of subject-specific skills together with general use of ICT and communication skills. The modulefocuses on the handling, analysis and communication of spatial and graphical data. You will be introduced to theprinciples, uses and practical skills of Geographical Information Systems as part of the module.

GEO1240: Rocks, MinerRocks, Minerals and Fals and Fossilsossils (20 credits)Rocks, MinerRocks, Minerals and Fals and Fossilsossils enables you to appreciate the origin, composition, dynamics and history of the Earth as aplanet. The module will show plate tectonics as a unifying concept in the geological sciences, illustrating thecomposition and formation of major mineral and rock groups and equipping you with the skills and knowledge requiredto describe, identify and classify marine and terrestrial fossils.

GEO1241: Geological Research Methods 1Geological Research Methods 1 (20 credits)Geological Research Methods 1Geological Research Methods 1 provides an overview of a range of field and laboratory geological techniques coveringthe breadth of knowledge and skills that a geologist in training needs to successfully study and practise geology atmore advanced levels. The module will guide you in recording basic geological information in the field and in thelaboratory. You will learn how to communicate field information in an appropriate and scientific manner, discover howto recognise the form and function of basic geological maps and deduce aspects of Earth history from them.

GEO1242: Earth HistoryEarth History (20 credits)Earth HistoryEarth History enables you to appreciate geological time. In particular, the module will look at the evolution of the Earthfrom both a global perspective as well as the development of the British Isles. You will examine the beginning of thesolar system and the theories behind the origin of the Earth and the Moon. The early conditions of Earth's history willalso be examined by considering the early continental crust, the likely nature of plate tectonics and the origin of theatmosphere and hydrosphere. The rise of modern style plate tectonics, the origin of life and the rise of atmosphericoxygen will be introduced alongside changes in the oceans and evolution of the Earth's climate. Major episodes such as"Snowball and Greenhouse Earth" along with asteroid impacts, mass extinctions and super-massive volcanic eruptionswill be outlined.

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Year 2

GEO2071: Research Methods for PhResearch Methods for Physical Geogrysical Geographaphy and Eny and Environmental Sciencevironmental Science (20 credits)Research Methods for PhResearch Methods for Physical Geogrysical Geographaphy and Eny and Environmental Sciencevironmental Science uses investigative research processes toenhance and develop your knowledge and understanding of essential research methods in physical geographical andenvironmental science.

GEO2075: GeomorphologyGeomorphology (20 credits)GeomorphologyGeomorphology introduces you to the study of geomorphological processes and the landforms they produce in a rangeof Earth surface environments. The module will outline important concepts for understanding the relationshipsbetween processes and landforms. You will study the linkages between landforms and processes in a selection of Earthsurface environments such as coastal, fluvial, desert and glacial. You will also be introduced to the identification oflandforms and the observation of processes through work in the field and laboratory.

GEO2077: WWeathereather, Climate and Soils, Climate and Soils (20 credits)WWeathereather, Climate and Soils, Climate and Soils provides you with a detailed understanding of the climate system and the soil system. Themodule covers a range of atmospheric processes through to the development of weather systems, with a specific focuson mid-latitude weather. The varying nature and properties of soils, and the soil processes which give rise to soilformation and development are then considered. You will receive practical training in the analysis and interpretationof meteorological data as well as being guided in the methods used in the field and laboratory analysis of soils.

GEO2240: VVolcanic and Igneous Rocks and Processesolcanic and Igneous Rocks and Processes (20 credits)VVolcanic and Igneous Rocks and Processesolcanic and Igneous Rocks and Processes advances your knowledge and understanding as well as presentingcontemporary reviews of new ideas and controversies surrounding geological forms and processes associated withigneous and volcanic geology. An understanding of volcanic and igneous geology is crucial to the Earth Sciencesbecause of the interactive nature of Earth’s systems. A case study approach is adopted to study a variety of themeswhich illustrate the need for integrated study in these areas.

GEO2241: Sediments and the BiosphereSediments and the Biosphere (20 credits)Sediments and the BiosphereSediments and the Biosphere investigates sedimentary processes and products, as well as the interaction of thebiosphere with sediments and sedimentary rocks, across a range of environments past and present. A range oftechniques for examining and describing sediments, sedimentary rocks and elements of the biosphere will beintroduced. This includes hand specimen and microscope analysis and field data recording. You will explore the use ofthese techniques in interpreting modern and ancient sedimentary environments and environmental change.

GEO2242: Geological Research Methods 2Geological Research Methods 2 (20 credits)Geological Research Methods 2Geological Research Methods 2 is about the application of knowledge in geology. The module will introduce you toindependent field working and develop geological field mapping skills in complex terranes. Your field workunderstanding will be assisted by the use of digital geological techniques, in particular the use of vector graphicdrawing packages and ArcGIS. Rock mass properties using the engineering laboratory will be introduced to provide awider perspective and you will consider how they might be used in geological fieldwork.

Year 3

GEO3075: RivRivers and Coastsers and Coasts (20 credits)RivRivers and Coastsers and Coasts immerses you in the advanced study of fluvial and coastal landscapes. The module draws ongeomorphological, environmental and management issues in rivers and coastlines in the UK and around the world,with particular emphasis on fluvial/coastal processes and resources. The impact of management strategies and climatechange on fluvial and coastal landscapes will also be explored. The module considers key theories on fluvial and coastal

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geomorphology, examines recent papers in each topic area and explores some of the techniques and instrumentationin modern research. A number of examples will be drawn from research in the North West of England and other areasof the UK.

GEO3083: Dissertation in GeologyDissertation in Geology (40 credits)Dissertation in GeologyDissertation in Geology enables you to develop and apply a range of research and transferable skills in the planning,execution and reporting of an individual research project on a relevant topic in geology of your choice. The moduleprovides you with the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to work independently and effectively, meeting deadlinesand producing a professional product, in consultation with a supervisor.

GEO3241: GeoenGeoenvironmental Engineeringvironmental Engineering (20 credits)GeoenGeoenvironmental Engineeringvironmental Engineering prepares you to apply earth science principles to the exploration, extraction andmanagement of construction mineral resources. The module also provides an introduction to the principles andpractice of engineering geology associated with mineral operations.

You will select two of the following modules:

GEO3071: NaturNatural Hazardsal Hazards (20 credits)NaturNatural Hazardsal Hazards identifies the nature of geohazards and the relationships between hazards and risk to people. Themodule investigates the distribution, causes and management of a range of major geohazards. It will enable you todemonstrate your ability to research and evaluate information on geohazards both on an individual basis and in agroup scenario.

GEO3073: EnEnvironmental Changevironmental Change (20 credits)EnEnvironmental Changevironmental Change develops your knowledge and understanding of the nature of environmental change from thelast glacial period to the recent past. You will examine the evidence for change, consider potential causes, and analysethe spatial and temporal responses. The module explores the major changes of the Late Glacial, Holocene and recentperiods and examines the relative contibutions of forcing factors, such as climatic variability and anthropogenicactivity. In addition, the module critically considers the techniques and methodologies used in the reconstrcution ofenvironmental change.

GEO3077: WWetlandsetlands (20 credits)WWetlandsetlands explores the largest terrestrial carbon store; wetlands. The module studies the flora and fauna that haveadapted to and formed these environments. You will examine the sensitivity of these environments to climate changeand analyse the historic, current and future management strategies required to preserve these ecosystems.

Optional modules provide an element of choice within the programme curriculum. The availability of optional modulesmay vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that theavailability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected bytimetabling requirements.

Timetables

Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You canexpect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while wemake every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place onany day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.

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Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes aresubject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellationof, courses.

Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies, revisions to subject benchmarksstatements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right tomake variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

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Entry Criteria

Entry Requirements

Typical offer 120 UCAS Tariff points, normally to includeGeography, Geology, Environmental Science or a relatedsubject, plus GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 orabove (or equivalent).

Example Offers

Some examples of how you can achieve 120 UCAS Tariffpoints are detailed below.

• A LA Leevvelsels – BBB;

• BTEC Extended Diploma (BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTECor combination of BTECQCF qualifications)QCF qualifications) – Distinction, Distinction, Merit(DDM);

• Access to Higher Education DiplomaAccess to Higher Education Diploma – 45 credits atLevel 3, for example 24 credits at Distinction and21 credits at Merit. The required total can beattained from various credit combinations.

Please note, the above examples may differ from actualoffers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awardsmay also be accepted.

As long as you have a minimum of two A Levels (orequivalent), there is no maximum number ofqualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. Thisincludes additional qualifications such as the WelshBaccalaureate and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ),AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, andGeneral Studies AS or A Level awards.

For further information on how you can meet the entryrequirements, including details ofalternative qualifications, please visitwww.edgehill.ac.uk/offers.

EU students can get country-specific information aboutthe University's entry requirements and equivalentnational qualifications at www.edgehill.ac.uk/eu.

International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international for information on the entry criteria foroverseas applicants.

Are there any alternative ways to meet theentry requirements?

If you have the ability to study for a degree but lack thenecessary qualifications or confidence, our Fastrack:Preparation for Higher Education course could be foryou. This free, seven-week programme provides a greatopportunity to enhance your study skills and subjectknowledge and demonstrate that you are ready to studya particular subject with us, in lieu of achieving the UCASTariff points in the entry criteria.

Upon successful completion of a Fastrack course, you willbe well placed to progress onto a corresponding Edge HillUniversity degree, although additional entryrequirements may apply and the availability of specificprogrammes cannot be guaranteed. For moreinformation, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/fastrack.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Edge Hill University recognises learning gainedelsewhere, whether through academic credit andqualifications acquired from other relevant courses ofstudy or through recognition of an individual'sprofessional and employment experience (also referredto as 'experiential learning').

Previous learning that is recognised in this way may beused towards meeting the entry requirements for aprogramme and/or for exemption from part of aprogramme. It is your responsibility to make a claim forrecognition of prior learning. For guidance, please consultthe University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy andcontact the faculty in which you are interested instudying.

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Career Prospects

What are my career prospects?

A Physical Geography and Geology degree is recognisedby employers for the extensive range of transferable skillsthat graduates have including IT and communicationskills, project management, report writing, statisticalanalysis, group work and oral presentation skills. Theseskills are of great value to them and to you in your career.

Graduates find their way into a variety of careersincluding industry, geological exploration, environmentalmanagement, planning, environmental monitoring andconsultancy, the extractive and waste industries,conservation, environmental education, postgraduatestudy, teaching (further training required) and research.

How can I enhance my employability?

It is useful to consider, even before you apply, how youwill spend your time while studying and make the most ofyour university experience.

Optional, additional activities may be available on this

degree which could help to prepare you for a stimulatingand rewarding career. These include:

• Sandwich YSandwich Yearsears - you may have the opportunity toapply to complete a sandwich year placement,usually as the third year of a four year degree, andgain highly relevant work experience;

• ErErasmus+ and Studyasmus+ and Study AbroadAbroad - you may have theopportunity to apply to spend time studying orworking abroad, usually as the third year of a fouryear degree, enabling you to immerse yourself in adifferent culture;

• Language LLanguage Learningearning - you may be able to participatein Language Steps classes, delivered at the Edge HillLanguage Centre, as additional study.

Please note, the availability of these additional activitiescannot be guaranteed for all students. Depending onavailability and the number of students wanting toparticipate, there may be a competitive applicationprocess for sandwich year placements or studying abroadopportunities or you may be required to secure a relevantplacement yourself.

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Finance

Tuition Fees

If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will bejoining this undergraduate degree in academic year2018/19, tuition fees are still to be announced by theGovernment. You are advised to check this page regularlyand once the position has been confirmed we will updatethis information.

Tuition fees for international students enrolling on theprogramme in academic year 2018/19 are £11,800 perannum.

The University may administer a small inflationary rise intuition fees, in line with Government policy, insubsequent academic years as you progress through thecourse.

Financial Support

Subject to eligibility, UK and EU students can apply for aTuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the fullcost of tuition fees. UK and EU students may also beeligible to apply for additional funding to help with livingcosts.

For comprehensive information about the financialsupport available to eligible UK and EU students joiningthis programme in academic year 2018/19, together withdetails of how to apply for funding, please view ourMoney Matters 2018/19 guide at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfinance2018.

Financial support information for international studentscan be found at www.edgehill.ac.uk/international/fees.

Scholarships

Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships with acompetitive application process for prospective full-timeundergraduate students. These scholarships aren't linkedto academic success and celebrate determination, talentand achievement beyond your coursework, for instancein creativity, enterprise, ICT, performance, sport orvolunteering.

Additional scholarships, which you may qualify to receive,reward outstanding grades and are available to eligibleUK and EU students.

To find out more about scholarships, to assess youreligibility, and to meet some of our dedicated scholarshipwinners, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

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Apply

How to Apply

Apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyucas to find out moreabout the application process.

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us andformally enrol as a student, you will be subject to theprovisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions andpolicies which apply to our students. These are availableat www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

Visit Us

If you are considering applying to study at Edge Hill

University, the best way to gain an insight into studentlife is to discover our stunning campus for yourself byattending an open day. You can view dates and book yourplace at www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays.

Alternatively, if you are unable to attend an open day, youcan find out more about all of our events for prospectivestudents, including monthly campus tours,at www.edgehill.ac.uk/visitus.

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to explore our full range of degreesbefore you apply, you can order an undergraduateprospectus at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradprospectus.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about this programme or whatit's like to study at Edge Hill University, please contact:

• Course Enquiries

• Tel: 01695 657000

• Email: study@edgehill.ac.uk

International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk withany queries about overseas study.

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