geology & geophysics - university of leeds

School of Earth & EnvironmentFACULTY OF ENVIRONMENT

Geology & GeophysicsUndergraduateDegrees 2012

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1 Welcome from Head of School 2 Choosing the right degree for you 4 Study abroad 5 Your future 6 Geological Sciences 8 Geophysical Sciences 11 Fieldwork 12 Information for applicants 14 Other degrees we offer 15 Campus life 16 Why you’ll love Leeds

Thank you for considering the School of Earth and Environment at the University of Leeds as a place to study for your degree. We are a strong and dynamic department at a popular and prestigious university with an excellent reputation for world-class research and innovative teaching.As a School we offer a broad range of programmes investigating the whole earth system from deep core to the upper atmosphere, from the evolution of life to future climate change, and from hydrocarbon exploration to sustainable development.

Whatever your subject background, you will find our programmes exciting and accessible, addressing the many grand challenges facing the world in the 21st century. I hope you will find all the information you need in this brochure, or on our website www.see.leeds.ac.uk, but if you do need further assistance please contact our Admissions Office who will be happy to help.

We look forward to meeting you!

PROFESSOR ANDY DOUGILLHead of School

WHY STUDY GEOLOGY OR GEOPHYSICS?

Earth scientists study every aspect of the Earth – its molten core, its oceans and its highest mountains. Their work contributes to our understanding of our planet and the environment in which we live. They look back across four billion years to the earliest rocks on Earth, and study active volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis to understand what may happen in the future. They find out how ore deposits and oil fields form, and explore remedies for human pollution of soil and water.

Taking account of new discoveries, our courses are firmly based in good science and offer you opportunities to apply your practical scientific skills. We have an exceptionally broad group of specialist geoscience academic staff who will bring their exciting research into your learning experience, whatever your particular interests.

CONTENTS WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL OF EARTH AND ENVIRONMENT

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COURSE HIGHLIGHTS

Part of the appeal of studying a geology or geophysics degree at Leeds is the sheer breadth and the exciting places that it can take you to, both literally and as part of your academic and career development plans. The following pages contain information about the programmes we offer, including some highlights that make our courses truly distinctive.

• All our Geology and Geophysics programmes at Leeds are accredited by the Geological Society, the national body representing and regulating professional geological organizations. Leeds graduates therefore gain a degree from an accredited course, which allows fast-track progression towards obtaining Chartered Geologist status as a working geoscientist.

• We have the best-established year abroad programme in geosciences in the UK, leading to prestigious MGeol and MGeophys (International) degrees. Students have the choice of 13 partner campuses in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Once you are accepted on the programme you are guaranteed a year abroad provided you maintain a 2:1 average.

• We attract industry sponsorship from major companies such as BP and Shell to help support your studies, which last year included two Technical Scholarships worth £10,000, and fifteen scholarships worth £2,000. The School also offers prizes and awards each year for overall academic performance and for those students who show a marked improvement year-on-year.

• We have made major investments in our teaching facilities. Students are housed in a fantastic new £23 million building, and have access to a ground-breaking £200k Earth Visualization Laboratory, brand new microscopes and a 3-D suite.

• The School is a leading research centre attracting a world-class international community of scientists. In a research-intensive university like Leeds you are guaranteed to interact with staff at the cutting edge of research world-wide, who will bring this into their teaching.

• We have excellent employment statistics. The specialist pathways through our degrees suit interests in petroleum, minerals and the environment and are supported by close links with industrial partners. This ensures that the education we deliver prepares you for employment in a range of geoscience sectors.

• Our year in industry degrees are an excellent route to employment, as is our MSc Track; the School offers a place on an appropriate 1-year MSc degree to every graduate who achieves at least a 2:1 degree.

• We have an excellent field work programme with accommodation and travel paid for by the School for all compulsory field classes. Students and staff all love fieldwork, we have a great time wherever we go – to the sunshine of Cyprus, the dramatic cliffs of western Ireland or closer to home unravelling the many geological delights of Yorkshire!

• Our teaching has consistently been assessed as being of the highest quality, citing benefits to our students such as the breadth of the curriculum, the opportunity for interdisciplinary study and our graduate employment rates.

• Each student has allocated a dedicated personal tutor throughout their time with us. There are also two pastoral support advisers and a dedicated student support manager on hand should you need them.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DEGREE FOR YOU CHOOSING THE RIGHT DEGREE FOR YOU

Many students are keen to add value to their degree and our range of options can help you do just this.

CHOOSING A BSc OR MGeol/ MGeophys DEGREE

Our 3-year BSc degrees provide an ideal preparation both for further study or direct entry into the world of work. Four-year BSc options add real value with a year in industry or a year in Europe (see below).

The MGeol and MGeophys degrees are our 4-year Integrated Masters scheme. Students enjoy the unique opportunity of spending their third year in Australia, Canada, USA or New Zealand, and take Masters-level modules during Year 4, in order to achieve the Integrated Masters degree. These programmes are ideal if you wish to broaden your academic horizons and enter PhD research or professional employment at a high level after your graduation. Leeds University was the first to introduce the international study year abroad in geology and geophysics and we have many years’ experience of working with internationally renowned institutions in North America and Australasia.

It is possible for students on the BSc degrees to transfer onto the Integrated Masters scheme at the end of Year 1, subject to academic performance and availability. Many universities offer 4-year UK-based M-level degrees in geology, but at Leeds we believe that you can add more value doing an extra year abroad than an extra year in the UK. Alternatively, you can enhance your employment prospects by taking a four-year BSc with a year in industry or in Europe, or you can follow our MSc track (see overleaf p. 6). We consider this the best way to make sure that you get real benefit from doing a fourth year of study on a university course.

BSc DEGREES WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY

Once you are at Leeds and studying either a BSc Geological Sciences or BSc Geophysical Sciences degree, you can opt to take a year out to gain work experience in industry. You will spend your third year of study in industry and then return to Leeds to study the Year 3 modules appropriate to your degree scheme. During the year out you will gain valuable hands-on experience whilst also earning a salary. The School will support you in finding a suitable placement, in the UK or overseas, and your tutor and dedicated work placement advisers can guide you during your studies if you decide the year in industry option is right for you. Recent placements include mining companies abroad, engineering geology consultancies, and geophysical service companies in the oil industry.

BSc DEGREES WITH A YEAR IN EUROPE

Spending a year studying at a University in Europe in a foreign language is a significant challenge, but will broaden your horizons and is an impressive addition to your CV. If you would like to study in Europe you may have to demonstrate proficiency in the appropriate language before you are accepted onto the scheme. However you can be educated mainly in English at some partners. When you return to Leeds you will study the Year 3 modules appropriate to your degree scheme.

ACCESS TO FIRST-CLASS TEACHING FACILITIES: In 2010 our staff and students moved into a new £23 million building with state of the art facilities for both teaching and research, bringing together all the School’s departments under one roof for the first time.

“ As a Geophysics student at Leeds, I was given the opportunity to undertake industry-related modules and to be part of cutting-edge research projects in various environments worldwide”.Badr W. Al-Rumaih, Geophysical Sciences (BSc)

STUDY ABROAD WITH AN INTEGRATED MASTERS DEGREE(MGeol/MGeophys degrees)

These Integrated Masters degrees will appeal to applicants who expect to achieve the highest A-level grades. They offer you an outstanding opportunity to study overseas and the award of an enhanced degree that will boost your career prospects. If you are accepted onto one of our MGeol or MGeophys degrees you will study alongside the BSc students for the first two years and spend your third year at one of our partner universities overseas in North America or Australasia.

Current partners:– University of California (San Diego,

Santa Barbara, UCLA or Davis)– Colorado School of Mines– Purdue University, Indiana – University of Alberta– Queens University, Ontario– University of Western Ontario– University of Adelaide– Australian National University, Canberra– Victoria University, Wellington.

The international year abroad is a wonderful opportunity to focus on a topic of study which interests you and take courses that may not be available in the UK. When you return to take your final year in Leeds you take only Masters-level modules, appropriate to the MGeol or MGeophys award, making our degrees compliant with the Bologna Process. Our MGeol/MGeophys graduates are highly regarded by employers for their teamwork, problem solving, IT and data handling and manipulation skills, as well as for the breadth of experience that they have acquired as part of their year abroad. The majority of graduates go on to successful careers in industry or with government bodies, or pursue PhD research as the first step to a career in academia.

The MGeol and MGeophys programmes have a limited number of places and the entry

requirements are high. We are looking for AAA (or equivalent) and we will normally invite you to interview as part of the selection process. However, if you do not achieve the AAA grades, we will automatically reserve a place for you on the relevant BSc degree course, provided you meet these entry requirements.

OUR TEACHING METHODS

All of our degrees have a modular structure. Each year you will study courses worth a total of 120 credits, typically a combination of compulsory and optional modules. We think carefully about the balance between the two, to ensure that we combine opportunities for you to specialise in topics that you find most interesting, with fundamental ideas and skills required by graduates of the discipline.

As a student at Leeds you benefit from a wide range of teaching methods. We combine lectures with different forms of interactive, small-group teaching to ensure that you graduate with the right mix of knowledge and skills for a successful career, whatever you choose. Teaching methods may include: lectures and discussion-based seminars, practical classes, tutorials (providing individual feedback), laboratory work, and computer-based practical work.

THE MSc TRACK

An excellent way to improve your employment prospects even further is to take a vocational postgraduate degree (MSc) after graduation. The School offers a place on an appropriate 1-year MSc degree to every graduate who achieves at least a 2:1 degree and meets any programme-specific prerequisites.

We have a comprehensive range of postgraduate degrees and maintain close links with industry. This has proved an effective route to high-level employment and almost 100% of our MSc graduates have gone into relevant employment in the geosciences over the past few years.

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PREPARING YOU FOR WORK

The School of Earth and Environment prepares you for a wide range of employment opportunities, refining your academic skills and also developing the personal skills expected by business and industry. You will regularly give presentations and work in teams, practising your communication and problem-solving skills, and using analytical and critical thinking to work on real-life case histories. Our continuous interchange of ideas helps us ensure that our graduates are qualified to take up the varied career opportunities that are available, and are well-prepared to take on additional training through our MSc degree programmes.

You will also benefit from the skilled and highly effective Careers Service at Leeds. Their excellent reputation ensures that their recruitment fairs and events are attended by employers from all sectors of business and industry. The School’s own recruitment initiatives are well supported by staff throughout the year and we have close links with industry through our industrial placement programme. Leeds has also introduced the innovative ‘Leeds for Life’ scheme, where you will be given on-line support for many career-enhancing opportunities.

LEEDS FOR LIFE

Leeds for Life is a special personal development scheme just for University of Leeds students; an opportunity not widely available at other universities. It is designed to help you get the most out of university life from day one and to prepare you for the future. It will help you identify opportunities to develop your skills, and provides you with an online ‘living CV’ so you can understand the value of your skills and knowledge and articulate the benefits of your University of Leeds experience.

WHAT 2009 GEOLOGY AND GEOPHYSICS GRADUATES DID NEXT

As a graduate of this School you will always be in demand among companies that value team work skills, independence, numeracy and scientific literacy. You’ll enjoy rewarding careers around the world in the petroleum and mining industries and in environmental consultancy. Our employment statistics are comparable with, or better than, any similar department in the UK with graduates entering many varied careers.

Our geology and geophysics graduates have gone into some exciting careers six months after graduating.

Typical roles include:– Engineering geology – Geoenvironmental careers – Hydrocarbon/petroleum industry – Mineral exploration – Hydrogeology – Contaminated land – Waste management – Forensic science – Teaching.


FAST FACT: All programmes are accredited by the Geological Society of London helping graduates to obtain Chartered Geologist status as working geoscientists.

STUDY ABROAD WITH AN INTEGRATED MASTERS DEGREE

“ My year abroad was an unmissable experience. I made new friends and was able to start preparing for a PhD.” Pete Bloxham, Geological Sciences International (MGeol)

YOUR FUTURE

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(Graduate Destinations 2009, six months after graduation)

EMPLOYED (40%)

UNEMPLOYED (10%)

FURTHER STUDY (48%)

OTHER (2%)

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GEOLOGICAL SCIENCES

GEOLOGICAL SCIENCES BSc [3 Years]GEOLOGICAL SCIENCES (INTERNATIONAL) MGeol [4 Years]

These two broad-based degrees emphasise the fundamental processes which underlie the development of the Earth’s crust, the formation of rocks and the evolution of life on Earth. Our programmes are regularly updated to give you a thorough grounding in modern applied geology, including petroleum and mineral resources and engineering and environmental geology. You can enhance your employability even further by following one of four pathways to create a more specialised degree.

Pathway 1 PetroleumThis pathway was created in response to the particular needs of the oil industry who demonstrate their high regard for our courses by sponsoring up to 20 overseas students each year. Students on this route concentrate their studies on the most relevant topics for the petroleum and hydrocarbon industry – structural geology, sedimentology, geophysics and petroleum geoscience.

Pathway 2 GeologyThe Geology pathway is an ideal choice for students who want to study the complete range of processes that have shaped our planet. It provides a broad geological education suitable for general employment or further study.

Pathway 3 MineralsIf you are interested in a career in the minerals sector, such as exploration, mining geology or quarry management, this pathway will enable you to select the most appropriate modules for this specialist route.

Pathway 4 Environmental This pathway develops aspects of environmental geology; it is recommended for students intending to pursue a career in environmental and engineering geology, or those considering working for a geoconsultancy company.

Year 1In Year 1 you receive a thorough introduction to Geological Sciences, assuming no previous knowledge. If you have A-level geology you may be familiar with some of this material, but you will learn much that is new. You will also spend a lot of time doing practical work on field classes or in our state-of-the-art Earth Visualisation Laboratory using maps, microscopes, rocks and fossil specimens. The main field course is a week in south Wales where you work in teams to learn the basic skills of a field geologist. At the end of the year you will go to the north of Scotland to develop your geological mapping skills.

Year 1Compulsory (80-100 credits)

Natural HazardsGeology 1 Geology 2 Geology Tutorials Computing and Data Analysis Chemistry for Earth and Environmental Scientists (if Chemistry A-level not taken) Maths for Earth and Environmental Scientists (if A/AS-level Maths not taken)

Optional (20-40 credits)

Vertebrate Evolution Atmosphere of Planet Earth Environmental Politics and Policy Vibration and Waves Computers and Programming in Geosciences Geological Origins and Occurrences of Gold in the British Isles Introduction to Meteorology and Weather Forecasting

GEOLOGICAL SCIENCES

FAST FACT: Our student society RocSoc won the best departmental society and was short-listed for Best Society Overall, 2010.

Year 2In Year 2 you further develop your knowledge and skills in the Earth Sciences and have the chance to work on an individual project. At Easter you visit Ireland to work on sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. In mid May (after Year 2 exams) you can begin the field work for your final year independent project, completing it by the end of June, so you can spend the summer vacation working or travelling. The range of topics is linked to staff expertise and in recent years has included all parts of the British Isles, plus locations in the Alps, Pyrenees and Greece. A career skills module helps you with your CV and prepares you for interviews.

Year 2Compulsory (120 credits)

Fundamentals of Geophysics Basin Evolution Chemistry of the Earth Deformation Processes Geology Field Course and Map Skills Hydrocarbon and Mineral Resources Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology Mineralogy Palaeoecology, Palaeobiology and Evolution Research and Career Skills Sedimentary Processes

Final YearStudents following the Geological Sciences (MGeol) programme spend their third year overseas in the partner university and then return to take a final year of Masters-level modules. The main component of the final year for students on Geological Sciences (BSc) is the independent project, with field work in the summer after the year abroad. The residential field class and the wide range of optional modules will be tailored to your needs, depending on which pathway you have chosen and what you have studied abroad.


Independent Field Project Field classes relevant to Petroleum, Environmental Geology or Minerals Specialist Track Choose at least 3 modules from:Mountain Belt Processes Plate Tectonics and Geodynamics Past Global Environmental Systems Basin Dynamics and Petroleum Systems

Choose up to 4 modules from:

Advanced Sedimentology and its Applications Advances in Palaeontology Earth Observations from Space Earth Systems Science: Biogeochemical Cycles Engineering Geology Exploration Seismics Geology into Schools Higher Temperature Processes in the Earth Isotope Geochemistry Ore deposits and their Exploration Physical and Chemical Hydrogeology Strategic Energy Issues Structural Geology Volcanic Processes Intermediate Mathematics for Environmental and Geophysical Scientists Oceanography Contaminated Land Studies

CareersGeology graduates are highly regarded by employers for their teamwork, problem solving, IT and data handling and manipulation skills. The pathway system through our Geological Sciences degree enables our students to focus their studies towards a favoured aspect of the discipline, acquiring skills in particular areas of geology and thereby maximizing their chances of employability in major geoscience sectors. The specialist pathways are supported by close links with industrial partners, ensuring that the education we deliver prepares our students for employment in a range of geoscience sectors.


FAST FACT: For mountaineer Kenton Cool, the three years he spent studying geology at Leeds were the stepping stones to the roof of the world. Kenton, who graduated in 1994, has since reached the summit of Everest several times and has pioneered major new climbs on peaks from Alaska to the Himalayas.

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GEOPHYSICAL SCIENCES BSc [3 Years]GEOPHYSICAL SCIENCES (INTERNATIONAL) MGeophys [4 Years]

Geophysics is the study of the Earth through the application of physical principles. Geophysicists tackle a wide range of subjects, often closely linked to geological data. They may explore for hydrocarbons and mineral deposits, monitor health hazards, investigate the interior of the Earth and other planets, measure the movements of the Earth’s plates and assess the impact of human activities on the environment.

Year 1In Year 1 you will develop a solid knowledge of geology, physics and applied mathematics. You take introductory geophysics modules, as well as modules relating to geology and others from the departments of physics and mathematics. The programme features a one-week field class in south Wales at Easter where you will work in student teams to learn the basic skills of a field geoscientist. After Year 1, you can choose to take optional modules which can change the emphasis of the programme, taking them in the direction of physics or geosciences.


Fundamentals of Geophysics Geology 1 for Geophysicists Geology 2 Intermediate Mathematics for Environmental and Geophysical Scientists Introductory Physics Vibrations and Waves Computers and Programming in Geosciences Physics Laboratory

Year 2At the beginning of Year 2 you will make geophysical observations during a field course in north Wales. Second-year modules such as time series analysis and numerical methods provide a solid foundation for more

advanced modules in exploration seismics, gravity, magnetics and geoelectric techniques. At the end of Year 2 you spend two weeks collecting geophysical data in earnest. Recent locations have been Lanzarote, Hungary and the Caribbean Island of Montserrat. You may choose to collect data for your Independent Research Project submitted in Year 3.


Applied Geophysics Tectonophysics Mathematics for Geophysical Scientists Numerical Methods and Statistics Time Series Analysis and Digital Signal Processing

Optional (40 credits)

Choose from:Deformation Processes Electromagnetism Quantum Physics and Relativity Sedimentary ProcessesAtmosphere and Ocean Dynamics Basin Evolution Hydrocarbon and Mineral Resources Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology Oceanography Mineralogy

Final YearStudents following the Geophysical Sciences (MGeophys) programme spend their third year overseas in the partner university and then return to take a final year of Masters-level modules. Students submit their independent research project which is either based on fieldwork in Year 2 or on research under supervision of a member of staff. Students also study a number of core and optional geophysics modules.

GEOPHYSICAL SCIENCES

“ This is seriously an awesome department. The research is excellent and the course helps expand your horizons – literally! I’m writing this from New Zealand on my year abroad!” Luke Jackson, Geophysical Sciences International (MGeophys)

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL – ANJA’S EYEWITNESS ACCOUNT

Not many people get a chance to experience a volcanic eruption close-up, but PhD student Anja Schmidt found herself in exactly the right place at the right time when she visited Iceland shortly after the first eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. “When I visited Iceland at the end of March, it was a spectacular, tourist friendly eruption. I went to the site twice and it was stunning to see the eruption so close. Volcanic eruptions are one of the most amazing events nature has on offer. I saw fountains of lava coming out of the volcanic fissure and, on top of that, we could observe the Northern Lights most of that week – it doesn’t get more stunning than observing a volcanic eruption under a Northern Lights-filled sky!”Anja spent a year in Leeds doing Geology as part of the Erasmus scheme, but was excited by the interdisciplinary research opportunities in the School and returned to do a PhD combining volcanology and atmospheric science, studying the dispersal of aerosols from Icelandic volcanos.





Independent Field Project Global Geophysics Global Seismology Inverse Theory Practical Geophysics Research Seminar in geophysics

Optional (40 credits)

Advanced Sedimentology and its Applications Basin Dynamics and Petroleum Systems Cosmology Engineering Geology Geoelectrics Methods in Statistics Modelling with Fluids Physical and Chemical Hydrogeology Strategic Energy Issues Structural Geology Volcanic Processes

CareersGraduates of this School are highly regarded by employers and by other universities for the skills and breadth of experience they acquire during their studies. Many go on to successful careers in industry or with government bodies, take a vocational MSc or go on to a PhD as the first step to a career in academic research.

Geophysicists are in demand in industry – in manufacturing, oil and mineral exploration, as well as environmental assessment and remediation. The skills and numeracy of graduates are highly valued in research, financial and governmental environments, and in higher education institutions.

FIELDWORK

FAST FACT: Leeds University has the largest group of specialist geophysicists in the UK, with research-led teaching in all areas of geophysics.

AN EXCELLENT FIELDWORK PROGRAMME

Fieldwork is essential to all earth and environment programmes, and is one of the most enjoyable and sociable parts of the course for students and staff alike. Field classes are intensive but very rewarding, and they give you a chance to collect data and to develop and test hypotheses from your own observations. Programmes at Leeds include a variety of field course destinations in both the UK and abroad. Recent field trips have included Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Cyprus, Lanzarote, New Zealand and many locations across Yorkshire.

At the end of Year 2, students on the Geological Sciences programme undertake a six-week period in the field gathering data for an independent project report which is worth a third of your final year assessment. The School starts its exams period early, so you can get out

into the field to complete your mapping work between mid May and the end of June. You can then spend the summer vacation travelling or earning some money.

Geophysics students will take a two-week trip at the end of Year 2 (which was to Lanzarote in 2011). You may choose to use this as a data source for your final year project or do a research project under the supervision of staff.

For all compulsory taught field classes throughout the programme, the School of Earth and Environment at Leeds covers the full cost of travel and accommodation. Students may be asked to contribute a modest sum towards the cost of meals if they are provided, but your accommodation is often self-catered. Residential fieldwork utilises a range of types of accommodation including youth hostels, hotels and self catering flats.

“ During my third year project I used electromag apparatus (basically, a big metal detector!) to delineate the extent of a groundwater contaminant plume. Fieldwork gives you a real sense that you’re doing something relevant, and is a genuine boost to the theory you’ve studied.”Adam Booth, BSc Geophysical Sciences

Using our 3D Visualisation Suite for seismic image interpretation.

Real time display of world seismicity beamed direct into the school.


INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS

Mature studentsApplications from mature applicants are welcomed and receive individual consideration, taking account of existing academic qualifications, relevant experience in the workplace or elsewhere and personal motivation for study. Prospective applicants are invited to contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for advice and guidance before submitting their application to UCAS.

International studentsThe School of Earth and Environment has a long tradition of welcoming students from Europe and a wide variety of countries around the globe. Students are often attracted to our degrees by the strong vocational pathways on offer, such as our petroleum or minerals pathways, which enhance your career prospects. All our students benefit from the large and diverse community of cultures studying and working within a premier Russell-Group University. Find out more at www.leeds.ac.uk/international

Open daysThe University holds Open Days in June and October each year. These events are an ideal opportunity for anybody interested in our courses to find out more about life in Leeds and to visit the University and department. In addition, all applicants offered a place on one of our programmes will be invited to one of our Post-applicant Open Days which may include a short, informal interview with a member of teaching staff. We encourage you to visit the department to find out more about our degrees first-hand from staff and students and to ask any questions you may have.

AccommodationThe University guarantees a place in accommodation for single, first-year students, who make Leeds their Firm or Insurance choice and meet the application deadline. The accommodation can be catered or self-catered, and many of the rooms are en-suite, but all rooms are competitively priced. For details of all our accommodation visit www.leeds.ac.uk/accommodation

Fees and student supportPlease refer to www.leeds.ac.uk/yourfinances for the latest information on fees and student finance.

INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS

How to applyAll applications should be made online via UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. If you are currently attending school or college, your tutors will be able to guide you through the application process. If not, you can apply online independently via the UCAS website.

If you are applying from the EU (excluding the UK), or elsewhere in the world, and your school or college is not registered with UCAS, you can also apply online independently via UCAS. www.ucas.ac.uk

Typical entry requirementsThe typical offer for each programme is given below; all options exclude General Studies. For alternative qualifications please refer to our website, or contact our Admissions Office staff. Email: [email protected] www.see.leeds.ac.uk/admissions

Access to LeedsThe University of Leeds recognises that not all applicants are equally able to demonstrate their talents and potential through academic grades alone. Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which gives special consideration to students who have the potential to excel at the University, but whose personal and educational circumstances may have affected their ability to succeed in pre-university examinations. More details of the Access to Leeds programme are available at www.leeds.ac.uk/A2L


OPEN DAYS: You can register for updates and we will send you all the latest news by email: www.leeds.ac.uk/opendays

This year’s Open Days are 24 June, 25 June and 8 October 2011.

Degree A-Levels Scottish Highers IBGeological Sciences BScF600

ABB including two from mathematics, physics, chemistry, geology, geography, biology, environmental studies.

Normally ABBBB 34 points including 16 at higher level.

Geological Sciences (International) MGeolF601

AAA including two from mathematics, physics, chemistry, geology, geography, biology, environmental studies.

Normally AAAAA 38 points including 18 at higher level.

Students who apply for the 4-year Geological Sciences (MGeol) degree but do not achieve the higher entry requirements, will automatically be reserved a place on our 3-year Geological Sciences (BSc) degree (providing you meet the ABB entry requirements).

Geophysical Sciences BScF640

ABB including mathematics and physics.

Normally ABBBB 34 points including 16 at higher level.

Geophysical Sciences (International) MGeophysF641

AAA including mathematics and physics.

Normally AAAAA 38 points including 18 at higher level.

Students who apply for the 4-year Geophysical Sciences (MGeophys) degree but do not achieve the higher entry requirements, will automatically be reserved a place on our 3-year Geophysical Sciences (BSc) degree (providing you meet the ABB entry requirements).

“ People from all walks of life have found a niche for themselves here at Leeds. I have enjoyed it here so much, that I am staying on to do the MRes Earth and Atmosphere course, specialising in volcano seismology.”Emma Doyle, MGeophys Geophysical Sciences.

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A 21st CENTURY LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Leeds is one of the UK’s most popular universities, attracting students from around the world who recognise the excellence of its academic standards and the quality of learning on offer here.

The University sits on a single campus just a ten-minute walk to the city centre. The School of Earth and Environment is located right at the heart of the campus in a state-of-the-art new £23m facility – it couldn’t be more convenient for access to libraries, lecture theatres, the students union, student services and accommodation.

If you study at Leeds you’ll have access to some of the best University facilities in the country. We have one of the largest libraries in the UK, with more than 4,000 study places if you need somewhere quiet to work. There are also two thousand PCs across campus that you can use (with some computer clusters open 24 hours a day). Alternatively, if you have your own laptop, our free high-speed Wi-Fi network covers most of the campus.

STATE-OF-THE-ART SPORTS FACILITIES

There is a flourishing sports scene at Leeds and we have more sports clubs than any other university in the UK. There are three sporting facilities on campus, the most recent of which is the Edge. Opened in May 2010, this £12m swimming pool and sports centre hosts the biggest fitness suite of any UK university with state-of-the-art equipment. If you live in University halls of residence, you automatically receive an Edge Club membership.

AN AWARD-WINNING UNION

Leeds University Union is a great place to learn new skills, make friends, have fun, and solve any problems you may have. The union is run by students, for students and is home to over 270 clubs and societies that you can get involved in whilst at Leeds. So, whether your passion is rock climbing, scuba diving, windsurfing or skydiving you’re bound to find something for you.

OTHER DEGREES WE OFFER

RELATED DEGREE PROGRAMMES

If you choose to study in the School of Earth and Environment you will be joining one of the largest and most vibrant departments in the UK. Experts within the School study the Earth from its core to the atmosphere, with expertise ranging from geophysics and surface processes to atmospheric science, climate change and environmental sustainability. Leeds is in fact, the only university that has brought the complete range of disciplines from geology and geophysics, environmental science, meteorology and climate science, to environmental social science together under one banner.

Therefore, in addition to the Geological and Geophysical Sciences courses listed, we also offer the following degrees at undergraduate-level. Please see our complementary Environment 2012 brochure for more information on:

Environment and Business BA [3 Years]This degree combines the study of environmental issues such as sustainability and corporate responsibility, with sound business and management practices.This course will be of interest to students thinking about a career in environmental consultancy, business and management, and corporate social responsibility. Many of our graduates have also become environmental officers in non-governmental and governmental agencies, in the UK and abroad, and work as environmental officers in business.

Environmental Science BSc [3 Years]Environmental Science MEnv [4 Years]This degree is an interdisciplinary subject which studies the interactions between the physical, chemical and biological components of the environment. You will cover issues such as climate change, biodiversity, water and air quality, and sustainable development.Graduates of this degree are well-placed to take up careers in environmental consultancy and may also join or lead specialist teams in environmental protection or regulation.

Meteorology and Climate Science BSc [3 Years]Meteorology and Climate Science MEnv [4 Years]Understanding and prediction of the Earth’s atmosphere is a matter of extraordinary national and international importance and the need for knowledge and practical skills in this area is increasing. Climate change, air pollution and severe meteorological events are among the most crucial environmental issues of the day.Graduates enter fields where scientific competence and understanding are essential. Typical career destinations include industrial and public sector organisations related to meteorology, pollution and regulation such as the Met Office or environmental consultancy. Knowledge of climate change and meteorological issues is also important in the armed services and insurance sector.

Sustainability and Environmental Management BSc [3 Years]Sustainability and Environmental Management MEnv [4 Years]This degree is designed to sit at the interface between human activity and the environment. It explores the environmental, economic and social implications of the decisions that we make and the strategies we use to find suitable solutions to environmental problems.Graduates are well-equipped for careers in a variety of areas including, governmental and non-governmental organisations, commerce, business management and consultancy.

Please see our complementary Geography 2012 brochure for more information on:

Geography – Geology BScThis degree is run jointly by the School of Geography and School of Earth and Environment. It combines the study of physical geography and geosciences, with a particular focus on earth surface processes, geomorphology, sedimentary deposits, atmospheric and oceanic processes, and how these might be influenced by global climate change.This course can open up a wide variety of career paths – employment opportunities exist within conservation, geological consultancy and land/water management, among others.

The Brotherton Library: one of the leading academic research libraries in the UK.

The Edge: the £12m facility has a fantastic 25 metre, eight-lane swimming pool.

LIFE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE LEEDS

Leeds is one of the most popular university destinations in the UK with a large student population, making it a thriving, lively place to live and learn.

The city combines the buzz of a big city with easy access to beautiful countryside. As the ‘capital’ of the Yorkshire and Humberside region, Leeds is a major centre for shopping, arts, sport, leisure, entertainment and nightlife. In fact, students enjoy their time here so much that 1 in 4 graduates decide to stay!

An Entertaining CityLeeds is arguably most famous for its lively music and club scene with some of the world’s biggest bands playing regularly in the city’s many music venues, including the Live at Leeds music festival held every May Day weekend and the northern venue of the V Festival.

A Cultural CityThe City’s Museum and Art Gallery, and the Henry Moore Institute, are world-renowned, and the Leeds Armouries collection is housed in a spectacular new building on the edge of the city centre, alongside our Clarence Dock residencies. However, if film’s more your thing, Leeds boasts two independent cinemas, a city-centre VUE cinema and an international film festival, which hits town each November. The city also has three professional theatres for drama-lovers including the acclaimed productions at the West Yorkshire Playhouse, additional theatres for amateur productions and outdoor venues in the summer offering plays, opera and other entertainment.

A Sporting City2km north of the city centre is Headingley, a major student area, with two rugby teams and the famous home of Yorkshire County Cricket. Football fans will find Leeds United’s Elland Road ground close by and there are plenty of golf courses and sports facilities at your disposal too.

An Accessible CityLeeds is well served by affordable, frequent local transport and has extensive coach and rail services connecting Leeds with the rest of the UK. London and Edinburgh are two and a half hours away by rail and if you are travelling further afield, Leeds Bradford airport provides many flights to major international destinations. We also have secure bike racks for those students who prefer to cycle to the University campus.

A Historic CityThe countryside is probably one of the first things you think of when you hear the word ‘Yorkshire’, but it’s certainly not all it’s famous for. This region is steeped in history and has more than 100 miles of coastline to explore. Leeds’ 4000 hectares of public open spaces include seven major parks, many with nearby architectural and historical attractions like Harewood House, Kirkstall Abbey and Temple Newsam. Leeds is, of course, within easy reach of the Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire Moors and the Peak District, ideal for outdoor activities such as walking, horse riding, climbing and mountain biking.

“ This was the last University I visited and I came away from the open day knowing that Leeds was where I wanted to study – the whole place had a real buzz about it”. Andy Hitchcock, BSc Geological Sciences 2008.

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Undergraduate Admissions OfficeSchool of Earth and Environment

Tel: +44 (0)113 343 6719/6261Email: [email protected]

www.see.leeds.ac.uk/admissions

LegalFor current information please visit our website at www.see.leeds.ac.uk/admissions

The University endeavours to ensure that the information contained in this brochure is accurate at the date of publication and does not accept liability for any inaccuracies contained within it. Where circumstances change outside the reasonable control of the University, we reserve the right to change or cancel parts of, or entire, programmes of study or services at any time without liability, even after students have registered at the University. The University’s contract with its students does not confer third party benefits for the purposes of the Contract (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999.

If you require this brochure in an alternative format please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Officer in the School of Earth & Environment.

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