University College London

Program Information

Degree Offered

Geoscience MSc

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The Geoscience MSc at UCL aims to provide a set of courses that suit each student's aspirations, background and experience. The MSc offers several pathways to ensure a coherent programme of study: Earth Systems Science; Micropalaeontology; Palaeobiology; Earth and Planetary Physics; Environment; and Hydrogeology.

The programme aims to integrate theoretical studies with essential practical skills in the Earth Sciences, both in the field and in the laboratory. Students develop the ability to work on group projects, prepare written reports, acquire oral skills and gain training in the methods of scientific research.

The Department of Earth Sciences at UCL is engaged in world-class research into the processes at work on and within the Earth and planets.

Graduate students benefit from our lively and welcoming environment and world-class facilities, which include the UK's only NASA Regional Planetary Image Facility and access to the University of London Observatory in north London.

The department also hosts the Aon Benfield UCL Hazard Research Centre, Europe's leading multidisciplinary hazard research centre, and engages in extensive collaborative work with the Royal Institution and the Natural History Museum.

DEGREE STRUCTURE
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of two core modules (30 credits), six optional modules (90 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

An exit-level Postgraduate Diploma is offered (120 credits).

Core Modules:
Research Methods
Project Proposal

Options:
Earth and Planetary Systems Science
Earth and Planetary Materials
Continental Magmatism
Physical Volcanology and Volcanic Hazard
Earthquake Seismology & Earthquake Hazard
Tectonic Geomorphology
Palaeoceanography
Palaeoclimatology
Hydrogeology and Groundwater Resources
Geodynamics

RELEVANT COURSES CAN ALSO BE CHOSEN FROM THE FOLLOWING:
Earth Sciences Department - 3rd year undergraduate courses
Geography Department
Royal Holloway, University of London

Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of approximately 10,000-12,000 words.

Teaching and Learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and laboratory and fieldwork exercises. Student performance is assessed through coursework, written assignments, unseen written examination and the dissertation.

Accreditation:

Accredited university

Eligibility Requirements:

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree in Geology, Geophysics or a relevant discipline, from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The programme is suitable for students with a background in geology, geophysics or a relevant discipline who want to prepare for research in the Earth Sciences and for entry into a PhD programme.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: Yes