Program Overview

Geology MSci Program

The Geology MSci program at University College London is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides a comprehensive education in geology, integrating field and laboratory skills with theoretical studies. The program is designed to equip students with a broad range of skills and knowledge, enabling them to pursue careers in geology and related fields.

Program Overview

The program includes studies of the nature of rocks and minerals, their mode of origin and environment of formation, the study of past life and palaeoenvironments, the physics and chemistry of the Earth, and major Earth processes such as plate tectonics and mountain building. The first three years of the program develop core skills and knowledge in geology, while the fourth year provides opportunities for specialization and advanced research.

Entry Requirements

• A levels: AAB, with preferred subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Geology/Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or Physics.
• IB Diploma: 36 points, with a total of 17 points in three higher-level subjects, including two sciences, and no higher-level score below 5.
• GCSEs: English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4.
• Contextual offer: BBB, with preferred subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Geology/Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or Physics.
• Equivalent qualifications: Access to HE Diploma, BTEC National Diploma, Cambridge Pre-U, Scottish Advanced Highers, and UAL Extended Diploma are also accepted.

Tuition Fees

• UK students: Ł9,790 (2026/27)
• International students: Ł42,700 (2026/27)

Program Structure

The program consists of four years of study, with the first three years developing core skills and knowledge in geology. The fourth year provides opportunities for specialization and advanced research, including an individual research project and advanced optional modules.

Teaching and Learning

The program uses a mixture of lectures, practical classes, field courses, directed reading, problem-orientated learning, private study, and tutorials to enable students to gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Field-based modules are included in all years, currently taking place in the UK, Spain, and Germany.

Assessment

Students are assessed by a combination of written examinations, practical examinations, coursework, independent project reports, and sometimes an oral examination.

Employability

The program provides a broad education in geology, integrating field and laboratory skills with theoretical studies. The strong emphasis on fieldwork provides a unique opportunity to develop independent and team skills, problem-solving abilities, and specific skills such as rock identification, fabric recognition, map-making, and the geometrical solving of complex three-dimensional structures.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Geological Society, and undergraduate students may join the Geological Society as a Candidate Fellow and can become a Fellow of the Society upon graduation.

Funding and Scholarships

Various funding options are available, including student loans, scholarships, and bursaries. UK students whose household income falls below a certain level may also be eligible for a non-repayable bursary or for certain scholarships.