Program Overview

Join a University ranked second in the UK for 'Earth systems and environmental sciences' research (THE analysis of REF 2021) with an excellent reputation for teaching and learning (UK top ten for Geology, which includes Geophysics, Complete University Guide 2023).

Learn about the physics that underpins the history, structure and dynamics of Earth systems, and how these relate to exploration for natural resources and environmental monitoring.

You will explore the inaccessible parts of Earths interior through a range of geophysical techniques and become immersed in hands-on science from the start.

Learn with experts whose research feeds directly into your studies at the cutting edge of scientific developments. Recent options have included Global Seismology, Near Surface Geophysics Fieldwork and Physical Volcanology. By your final year you'll be conducting your own independent research and exploring the questions that matter most to you.

Your third year is spent abroad studying at one of our partner universities overseas, where you'll study units comparable to those offered at Bristol. Recently, Earth Science students have been to North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. To find out more about studying abroad, visit Global Opportunities.

MSci courses allow you to invest in your skills development by studying more advanced material in greater depth during your final year, preparing you for further research or boosting your career opportunities.

You will gain plenty of hands-on experience, with over 40 days of fieldwork both in the UK and overseas, the cost of which is included in your tuition fee. Field trips are a huge part of why our school community is so close-knit, giving you the chance to get to know your course mates and staff while honing your practical skills.

The skills developed throughout your studies are highly valued by employers, from scientific and technical skills including coding, modelling, lab skills and data analysis, to transferable skills such as communication, creativity and resilience.