Program Overview

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Introduction to the Computational Geoscience MSc Program

The Masters in Computational Geoscience explores how we model the natural world and the environment around us, including the processes that create them. This program develops applied data science and modeling skills, enabling students to address complex real-world challenges and support decision-making in geoscience fields.

Why this Program

• This program is one of very few in the UK to focus on computational modeling in geosciences and is unique to Scotland.
• The specifically designed courses provide both an introduction to earth sciences and the mathematical foundations needed to succeed in this program, supporting both science and engineering students, as well as students from earth, environmental, and planetary sciences.
• The program is highly applied and has been developed in consultation with industry to ensure graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet global demands for professionals in this field.
• Research-led teaching is delivered by academics at the forefront of debates in geomorphology, geomagnetism, geophysics, plate tectonics, and structural and reservoir modeling within the earth systems science field.
• Students learn to solve specific applied questions using a range of coding languages, including Python.
• Access to extensive computer laboratories and the latest software packages is provided.
• Project work and continuous assessment help develop professional skills, including project management, communication, and presentation skills.
• The School of Geographical and Earth Sciences has an Athena Swan Silver Award, demonstrating the school's commitment to supporting women in scientific studies and careers and improving the working environment for all.

Program Structure

The MSc in Computational Geoscience is delivered predominantly through laboratory practical classes, computing workshops, and fieldwork, but also includes lectures, seminars, and tutorials.

• Students take six core courses (60 credits) in semester one and five core courses (60 credits) in semester two.
• Over the summer, students undertake a research project in an area of interest to them, supervised by a member of the MSc teaching staff.
• The majority of the courses in the MSc are assessed continuously through coursework, including analytical reports, and oral and poster presentations, designed to reflect real working environments.

Core Courses

Semester One (60 credits)

• Academic and Professional Skills for GES PGT
• Introduction to Earth Science
• Principles of GIS
• Theoretical and Applied Climatology
• Numerical Foundations of Geodynamics

Semester Two (60 credits)

• Modelling Water Environments
• Topographic Modelling and Landscape Monitoring
• Machine Learning Applications for Earth Systems Problems
• Modelling of Landscape Evolution
• GES_Numerical Modelling of Solid Earth Dynamics

Career Prospects

This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to work in the geoscience field at the interface between computational modeling and geoscience professionals, including areas such as:

• Geothermal
• Carbon capture
• Energy and metals industries
• Earth system modeling
• Flood and landscape modeling
• Environmental consulting and protection The MSc will also prepare students for PhD study in a multitude of earth science research fields.

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees for MSc

Home & RUK

• Full-time fee: Ł12,960
• Part-time fee: Ł1,440 per 20 credits

International & EU

• Full-time fee: Ł31,050

Fee Status

• Fee status guidance

Deposits

International and EU applicants are required to pay a deposit of Ł2,000 when an offer is made.

Additional Fees

• Fee for re-assessment of a dissertation (PGT program): Ł370
• Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed: Ł350
• Registration/exam only fee: Ł170

Funding Opportunities

Several scholarships are available, including:

• ScottishPower Master Scholarship
• The Bseisu-University of Glasgow Scholarship
• University of Glasgow CoSE-UGM Alumni Scholarship
• University of Glasgow African Excellence Award
• University of Glasgow Caribbean Excellence Award
• World Changers Glasgow Scholarship
• Glasgow Excellence Award (UK)
• Postgraduate Access Scholarship
• World Changers Glasgow Scholarship PGT (EU)
• Global Leadership Scholarship
• GREAT Scholarships 2026
• The Humanitarian Scholarship
• Chevening Scholarship
• India Excellence Award
• Erasmus+ Master Degree Loans
• Postgraduate Student Loan (Scotland and EU)
• Postgraduate Loans for Welsh Students
• Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loans England only (PTFL)
• Colfuturo Fundacion para el Futuro de Colombia
• Commonwealth Scholarship Schemes
• DAAD-University of Glasgow 1-year Masters grant
• Sanctuary Scholarships
• Alumni Discount
• The Clan Gregor Society Prize
• Travel Bursary for Forced Migrants
• The Dima Alhaj Scholarship
• Glasgow Highland Society Scholarship

Entry Requirements

• 2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in any Engineering Discipline, Physical Sciences/Mathematics, Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences, or Computing Science.
• Degrees in Building Surveying, Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Planning, Geomatics may be accepted if containing maths.
• Equivalent professional experience may be accepted in lieu of qualification.

English Language Requirements

For applicants from non-English speaking countries, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and Academic Online: 6.5 overall with no subtest less than 6.0
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of the program start date.

How to Apply

To apply for a postgraduate taught degree, you must apply online.

• Documents required include:
  • A copy of your official degree certificate(s)
  • A copy of your official academic transcript(s)
  • Official English translations of the certificate(s) and transcript(s)
  • One reference letter on headed paper
  • Evidence of your English language ability (if your first language is not English)
  • Any additional documents required for this program
  • A copy of the photo page of your passport

Application Deadlines

International & EU Applicants

Due to demand for degree places on this program, the University has an application process with application rounds.

• Round 1 application dates: 1 October 2025 to 5 November 2025
• Round 2 application dates: 6 November 2025 to 17 December 2025
• Round 3 application dates: 18 December 2025 to 4 February 2026
• Round 4 application dates: 5 February 2026 to 25 March 2026
• Round 5 application dates: 26 March 2026 to 13 May 2026
• Round 6 application dates: 14 May 2026 to 8 July 2026

Home Applicants

• 21 August 2026

Related Programs

• Computing Science
• Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
• Environment & Sustainability
• Geographical & Earth Sciences
• Statistics