Environmental Geoscience with a Year of Study Abroad (BSc)

Program Overview

Cardiff University's Environmental Geoscience program offers a comprehensive education in geology and environmental science, with a unique year abroad for cultural immersion and academic development. Accredited by the Geological Society, the program prepares students for careers in environmental management, engineering, and consulting, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges.

Program Outline

Environmental Geoscience with a Year of Study Abroad (BSc) - Detailed Breakdown

This response will outline the key features of the Environmental Geoscience with a Year of Study Abroad program at Cardiff University based on the provided context.

Degree Overview:

• Professional Accreditation: Accredited by the Geological Society, the professional body for geosciences in the UK.
• Year Abroad: Allows students to experience the landscapes, cultures, and education of a different country while earning credits towards their degree.
• No Prior Knowledge Required: The program welcomes students without prior geology knowledge, providing foundations in essential concepts.
• Flexibility: Students can transfer to a program with a professional placement year or an MSci after the first year.
• Fieldwork Opportunities: Includes regular field trips in the UK and overseas, enhancing practical skills and knowledge.

Outline:

• Year One:
• Focus on core modules: World of Dynamic Environments, Exploring Planet Earth, GIS, Maps and Analytical Skills, Earth Science Fieldwork, Earth Materials, Life and Earth History.
• Year Two:
• Focus on core modules: Applied Geological Fieldwork, Data Analysis and Professional Skills, Sedimentary facies and environments, Structural Geology and Geophysical Investigation, Applied Environmental and Resource Geology, Process Geomorphology & Hydrology.
• Year Three:
• Year of study abroad at a partner institution, focusing on cultural immersion and academic development.
• Students must achieve a minimum Year 1 average mark of 60% to progress to applying for the study abroad placement.
• Year Four:
• A mix of core and optional modules: Advanced Environmental Geology, Hazards, Risk and Resilience, Advanced Geoscience Fieldwork, Petroleum, Geoenergy and Basin Analysis, Geodynamics, Environmental Geoscience Dissertation, Environmental Geoscience Dissertation and Journal.

Assessment:

• Diverse assessments including assignments, presentations, fieldwork, examinations, and a dissertation.
• Written and oral feedback provided on coursework.
• Opportunities for informal feedback throughout the course.
• Alternative assessment methods available for students with disabilities.
• Special consideration and adjustments for students participating in the year of study abroad program.

Teaching:

• Friendly and informal learning environment.
• World-leading experts teaching and supporting students.
• Diverse teaching methods including lectures, lab work, fieldwork, tutorials, workshops, and seminars.
• Encourages independent learning and applying logical thinking to environmental problems.
• Skills developed are in demand in various sectors including civil and environmental engineering, insurance, water supply, and consulting.

Careers:

• Environmental geoscientists are in high demand due to the increasing environmental threats the planet faces.
• Potential career paths include:
• Conservation and environmental management
• Engineering geologist
• Water engineer
• Environmental consultant
• Graduates gain essential employable skills sought after in various sectors like insurance, finance, education, and planning.
• Alumni work for reputable organizations such as the Environment Agency, BAM Construction, Atkins, Welsh Water, LCM Environmental Services, and Mott MacDonald.

Other:

• The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to understand and address environmental challenges.
• The year abroad allows students to develop intercultural awareness, language skills, and adaptability.
• Cardiff University is a part of the University Alliance, a leading group of research-intensive universities in England and Wales.
• The program is committed to inclusivity and welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.

Overall:

The Environmental Geoscience with a Year of Study Abroad program at Cardiff University provides a comprehensive and rigorous education in geology, environmental science, and fieldwork, preparing students for successful careers and impactful contributions to environmental sustainability. The program's strong academic foundation, diverse teaching approaches, and international exposure through the year abroad offer students a unique and valuable learning experience.

Fees for home status

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase.

Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Costs for sandwich years

During a sandwich year (e.g. year in industry, placement year or year abroad) a lower fee will apply.

Additional costs

The fieldwork costs for your core modules are included but you will need to contribute towards food if it is provided during the trip. You will pay 15% of the usual Cardiff University fees during your year of study abroad. You will also need to pay for your living costs while abroad, which may include health insurance costs. Further additional costs include travel and visa application fees. Financial support is available. The Global Opportunities Centre also currently provides a bursary to assist with some of the costs associated with an overseas placement. Full details will be confirmed when you are considering your year of study abroad options.