Year 1
You will have a broad introduction to geoscience and discover the role of geology and geoscientists in today's society.
Modules
- First Year Tutorials
- The Rock Cycle – Our Dynamic Earth (double module)
- Micro to Macro: From Rock Properties to Plate Tectonics
- Palaeobiology and the Stratigraphic Record
- Natural Resources and Energy for the 21st Century
- Geological Maps and Structures
- Introductory Field Course (Arran)
All four of our geoscience subjects have the same first year so you can transfer between subjects before Year 2 if you wish to. This is the same as Year 1 of the BSc.
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Year 2
You will learn about more advanced aspects of geosciences such as the conditions required to form magmatic, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Core modules
- Geological Field Skills (Spain, Anglesey and a field skills training trip)
- Magmatic and Metamorphic Processes
- Depositional Processes and Environments
- Earth and Ocean Systems
- Structure and Tectonics
- Climate Change: Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation
Option modules
Choose one option module from:
- Principles of Geophysics
- Introductory Mineral Deposits
- Major Events in the History of Life
This is the same as Year 2 of the BSc. At the end of Year 2 your performance must meet a set level to continue on the MGeol. If this is not the case, you will transfer to the BSc and complete your degree in three years.
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Optional Year in Industry
If you want to, you can take a year out between your second and third years and spend that time working in industry.
If you choose to do this, you’ll take a module in your second year that will help you to find a work placement and prepare you for the workplace. Throughout your placement, there will be structured support available to you from specialist staff at the University.
You’ll benefit from real-world experience in a commercial setting, enabling you to make an easier transition from studying to working after you finish your degree. It will also strengthen your CV significantly in preparation for entering the graduate labour market. On top of all this, you’ll be paid a salary for your placement.
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Year 3 (or Optional Year Abroad)
In your third year you can choose to stay in Leicester, in which case your third year will be the same as the final year of the BSc. During this year you will have the opportunity to take your degree in the direction that you want. The core modules will ensure that you are advancing in the essential areas of geology. Optional modules provide the chance to continue with the fundamental principles of geology at an advance level or specialise in the areas that fascinate you.
Core modules
- Independent Field-Based Project
- Plus your Dissertation
Field Courses
Choose one field course from:
- Physical Volcanology - Tenerife
- Applied Geology Field Course
- Basin Evolution and Palaeoenvironments Field Course - Wales
- Archaeological Geophysics Field Course
Option modules
Choose two option modules from:
- Environmental Geoscience
- Diversity and Evolution of Vertebrates
- Geophysical Data Analysis
- Water Quality Processes and Management
And two option modules from
- Earth Science in Education
- Planetary Science
- Reflection Seismology
- Geological Application of Microfossils
- Mineral Exploration and Evaluation
- Advanced Mineral Deposits
- Stable Isotopes in the Environment
- River Dynamics
This is the same as the final year of the BSc.
Year Abroad
If you want to, you can spend your third year studying abroad at one of our partner institutions (eligibility is dependent on your academic performance in Years 1 and 2).
NB. A year spent abroad still incurs a tuition fee, but this is much lower than for a normal year at Leicester. See our Fees and Funding section for details. If you are eligible for a loan from Student Finance you can apply for a travel grant from them.
Studying abroad is not just for people who are interested in travelling and meeting new people. It is about acquiring life skills that are becoming increasingly significant for a wide range of jobs in our modern globalised society. Whether you go on to work in the private sector, the state sector, a non-governmental organisation or become self-employed you will find the experience invaluable. Find out more from our Study Abroad Unit.
Geology at Leicester has links with the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand - Explore the stunning Southern Alps, geothermal sites, mud pools and geysers, the active volcanoes of the Taupo volcanic zone – and Mount Doom!
To be considered for the year abroad requires a 65% average by the middle of your second year. Places are limited, competition is high, and selection is based on academic thresholds.
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Final Year
During your final year you will concentrate on specialising within a predominantly optional module structure. Your research project will be an opportunity to delve into an area of geoscience that has captured your interest during the first three years under the supervision of our highly accomplished staff members.
Core modules
- Masters Research Project (Geology)
- Hot Topics
Choose one field course module from:
- Advanced Field Course: Overseas
- Anthropogenic Impact on the Urban Environment
Option modules
Choose two option modules from:
- Methods and Modelling in Palaeoclimatology
- Evolutionary Palaeobiology
- Igneous Petrogenesis
- Ore Genesis
- Global and Crustal Seismology
- Anthropogenic Impact on the Urban Environment (if you have done Advanced Field Course: Overseas as your field course module)
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
