Oxford – Earth Sciences (Geology)

Earth Sciences - not just the study of rocks! - takes a scientific approach to the world’s surfaces. Teaching will cover areas of physics, biology and chemistry for a broad understanding of geology and planet Earth. It’s a small course with an average intake of around 40, with a perfectly balanced ratio of men to women (a rarity amongst most Oxford courses which tend show a marked gender leaning).

With great facilities and a world-renowned department, the Earth Sciences Faculty offers top-class teaching and a unique experience. Undergraduates learn how to interpret rock materials and geological phenomena, and consider what the Earth may look like in the future. One of the highlights of this course is the fieldwork. Students have the opportunity to go on several excursions throughout their time at Oxford and spend at least 3 months in the field (more if they take a Master’s and this includes fieldwork). Field courses take place every year in areas including Pembroke, Dorset, and south-east Spain. Here students develop skills including measuring, recording, mapping, and general problem-solving. The costs of the fieldwork are covered by the Department.

If they wish, students can stay for a fourth year and study for a Master’s degree (MEarthSci).

Applicants require an A Level (or equivalent) in Maths and either Chemistry or Physics. It may help to have also studied Biology, Geology, Geography and/or Further Maths (if offered) but is not a requirement.