Geology

Course summary

This course is ideal for anyone with an interest in the origin and structure of the Earth. You will be taught about the Earth’s composition and internal processes by studying the geological history of the Earth, and by analysing fossils and rock structure. In the first year of the course, there is an emphasis on the foundations of the subject, in particular learning about minerals, the three main groups of rocks, fossil formation, volcanic eruptions, and geological time. In the second year, this knowledge is extended into further details about the formation of different rock types, engineering geology and mining, earthquakes, and the evolution of life and climate on earth. Local field trips will allow you to extend your class-based learning. The course is taught in a purpose-built geology laboratory with access to a large number of specimens that are used in lessons. The laboratory also houses an extensive range of practical equipment.