Geology

Course summary

On human time scales geological processes may seem slow but they shape our world. Throughout the course, we will virtually speed up these processes to see the origins of the universe and planets, the opening and closing of entire oceans, climate change, the evolution of life, the rise (and future) of our entire civilization, and the end of the universe itself. Reasons to study the subject include: ● Foster a worldview by investigating the very processes that have created the world seen today. ● The impacts of climate change and the prospect of planetary exploration will increase the need for more geologists in the future. ● Develop excellent transferable problem-solving skills. ● Explore the links between geology and other STEM subjects to appreciate a multidisciplinary approach to solving issues relevant to hazards, energy, and climate. ● Employability – “Hands-on” practical and field skills recognized by employers and universities. Separate qualification gained for this. Content: Year 1 ● Space and the Solar System ● Rocks and minerals ● Fossils (including dinosaurs) ● Volcanoes ● Tectonic plates ● Practical and fieldwork Year 2 ● The evolution of life ● Climate Change ● Hazards ● Natural Resources ● The evolution of the lithosphere ● Practical and fieldwork Where could it take me? Many of the students go on to study earth and environmental sciences or related degrees, but other pathways include archaeology, oceanography, and marine biology degrees. Universities include Cambridge, Oxford, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, and York. Several students have gone on to study an apprenticeship. Students can progress to careers such as; climatologist, hazard management, meteorologist, vulcanologist and sustainability consultant.