University of Leicester

What you'll study

This joint honours degree brings together the study of landscape-forming processes from physical geography with the fundamental principles of geology. In early years you'll build core knowledge and practical skills: sedimentology, mineralogy and petrology; structural geology; geomorphology; hydrology; Quaternary environments; and the basics of GIS, remote sensing and field mapping. Laboratory classes develop microscopy, grain-size analysis, geochemical thinking and quantitative data handling. Fieldwork is an integral element, with multi-day residential mapping and process-based field courses in a range of UK environments and shorter excursions to support specific modules.

In the middle and final years you deepen subject specialisms through modules such as applied sedimentology, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction, tectonics, environmental change and hydrogeology, along with advanced GIS, remote sensing and numerical methods. You will normally complete an independent final-year research project or dissertation that synthesises field, laboratory and analytical skills and can be tailored to interests in climate change, hazards, natural resources or environmental management.

Course structure

• Year 1: introductory modules in physical geography and geology, core practical skills and basic mapping/GIS.
• Year 2: intermediate topics, stronger emphasis on laboratory techniques, data analysis and regional fieldwork.
• Final year: specialised modules and a substantial independent research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have good secondary-school qualifications with a strong science or numerate background. Typical offers normally require strong A-levels (including a science, geography or mathematics) or an equivalent qualification. The programme also welcomes applicants with relevant vocational qualifications or mature applicants with suitable experience.

International qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate and other country-specific secondary qualifications are accepted when equivalent to the standard required for UK applicants. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or equivalent qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates combine practical geological skills and an understanding of environmental processes, making them attractive to a wide range of employers. Common career pathways include:

• environmental and engineering consultancy (site investigation, contaminated land, remediation)
• geological survey and exploration (mining, mineral and hydrocarbon exploration)
• water and hydrogeology roles with utilities and environmental agencies
• environmental management, conservation and land-use planning
• GIS and remote sensing analyst roles across public and private sectors
• research and academic careers through MSc and PhD study
• roles in teaching, heritage and museums, and science communication

Graduates also benefit from the University’s careers and employability services, which support placement searches, employer engagement and postgraduate applications.

Why study at University of Leicester

Leicester offers research-led teaching in a school with established strengths across Quaternary science, volcanology, sedimentary processes and geophysics, so teaching is informed by active research. The programme emphasises hands-on learning: substantial fieldwork, well-equipped laboratories and dedicated GIS/remote-sensing facilities allow students to gain practical technical experience.

The city’s central location in the UK gives easy access to a wide range of field sites for mapping and process studies. Students benefit from links with local and national employers, research councils and professional bodies, plus academic support through supervisors for final-year projects. The campus and local community provide a supportive environment for study, with careers and skills services to help transition into employment or further study.