University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme combines core geological science with practical laboratory and field skills. You will study Earth materials and mineralogy, igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary processes, structural geology and tectonics, palaeontology and stratigraphy, geochemistry and geophysics. Practical training includes thin-section microscopy, geochemical analysis, sedimentary logging, geological mapping and the use of GIS and remote sensing for geological interpretation.

Teaching is delivered through lectures, small-group practicals, computer-based workshops and residential field courses. Fieldwork is a central feature: you will undertake UK-based mapping and sedimentology trips and at least one longer residential field trip abroad or to more remote UK locations. In your final year you will complete an independent research project (dissertation) that develops skills in data collection, interpretation and scientific communication.

• Core laboratory skills: petrography, mineral identification, sample preparation
• Analytical techniques: basic geochemical and geophysical methods
• Applied topics: hydrogeology, engineering geology, environmental geology and natural hazards
• Computing: GIS, data visualisation and quantitative analysis

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have A-levels (or equivalent qualifications) with strong grades in relevant science subjects. Typical offers request credentials demonstrating solid performance in at least one science or quantitative subject such as Chemistry, Physics, Biology, or Geography. BTEC and other vocational qualifications may be considered when combined with appropriate science-based units.

GCSE English and mathematics are usually expected at a grade that demonstrates competence in written communication and numeracy. Mature applicants and those with non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged to apply; relevant work experience or evidence of recent study will strengthen an application. International applicants should meet the University's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Geology BSc move into a wide range of careers across industry, public sector and research. Typical roles include geological and environmental consultancy, hydrogeology and water resource management, mining and mineral exploration, engineering geology and geotechnical roles, environmental assessment and remediation, and GIS/data-analyst positions. Some graduates work in energy sectors (including renewables and subsurface aspects of geothermal and carbon storage), while others progress to research degrees or teaching.

The programme emphasises transferable skills—field surveying, laboratory techniques, data analysis, report writing and teamwork—that are valued by employers. The University’s careers service and departmental contacts can support applications for placements, internships and postgraduate study.

Why study at University of Leicester

Leicester offers a geology degree with strong practical emphasis and sustained field training, supported by well-equipped laboratories, rock and fossil collections and computing facilities for GIS and geochemical data processing. The department has active research groups across sedimentary systems, tectonics, geochemistry and environmental geology, providing opportunities to link teaching with current research and undertake project work supervised by active researchers.

The University maintains links with industry and external organisations, which facilitates guest lectures, placement opportunities and applied research collaborations. Its central location in the UK provides convenient access to a variety of geological field sites for teaching and research, while residential field courses broaden experience of different geological terrains.