Keele University

What you'll study

The programme covers fundamental and advanced topics in geology with a specific emphasis on environmental applications. Early stages establish core skills in mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, stratigraphy and sedimentology, together with quantitative techniques such as statistics, GIS and geochemical methods. As you progress, modules focus on environmental geoscience themes including hydrogeology, contaminant transport, geohazards, soil and sediment processes, environmental geochemistry and applied field mapping.

Teaching is a mix of lectures, practical laboratory classes, computer-based modelling, small-group tutorials and extensive fieldwork. Field courses make use of local exposures in Staffordshire, the Peak District and regional quarries, plus longer residential trips to expose you to a range of geological environments. The integrated masters culminates in a substantial independent research project or dissertation that typically involves data collection, laboratory analysis and interpretation, supervised by academic staff with expertise in areas such as groundwater systems, pollutant fate, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction and applied sedimentology.

• Core geology and earth materials
• Hydrogeology and groundwater flow
• Environmental geochemistry and contaminant pathways
• Geospatial analysis and GIS for environmental applications
• Geohazards, slope stability and engineering geology
• Field mapping, sediment logging and survey techniques
• Advanced analytical methods and laboratory practice
• Independent research project or dissertation

Structure

The programme is organised to build skills progressively from foundational science to specialised environmental topics and a research-led masters project. Practical and field elements are embedded throughout, with assessment through lab reports, field notebooks, coursework, exams and the final research dissertation. Optional modules allow you to tailor the programme towards interests such as renewable energy geology, contaminated land, or palaeoenvironmental studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a strong background in science subjects. For school leavers, typical offers will require advanced-level study in relevant subjects such as geology, chemistry, physics or mathematics, alongside good GCSE passes in English and mathematics. Mature applicants and those with vocational qualifications or relevant work experience are considered on an individual basis.

Applicants with a prior undergraduate degree in a related subject (for example, BSc in Geology, Environmental Science, Geography or Earth Sciences) will be considered for entry and may be expected to demonstrate a solid honours classification and relevant practical experience. International applicants should hold the equivalent qualifications and meet English language requirements. All applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement outlining their interest in environmental geoscience and any relevant field, laboratory or computing experience.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a wide range of professional roles where geological and environmental expertise is required. Common career destinations include environmental consultancy, hydrogeology and groundwater management, geotechnical and engineering geology, contaminated land assessment and remediation, mineral and energy industry roles, environmental regulation and planning, and applied research. Skills in field mapping, laboratory analysis, GIS, data interpretation and project management also provide routes into roles in conservation organisations, water companies, local authorities, and environmental NGOs. The masters-level research experience also prepares graduates who wish to progress to PhD study or research careers.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based learning environment with strong practical and field‑work emphasis, allowing students to develop hands-on skills in mapping, sampling and laboratory techniques. The geology group has active research in areas relevant to environmental geoscience, providing opportunities for project supervision across topics such as groundwater systems, contaminant geochemistry and environmental change. Small cohort sizes support close staff contact and personalised supervision for final-year research projects.

The university’s proximity to diverse and accessible geological sites across Staffordshire and the wider Peak District means frequent local field trips and practical training without long travel. Keele also maintains links with regional employers and consultancy firms, creating opportunities for placements, collaborative projects and graduate employment. The course is structured to give a balance of theoretical understanding, technical competence and transferable skills valued by employers in the environmental and earth sciences sectors.