Why Study Earth and Environmental Sciences?
Discover the science that makes our world
Combine your passion for the natural world with the science you learn in the classroom to tackle global challenges.
A degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences introduces you to all the ways in which scientists study our planet, before empowering you to specialise in a discipline that prepares you for a career with impact.
From your first year forward, you will learn in the lab and on life-changing field trips. Gaining hands-on experience as well as the analytical skills of a natural scientist. The next step will be a world of possibilities ...
How you'll learn
Strong foundations
We have a common first year for both our degree courses in Earth and Planetary Science and Environmental Science, which includes three core units: Understanding the Earth, Practical and Professional Skills, and The Natural Scientist’s Toolkit.
These are taught in lectures, the lab and out on field trips, giving you the chance to experience topics across earth, environmental and planetary sciences.
Understanding the Earth
The Earth is unique in our solar system in supporting life, has this always been the case?
Explore the geology, chemistry, physics and biology of four distinct chapters in Earth's history.
The natural scientist’s toolkit
Apply mathematical theory to real-world problems, use computer modelling with geological and environmental data and understand the chemistry of the earth and environment.
Practical and professional skills
Taught through practical sessions, including six one-day field courses in locations near Manchester, such as Jodrell Bank, the Peak District and the coast of the Wirral peninsula.
Picking a pathway
After you’ve had a chance to explore each aspect of earth and environmental sciences, you’ll have the flexibility to choose the areas that inspire you.
There are eight pathways on offer across Earth and Planetary and Environmental Sciences, from atmospheric science to pollution control and paleobiology to planetary science.
Field trips
Field trips are a key component of our undergraduate degrees, allowing you to put into practice the skills you learn in lectures and laboratory classes.
Head to geologically and environmentally fascinating locations in the UK and abroad, including Italy, Germany, France and Tenerife. Get a true feel for life as a geologist, geochemist or an environmental scientist.
Study options
Making your degree work for you
If you study for three years, you will graduate with a BSc degree either in Earth and Planetary Science or in Environmental Science, alongside your chosen pathway.
Both degree courses may be extended to four years (MEarthSci and MEnvSci) to give you significant extra research or vocational experience that will make you more attractive to future employers in both academia and industry.
Industrial experience
Take a position in industry and use your science training while gaining experience of the world of work.
Here’s student Sanya’s experience of going beyond the books and into a placement at Unilever.
Research placement
Join a world-leading research team working in your field.
Spend a year as a full-time professional researcher.
International study
Travel to one of our many partner universities across the world.
Immerse yourself in another culture, and gain a new perspective to your study.
Where can this course take you?
Where do graduates work?
Studying for a degree in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences will provide you with a fantastic training and a skillset which will empower you to make the best of your life and career.
Companies our graduates go on till after graduation include:
- Atkins
- GeoCon
- Jacobs
- KPMG
- RSK
- Schlumberger
- WSP
- the Met Office
- … and many more.
What sectors do they work in?
Our graduates go on to work in sectors such as:
- Energy and Resources
- Renewables and Environment
- Banking/Finance
- Consulting.
Making a difference
Matt’s passion for the natural world led to him pursuing a career that would allow him to protect the natural environment.
Supporting you
At Manchester, we don’t just teach you — we support you in planning your future from day one. You’ll have the access to our award winning careers service.
Courses
Find the right course for you
There are options available to you if you want to study earth and environmental sciences at Manchester.
- Earth and Planetary Sciences BSc
- Earth and Planetary Sciences MEarthSci
- Earth and Planetary Sciences with Industrial Experience MEarthSci
- Earth and Planetary Sciences with an Integrated Foundation Year BSc / MEarthSci
- Earth and Planetary Sciences with International Study MEarthSci
- Earth and Planetary Sciences with a Research Placement MEarthSci
How to apply
Start your journey to an undergraduate degree in earth and environmental sciences
If you’re interested in applying, here’s what you need to know.
Contact us
Have any questions? Get in touch
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences Undergraduate Admissions
- Tel: +44 (0)161 306 0888
- Email: ug-earth-sci@manchester.ac.uk
General undergraduate enquiries
- Tel: +44 (0)161 275 2077
- Email: study@manchester.ac.uk