Geology and Geophysics

Geology and Geophysics

Introduction

Geologists study the Earth’s interior, crust, oceans and atmosphere to tackle the major scientific and environmental challenges such as climate change, natural hazards, natural resources and energy transition.

Earth Sciences at the University of Aberdeen is ranked 1st in the UK for student satisfaction in the 2024 National Student Survey, with an overall positivity measure of 100%.

Our Degrees

We offer a range of Geology and Geophysics degrees which you can read more about below.

View available degree programmes

Pathway Programmes

The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre offers preparation programmes for progression to undergraduate degree study at the university.

Discover the International Study Centre

Our teaching and research is all about building a sustainable future for people and our planet. Our programmes in geology teach you how to use the latest fieldwork and digital skills to extract valuable information recorded in Earth’s rocks, minerals and fossils - an archive that holds the keys to many current societal and environmental problems.

Sustainability is at the heart of what we do at Aberdeen and here you will learn how to develop sustainable environmental practices as well as the key subsurface skills required for the rapidly evolving energy transition sector.

Degree Programmes

  • BSc Geology - Explore the processes that have shaped the Earth and its surface and subsurface environments through time, and develop the skills to tackle the challenges of climate change, sustainable energy, water security and natural disasters.
  • BSc Geoscience - Gain a scientific understanding of the significant environmental challenges we face today, and learn how to use a wide range of geoscience skills, concepts and viewpoints to investigate the Earth's ecosystems, environments and climate over time.

The Science Teaching Hub provides students with the most modern microscopy laboratories in the UK. Our advanced microscopes and cameras allow you to study rocks and capture images like never before.

Why study STEM?

The University of Aberdeen offers a range of STEM-related degrees, STEM being the collective of subjects covering science, technology, engineering and maths. With world-class academics and cutting-edge facilities like our Science Teaching Hub, we can give you access to some of the best STEM teaching and research in Scotland, maximising your learning potential and preparing you for industry.

Learn More

Available Programmes of Study

Single Honours Degrees

Joint Honours Degrees


You may also be interested in...

Major-Minor Honours Degrees

Why Study Geology and Geophysics at Aberdeen?

  • Earth Sciences at the University of Aberdeen is ranked 1st in the UK for student satisfaction in the 2024 National Student Survey, with an overall positivity measure of 100%
  • Since it combines all of the major natural and physical sciences in a broad interdisciplinary mix, Geoscience is in many ways the ultimate general science degree
  • The School of Geosciences is a world-leader in the adoption and application of digital technology, combining the latest virtual tools and resources with our unrivalled field study locations on our doorstep here in Scotland and overseas
  • Fieldwork is an important element of our programmes and we make the best use of our location in Scotland and our close proximity to numerous fantastic fieldwork sites
  • Fieldwork locations include - Arran, Skye, Northwest Highlands and other areas throughout the UK
  • Many past graduates continue to work in the city and links with industry are therefore very strong and employability second to none
  • You have the chance to join the American Association of Petroleum Geologists Student Chapter. This is an active and very social Student Chapter which will give you the opportunity to expand your knowledge, skills and networks beyond the classroom
  • To expand skills, knowledge and networks even further, many of our students join the Aberdeen Geology Society
  • Geology is ranked 8th in the UK by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
  • The Science Teaching Hub provides geology students with the most modern microscopy laboratories in the UK. Our new state-of-the-art microscopes and cameras allow you to capture high-quality images and share images with your lab instructors

What our Alumni Say

Joselia Ferreira

Joselia Ferreira

Joselia Ferreira

Job Details
Earth Scientist, Chevron
Graduated 2014

I enjoyed the fact that the university is very international and has top quality Professors with good knowledge and reputation that are known within the Oil and Gas Industry. The subjects I had targeted the oil industry.

Becky Wain

Becky Wain

Becky Wain

Job Details
Graduate Geologist
Graduated 2013

The links with many different industries allows the university to be among the best for research and development so you will know that you are learning the most up to date and relevant information during your studies.

Get in Touch

Contact Details

Address
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX