Earth Sciences and Physical Geography BSc (Hons)

The University of Edinburgh

Do you want to help tackle the greatest challenges facing society and the natural world?

This degree is for you.

Why Earth science and geography?

The world needs geographers and Earth scientists now more than ever before.

For example, we need them to:

• help us address the climate crisis
• adapt to environmental changes
• live more safely and sustainably on our dynamic Earth

Our degree will help you play a valuable role in addressing the global challenges facing our planet and society.

Making a difference starts here. Are you ready?

What will I learn?

The BSc Earth Science and Physical Geography allows you to combine your understanding of both physical geography and Earth processes to address global challenges.

It carefully balances data science, programming, and computing skills with traditional field and laboratory skills, along with a knowledge of geography and Earth science.

You will learn about:

• the structure and composition of the Earth
• the deep-Earth processes that shape the Earth's surface and impact the landscape
• the associated hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides

We will build on this knowledge to explore how oceans, rivers, glaciers, and human impact define the modern and ancient landscape. We will also examine how these processes, in turn, impact society.

This integrated understanding underpins leading research on global change and many of the world's most critical physical environmental challenges.

We embrace a hands-on approach to learning, so you can develop in-demand practical skills. Many of your activities simulate those that professionals perform in the real world. We will also teach you sought-after computational analysis and quantitative skills.

For example:

• advanced data science skills
• computing skills including programming, simulations and use of specialist software
• computer modelling and mapping
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• laboratory experience in a range of analytical techniques
• fieldwork in various settings

Demand is growing for these data skills across a range of employment sectors.

You will learn from leading national and international geographers and Earth scientists across a diverse range of fields. We help ensure your degree has real-world relevance and make you highly sought after by employers.

Our links also provide you with valuable networking and potential employment opportunities. You will be able to meet and interact with professionals from various sectors throughout your studies. You will also have the opportunity to work alongside practitioners and industry experts to gain valuable experience.

This degree offers you flexibility in your studies by catering to a wide range of interests across geography and the Earth sciences. You'll be able to build your degree around topics you are curious or passionate about.

For example, you may enjoy:

• studying the Earth sciences but want greater flexibility in your honours years

or

• studying physical geography, but also want a deeper understanding of how the Earth works

Open to a world of possibilities

We are one of the largest and most successful groupings of geographers, Earth and environmental scientists in the UK, many of whom are world experts in their field.

• We have pioneered research proving human-caused greenhouse gasses are warming our planet, which helped underpin the 2015 Paris Agreement.
• We are working with major space agencies to monitor the environment using satellite data.
• We are 15th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

Our staff will incorporate the latest research in your teaching, and share our discoveries with you.

Join us as our planet and humanity face some of the biggest challenges we have ever known.