Earth and Environmental Science MSci Hons (4R71) Program Details ## Overview of the Program The Earth and Environmental Science MSci Hons program at Lancaster University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's systems and the impact of human activities on the environment. This four-year program combines theoretical and practical knowledge, enabling students to develop a deep understanding of the complex relationships between the Earth's geology, atmosphere, oceans, and living organisms. ### Top Reasons to Study with Us - 5th for Earth and Marine Sciences (Career after 15 months) in The Guardian University Guide (2026) - 9th for Geography & Environmental Science in The Complete University Guide (2026) - 11th for Geography and Environmental Science in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2025) ### What to Expect The program begins by building students' understanding of geology, the Earth's interior and atmosphere, weather and climate systems. In the second year, students explore specific topics such as geological field skills, soil science, and glacial systems. The third year offers a choice of topics and the opportunity to apply knowledge to a dissertation project, which can involve fieldwork, laboratory-based research, or computer modeling. The final year provides Master's-level training, including the study of advanced modules and the completion of a major research project supervised by an active researcher. ### Getting Out in the Field The program includes hands-on experience conducting research in real-world environments on a local, regional, and global scale. Students may participate in overseas field courses to study topics such as volcanic processes, glacial processes, or environmental challenges. Fieldwork closer to home takes place in locations like the Lake District World Heritage Site and the Yorkshire Dales. ### Personal Development Throughout the program, students gain a variety of transferable skills valued by employers, including communication, information technology, data handling, environmental sampling, and analysis. ## Careers Earth and environmental sciences are crucial in addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. Graduates can pursue careers in fields such as environmental consultancy, weather forecasting, conservation, sustainability, toxicology, and hydrology. The program also prepares students for further academic study or careers in non-environmental fields where skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management are highly valued. ### Skills for Your Future - A degree in Earth and Environmental Science provides both specialist and transferable skills sought after by employers across various sectors. - The Placement Year option involves spending the third year of the four-year degree working full-time in a business, which can help decide on a career path and provide a strong advantage in the job market after graduation. - Learning on Location involves hands-on experience working in the field, applying laboratory skills necessary for the environmental sector, and gaining experience beyond the degree. - Teaching Career Success includes insight into the graduate labor market and tools for a successful transition into the world of work. ## Entry Requirements ### Qualifications and Typical Requirements - A levels: AAB, including one science subject from Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology. - Access to HE Diploma: Considered on a case-by-case basis, with typical entry requirements being 36 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 9 Level 3 credits at Merit. - Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales: Accepted in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as subject requirements are met. - BTEC Extended Diploma: DDD, with sufficient science content. - International Baccalaureate: 35 points overall, with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects, including one HL science subject at grade 6. - Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers: Five Highers, with specific subject requirements for Advanced Highers. - T levels: Considered on a case-by-case basis, with a T level in Science potentially accepted at Distinction, with an A in the core component. ### GCSE Requirements - Mathematics: Grade 4/C - English Language: Grade 4/C ### English Language Requirements - IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component. ## Course Structure The program is structured over four years, with each year building on the previous one to provide a comprehensive education in Earth and Environmental Science. ### Year 1 - Core modules include Atmosphere, Weather and Climate, Biodiversity and Global Change, Catchment Science, Foundation Skills for LEC, Geology, and Practical Skills for Environmental Scientists. ### Year 2 - Core modules include Environmental Data Analysis and Visualisation, Environmental Field Skills, Geologic Mapping, and Practical Geoscience. - Optional modules may include Atmospheric Science, Ecology and Conservation, Hydrology and Water Quality, Ice and Glaciers, and Soil Science. ### Year 3 - Core modules include Dissertation and Environmental Geophysics. - Optional modules may include Climate Change, Cryosphere in a Changing Climate, Eco-Innovation for Sustainable Development, Governing Socio-Ecological Systems in Tropical Asia Field Course, Managing the Energy Transition, Spatial Data Analysis, and Sustainable Agriculture. ### Year 4 - Core module: MSci Dissertation. - Optional modules may include Data Assimilation and Integration, Geoinformatics, Geological Hazards, Groundwater Resources and Protection, and Physical Volcanology Field Course. ## Fees and Funding ### Tuition Fees for 2026/27 - Home: £9,790 - International: £30,770 ### Additional Costs - Travel to field sites - Wet weather clothing, boots, and waterproof notebooks for field trips (estimated cost: £110) - Optional field trips and placements may incur additional travel and accommodation costs. ### Scholarships and Bursaries - Lancaster Bursary: £1,000 in each year of study, based on household income. - Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship – Home: £3,000 in the first year of study, based on entry grades. - International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship: £3,000 as a tuition fee reduction per year of study, based on entry grades. - Other scholarships and bursaries are available, including those for students from specific countries. ## Similar Courses - Earth and Environmental Science BSc Hons (FF68) - Earth and Environmental Science (Placement Year) BSc Hons (FF78) - Earth and Environmental Science (Study Abroad) BSc Hons (FF7V) - Environmental Science BSc Hons (F750) - Environmental Science MSci Hons (F850) - Environmental Science (Placement Year) BSc Hons (F752) - Environmental Science (Study Abroad) BSc Hons (F756) ## Important Information - The University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. - In exceptional circumstances, the University may need to amend programs and provision. - Students will be given reasonable notice of any changes and will be entitled to request consideration for an alternative course or withdraw their application. ## Our Students' Charter - The University and the Students' Union have worked together to articulate the relationship between students and staff and the standards to which the University and its students aspire.

Lancaster University

Overview:

Lancaster University is a public research university located in Lancaster, England. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK and is recognized for its high-quality teaching, research, and student experience.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Lancaster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can enjoy a range of facilities, including a library, sports center, and arts venues. The university also has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student societies and clubs to join.

Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings and Reputation:

Lancaster University is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK, demonstrating its academic excellence.

Excellent Teaching and Learning:

The university is known for its high-quality teaching and learning, with a focus on student engagement and support.

Vibrant Student Life:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and arts events.

Beautiful Campus:

The university is situated on a beautiful campus with modern facilities and green spaces.

Strong Career Support:

Lancaster University provides excellent career support services to help students prepare for their future careers.

Academic Programs:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including: * Arts and Social Sciences * Health and Medicine * Management School * Science and Technology