Environmental Earth Sciences with a Year Abroad

Environmental Earth Sciences with Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia is a comprehensive programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the Earth's physical processes, geological structures, and environmental systems. This course integrates core principles of geology, geophysics, and environmental science to provide a multidisciplinary perspective on Earth's dynamic environment. Throughout the programme, students will explore topics such as Earth's structure and composition, natural resources, climate change, and environmental management, preparing them for careers in environmental consultancy, resource management, and scientific research.

One of the distinctive features of this programme is the Year Abroad, which offers students the opportunity to gain international experience, improve language skills, and deepen their cultural awareness. During the Year Abroad, students may study at partner institutions across Europe or beyond, engaging in coursework and research projects that enhance their global perspective on environmental issues. This experience not only broadens academic horizons but also builds valuable skills in adaptability, intercultural communication, and independent learning.

The curriculum combines theoretical lectures with practical fieldwork, laboratory sessions, and project work, ensuring students develop essential skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. The programme also emphasizes the use of modern technology and software in earth sciences, preparing graduates for advanced research or professional work in environmental geology, resource exploration, and sustainable development.

Students benefit from the university's state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped laboratories, field trip opportunities, and access to extensive geological and environmental datasets. The teaching staff are experienced researchers and practitioners who provide expert guidance and mentorship throughout the course. Additionally, the programme encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, skills vital for addressing the complex environmental challenges facing our planet today.

Graduates of the programme will be well-prepared to pursue careers in environmental agencies, consultancy firms, government bodies, and research institutions. They may also choose to continue their studies at postgraduate level, specializing further in areas such as hydrogeology, environmental management, or geosciences. With a strong emphasis on practical experience and international exposure, the Environmental Earth Sciences with Year Abroad programme at the University of East Anglia offers a solid foundation for a rewarding career in understanding and protecting our planet.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 17480 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

• English

Course Content

Year 1

You will develop your basic scientific skills with compulsory modules covering mathematics, research and field skills, in addition to Earth science, providing you with a solid foundation to the honours years of your degree.

Year 2

You will develop your Earth science skills through a compulsory research skills module. In addition, you will choose a number of optional modules from the range available. Some options outside the School may be taken, for example a foreign language or, international development studies. Please note that the Year Abroad and Year in Industry are taken between years 2 and 3

Year 3

In the third year you will undertake an independent project under the supervision of a member of faculty which will involve collecting and analysing data, collating and interpreting results and presenting them in oral and written form. Previous students have conducted projects on a vast range of different topics including, for example: volcanic ash, British beaches, earthquake hazard and risk assessment, sandstone variability, sedimentary geochemistry, hydrogeology, and palaeoclimatology. The transferable skills this develops is invaluable in future careers. Alongside this you will have the opportunity to choose modules in your preferred area of the environmental Earth sciences from the wide range available.

Year 4 (MSci only)

During the final year of the integrated Masters programme you will study advanced Masters level modules chosen from the optional range and undertake a substantial piece of independent research under the supervision of a research active member of faculty. MSci projects may include topics such as:

• Palaeohydrology of the Yare River Valley
• Relationships between land use, surface runoff and sediment transport in the Blackwater sub-catchment of the River Wensum
• Fracture patterns in lavas
• Seasonal variation in spring water chemistry
• Quantifying and explaining variation in chalk cliff erosion rates
• A sheet sandstone – record of a catastrophic Jurassic flood?
• Modelling volcanic dome collapse.

Please note that course profiles may be reviewed and changed for future years of study.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level: AAB
• International Baccalaureate: 33 points
• Scottish Highers: AAABB
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB
• European Baccalaureate: 80%

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

Applicants are asked to have at least one science based A2-level or equivalent. Acceptable science subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 45 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 Science credits.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

Environmental Earth Sciences with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive education in understanding the Earth's physical processes, environmental systems, and sustainability challenges. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, research, conservation, and resource management. Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as geosciences, climate change, hydrology, and environmental monitoring, applying scientific principles to real-world problems. A distinctive feature of this program is the opportunity to spend a year abroad, typically studying at a partner university in another country, which enhances students’ global perspective and cross-cultural communication skills. During the Year Abroad, students may engage in additional coursework, research projects, or fieldwork that complements their studies at UEA, often gaining valuable international experience. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory experiments, field excursions, and computer modelling, enabling students to develop practical competencies alongside their academic understanding. UEA’s strong links with industry and research institutions provide opportunities for internships and collaborative projects, fostering employability prospects upon graduation. The program also benefits from UEA’s expertise in environmental sciences and its modern facilities, including dedicated laboratories and environmental monitoring equipment. Entry requirements typically include strong academic performance in relevant subjects, with an emphasis on science and mathematics. The course duration is usually four years, combining standard study years with the abroad year. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute to solving some of the most pressing environmental issues facing society today and in the future, with a solid foundation in both scientific theory and practical application.