Environmental Geophysics with a Year Abroad

Environmental Geophysics with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students an in-depth understanding of the physical methods used to investigate and manage Earth's subsurface environments. This comprehensive programme combines rigorous academic coursework with practical fieldwork, equipping students with valuable skills in environmental monitoring, resource exploration, and geotechnical assessments. Throughout the course, students explore fundamental principles of geophysical techniques such as seismic, electrical, electromagnetic, and ground-penetrating radar methods, learning to interpret geophysical data to solve complex environmental problems. The programme emphasizes the application of these techniques in real-world contexts, including groundwater assessment, pollution detection, and natural hazard monitoring, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, resource management, and research.

A key feature of the programme is the integrated Year Abroad, which provides students with exposure to international perspectives and practices within the field of geophysics. During this year, students have the opportunity to study at partner institutions across Europe and beyond, engaging with different geological settings and technical approaches. This experience enhances their cultural awareness, adaptability, and collaborative skills, making them well-equipped to operate in diverse professional environments. The university’s strong links with industry and research organizations offer students internships, networking opportunities, and access to cutting-edge technology, fostering a practical and employment-oriented learning environment.

The curriculum includes modules on geophysical survey methods, data analysis, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable resource management. Students also develop essential skills in GIS, remote sensing, and scientific communication, which are vital in the contemporary environmental sector. The programme culminates in a research project that allows students to apply their knowledge to a specific environmental geophysics problem, often collaborating with industry partners or academic supervisors. Graduates of this programme possess a solid scientific foundation, practical expertise, and international experience, positioning them effectively for roles in environmental consultancy firms, government agencies, research institutes, and renewable energy companies. With a focus on sustainability and technical innovation, the Environmental Geophysics with a Year Abroad programme at UEA prepares students to make meaningful contributions to solving the environmental challenges of the future.

Detailed Course Facts

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

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

• English

Course Content

Example Course Modules

Year 1 compulsory

• Understanding the Dynamic Planet
• Sustainability in Society and Biodiversity in a Changing World
• Earths Chemical Processes and Atmosphere and Oceans
• Global Environmental Challenges
• Numerical Skills for Scientists.

Year 2 optional

• Ocean Circulation
• Meteorology
• Aquatic Ecology
• Environmental Politics and Policy Making
• Hydrology and Hydrogeology.

Year 3 compulsory

• Global Environmental Change
• Research and Field Skills
• Independent Project (BSc only)

Year 3 optional

• Biological Oceanography and Marine Ecology
• Field Course to East Africa
• Earthquake and Volcanic Hazards
• Fossil Fuels.

Year Abroad

At the School of Environmental Sciences, UEA, Norwich we can offer you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend a year of your studies abroad.

The year abroad degree programmes are four years in duration. You will spend your first two years at UEA, Norwich. The third year is spent at a university (of your choice) abroad and the fourth and final year is spent back at UEA, Norwich. The overseas placement is subject to satisfactory academic performance during Years 1 and 2. Students on an exchange programme will be expected to pay 15% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year abroad and we will pay the overseas university.
The chance to spend a year abroad can be an experience of a lifetime as well as providing you with:

• Travel opportunities
• The opportunity to learn a second language
• The chance to experience different cultures
• The chance to study topics that we cannot provide here at UEA

Students on our exchange programmes have the option to spend one year of their studies in either Australasia, Europe or North America. We currently exchange with the below institutions and these are reviewed regularly. We will do our best to place you at the exchange university of your choice, however if the demand for a particular university exceeds the places available, you will be placed elsewhere. Students studying in Europe will be provided with Language training during their second year at UEA, prior to the year in Europe, therefore we do not expect them to obtain a language A-level for admission. We do however ask that all applicants have a GCSE language at Grade B or above (not necessarily French, Spanish or Swedish).
The universities that students from the School of Environmental Sciences currently visit include:

• Macquarie University, Sydney
• Griffith University, Brisbane
• Murdoch University, Perth
• University of New England, Armidale
• University of Sydney
• Lincoln University, Canterbury NZ
• Aix-Marseille II University, France
• Josef Fourier University Grenoble, France
• University of Granada, Spain
• Umea University, Sweden
• Uppsala University, Sweden
• Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
• University of British Columbia, Vancouver
• University of Alaska, Anchorage
• University of Colorado, Boulder
• University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
• University of Maine, Orono
• University of Miami, Florida
• Univerisity of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
• State University of New York, Plattsburgh
• University of California

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

A level Mathematics or equivalent.
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 the Access to He Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 Maths 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 Geophysics with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the physical principles that underpin the Earth's environment and the techniques used to investigate and interpret geophysical data. The program combines rigorous scientific training with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, resource exploration, public sector agencies, and research organizations. The curriculum covers core topics such as seismic, magnetic, gravity, and electrical methods, as well as environmental applications including groundwater mapping, contamination assessment, and natural hazard analysis.

Students benefit from expert teaching staff who are actively involved in research and consultancy projects, providing insights into real-world challenges. Laboratory work and field trips form an integral part of the program, giving hands-on experience with geophysical equipment and data analysis techniques. The year abroad component allows students to spend a year studying at a partner university in another country, enhancing their cultural awareness and international perspectives in geoscience. This experience typically involves studying modules comparable to those offered at UEA, integrated into the student's overall degree.

The program is accredited by professional bodies such as the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) and the Geological Society, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards. Career opportunities include roles in environmental assessment, consultancy firms, government agencies, and research institutions. The university’s strong links with industry ensure that students have access to networking opportunities, internships, and projects with real-world applications. Overall, Environmental Geophysics with a Year Abroad provides a robust platform for students interested in exploring the physical processes of the Earth's environment and applying this knowledge to solve environmental problems on a global scale.