What students say about geology
What you need to get on a course
Subjects you need
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required
- Choose two from biology, chemistry, physics and maths
Useful to have
- geography
- Geology
Application checklist
Here's a guide to what to expect from the application process - also check individual university entry requirements, as these may differ.
- January application
- October application
- Personal statement
- Portfolio
- Interview
- Entry test
- Work experience
- Audition
Personal statement advice
Your personal statement is a core part of your university application, and getting it just right takes time. Before you start work on yours, take a look at our five quick tips on writing a personal statement. We'll help you past that writer's block!
Personal statement tips and adviceCareer prospects
Six months after graduating
- Natural and social science professionals
Longer term career paths
Jobs where this degree is useful
- Geophysicist
- Geologist
- Mudlogger
Other real-life job examples
- Contaminated land engineer
- Land surveyor
- Quarry manager
What employers like about this subject
Geology students can expect to gain subject-specific skills including an understanding of earth evolution and current planetary processes; the scientific principles underlying earth processes and computing, physics, chemistry and field skills for earth sciences. Transferable skills you can develop will include communication, project management, IT skills, problem-solving, data investigation, high-level numeracy and good research skills. Geology graduates are in demand from a number of industries in the UK and overseas, particularly from the oil and gas industry, but also from mining and quarrying, construction, the water industry, engineering and consultancy, technical testing, government, higher education, museums and the finance industry.