Geophysics and Geology are concerned with the study of the Earth. Geophysics is the study of the Earth's internal structure and dynamics through the use of physics and mathematics. You will learn the fundamental physical principles and mathematical techniques underpinning the subject, and their application to fields as diverse as oil and gas exploration, environmental monitoring and protection, and mitigation of natural hazards. You will gain an understanding of the inner workings of our planet.
Geology is the study of the evolution of the Earth over the last 4,500 million years and is founded on careful observation of the natural world, coupled with the application of physical, chemical and biological principles. The unifying theory of plate tectonics has transformed our understanding of the global processes behind the Earth's evolution, including the creation and destruction of the oceans, the origin of volcanoes and of ore deposits, the development of hydrocarbon basins and the building of mountains. Our geophysics programmes are unique in Scotland. The University has one of the largest groupings of geophysicists in Europe, offering unrivalled courses that cover practical applications of physics and mathematics in the geosciences. |
These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
The typical offer is likely to be:
• SQA Highers: AAAA.
• A Levels: AAA.
• IB: 37 points with 555 at HL.
Minimum entry requirements
• SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S5 or ABBBB/AABB from S4-S6, to include Mathematics at Grade A and Physics.
• A Levels: ABB required in one sitting, to include Mathematics at Grade A and Physics.
• IB: 32 points overall and award of IB Diploma with 555 at HL to include Mathematics and Physics. |
| Additional Admission Requirements: | You must provide evidence that your written and spoken English is at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.
If English is not your first language, you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your spoken and written English:
• IELTS Academic module overall 6.5 with 5.5 in each component
• TOEFL iBT 92 or above with 20 in each section
• Cambridge English: Advanced & Proficiency overall 176 with 162 in each component
• Pearson Test of English (Academic): Total 61 with at least 51 in each "Communicative Skills" section
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with a distinction in all four components
SQA and GCSE
For SQA and GCSE students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:
• SQA National 5 Grade C
• SQA Standard Grade 3
• SQA Intermediate 1 Grade A
• SQA Intermediate 2 Grade C
• GCSE Grade C
• IB Standard Level Grade 4 |
* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.
