
- UCAS course code
- F701
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Overview
- Degree awarded
- Bachelor of Science (Honours)
- Duration
- 3 years
- Typical A-level offer
-
Grades ABB which should include at least one science subject. If any of your science A levels include a separate practical component, you must also achieve a Pass in this component.
- Typical contextual A-level offer (what is this?)
-
Grades BBB which should include at least one science subject. If any of your science A levels include a separate practical component, you must also achieve a Pass in this component.
- Typical International Baccalaureate offer
-
34 points overall. 6, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects. The course specific requirements are that one of the Higher Level subjects must be a science subject.
Changes to International Baccalaureate Diploma Mathematics Courses from September 2019, first examination 2021. We are aware of the planned changes to the IB Mathematics curriculum. IB students will be able to choose from: Mathematics: analysis and approaches and Mathematics: applications and interpretation from September 2019.
For this programme of study we will accept either Mathematics: analysis and approaches or Mathematics: applications and interpretation at HL as the course specific requirement of one HL science subject.
- How to apply
- Apply through UCAS .
- UCAS course code
- F701
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course overview

Gain a holistic understanding of Earth systems in order to learn from the past, comprehend the present and influence our future.
On our course you will learn to read the 4.5 billion-year record of the Earth, including the formation of our solar system, and the evolution of living systems and changing environmental conditions, while also studying the sustainable development of Earth's energy and resources. On your doorstep will be some of the UK's wildest settings, ideal for hands-on, practical field work. You'll head to geologically and environmentally fascinating locations in the UK and abroad in every year of study.
Open days
Our Virtual Open Day took place on Saturday 3rd October 2020. If you missed the live event, you can now watch the sessions on demand . Earth and Environmental Sciences hosted the following subject sessions:
Earth and Environmental Sciences - Courses and CareersThis session will introduce you to our degrees in Earth and Environmental Sciences, and the types of careers our graduates move into. If you enjoy the natural sciences, come and find out how we combine physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and geology into the study of our earth and its environment.
Earth and Environmental Sciences - Student Experience
In this session you will meet students from the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. Find out more about why they chose to study with us, their experience on our courses, and living in Manchester.
Applicant visit day
You may be invited to a visit day after submitting your application. These days include a one-to-one chat with one of our academics, and are intended to be as relaxed as possible - they are great for discovering more about student life in Manchester and the course you have chosen. You also get the chance to meet our fantastic current students.
You can find out more about virtual visit days on the Earth and Environmental Sciences website .
Fees
Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2021 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £24,500 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.
Policy on additional costs
All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).
Scholarships/sponsorships
If you are a UK student, you may be eligible for The William Boyd Dawkins Scholarship
International students may be eligible for: The Manchester Science and Engineering International Excellence scholarships
Contact details
- Department
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Contact name
- Admissions Office
- Telephone
- +44 (0) 161 543 4021
- ug-earth-sci@manchester.ac.uk
- Website
- https://www.manchester.ac.uk/ees
- School/Faculty overview
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Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality. Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .
Courses in related subject areas
Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Chemistry
- Environmental Sciences
- Geology
- Physics and Astronomy
- Physical Geography
Compare this course
Entry requirements
A-level
Candidates holding geography as their only science subject will be required to demonstrate an interest and understanding of physical geography, normally at interview.
Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and therefore there will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any science A Level taken.
AS-level
Unit grade information
The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.
GCSE
Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of Literacy and Numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade C or 4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Mathematics. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.
Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic Department for clarification.
International Baccalaureate
34 points overall. 6, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects. The course specific requirements are that one of the Higher Level subjects must be a science subject.
Changes to International Baccalaureate Diploma Mathematics Courses from September 2019, first examination 2021. We are aware of the planned changes to the IB Mathematics curriculum. IB students will be able to choose from: Mathematics: analysis and approaches and Mathematics: applications and interpretation from September 2019.
For this programme of study we will accept either Mathematics: analysis and approaches or Mathematics: applications and interpretation at HL as the course specific requirement of one HL science subject.
Scottish requirements
AB in Advanced Highers including one science plus at least BB in 2 higher level subjects
English Language and Mathematics not taken at Higher/Advanced Higher must have been achieved at SCQF level 5 (minimum National 5 grade C / Intermediate 2 grade C / Standard Grade Credit level grade 3).
If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact the Academic Department(s) you plan to apply to.
Welsh Baccalaureate
The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and usually requires two A Levels or equivalent to be included within this.
The minimum grade required will normally be the same as the lowest grade listed in the A Level entry requirements
European Baccalaureate
AQA Baccalaureate
In making offers, the University will focus on the three A Levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A Level requirements for their chosen course.
The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.
Foundation year
The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme:
Applicants completing the INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester international foundation programme are required to achieve ABB including one science and an EAP score of B . INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester students are required to attend an interview.
Applicants completing the NCUK International Foundation year are required to achieve ABB including one science and an EAP requirements score of B .
Applicants studying other Foundation programmes should contact the academic Department to check if their qualification is recognised for entry to this programme and for specific entry requirements.
Pearson BTEC qualifications
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
We consider the National Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Applied Science National Extended Diploma with grades DDM which must include distinctions in all mandatory science units.
BTEC Level 3 National Diploma
We consider the National Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Diploma with grades DM plus any science A level at grade A
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma
We consider the National Foundation Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Foundation Diploma with grade M plus two A levels (AA) with one science at grade A.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
We consider the National Extended Certificate for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Certificate with grade D plus an additional 2 A levels (AB) with one science at grade A.
OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Diploma with grades DDM plus an additional science A level at grade A .
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Diploma with grades DM plus an additional science A level at grade A.
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Foundation Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Foundation Diploma with grades DM plus an additional two A levels (AB) one of which must be science.
Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC)
We consider the Technical Extended Certificate for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Certificate with grade D plus an additional two A levels (AB) one of which must be science.
Access to HE Diploma
We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3), with merit or distinction in a subject area relevant to the chosen course.
The specific course requirements are 45 credits at level 3 with a minimum of 30 credits at distinction (15 of which must be in science) and remaining 15 at merit
Cambridge Pre-U
Candidates taking Pre-U principal subjects in conjunction with A levels are expected to achieve a combination of D3, M2, M2 in the Pre-U and ABB at A level in three distinct subjects
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Core Maths
The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies).
Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.
We advise students to contact the academic Department, who will clarify whether their specific portfolio of qualifications is acceptable for entry on to their chosen course.
Home-schooled applicants
Non-standard educational routes
English language
All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:
- GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade 4.
- IELTS 6.5 with not less than 6 in any component.
- An acceptable equivalent qualification.
Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic Department for clarification.
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'.
Additionally, our individual Departments may ask for specific English Language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programmes. In most cases these requirements are likely to be higher than the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found here .
English language test validity
Application and selection
How to apply
Advice to applicants
Interview requirements
Applicant visit day
You may be invited to a visit day after submitting your application. These days include a one-to-one chat with one of our academics, and are intended to be as relaxed as possible - they are great for discovering more about student life in Manchester and the course you have chosen. You also get the chance to meet our fantastic current students.
You can find out more about virtual visit days on the Earth and Environmental Sciences website .
Deferrals
Course details
Course description

We are one of the largest Earth and Environmental Sciences departments in the UK, with global reach.
This creates excellent learning, research and employment opportunities for our students.
Mike Burton / Head of Department, Professor of Volcanology
Our 3 year BSc degree in Earth and Planetary Sciences is focussed on a holistic understanding of Earth systems in order to learn from the past, comprehend the present and influence the future. As Earth Science is at the crossroads of the natural sciences, it provides an enriching alternative to a single honours degree in subjects such as maths, physics, chemistry, geography or biology, and can open the door to an exciting range of career options.
On our course you will learn to read the 4.5 billion-year record of the Earth, including the formation of our solar system, the evolution of living systems and changing environmental conditions, while also studying the sustainable development of Earth's energy and resources. And on your doorstep will be some of the UK's wildest settings, ideal for outdoor learning.
During your time with us you will be a part of a dynamic community trying to answer some of the most pressing global issues that we all face. Your work could make a contribution to solving some of the world's greatest challenges.
Course structureOur BSc in Earth and Planetary Sciences is a three year degree which offers you the flexibility to tailor your interest in Earth and Planetary Science in one of six pathways:
- Geology;
- Geochemistry;
- Planetary science;
- Energy and resources;
- Geology with physical geography;
- Palaeobiology.
We are a Department of environmental scientists, geologists, chemists, mathematicians, biologists, physicists and computer scientists, who work together to study the Earth and planets. Our degrees cover the full breadth of earth and environmental sciences, reflecting the main research themes that are fundamental to the work we do in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.
The reputation of Earth and Planetary Science at The University of Manchester's Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences rests on our world-leading interdisciplinary research into processes operating on, within and beyond the Earth. This research incorporates biological, chemical, physical and environmental aspects of the world and solar system we live in. The close alignment between our teaching and research ensures that units are delivered by scholars who are at the forefront of their disciplines.
SkillsOur course will equip you with an armoury of skills to take into the world of work, including the ability to analyse problems, to work collaboratively as part of a team, and to develop field, laboratory, numeracy and communication skills.
Special features

- Study in one of the largest departments of Earth and Environmental Science, giving access to a wide range of specialisms;
- An integrated natural science first year, tailored to the Earth, planets and their environments, allows you to discover where your interests lie;
- Develop knowledge and practical skills that you can apply to interpreting and predicting the Earth's structure and resources;
- Field trips are a key component of our undergraduate degrees, providing you the opportunity to travel to fascinating locations in the UK and abroad in every year. Fees include all compulsory, taught field courses. Previous locations include: Spain; France; Guatemala; Italy; Montserrat; Nicaragua; Scotland; USA and Wales;
- Transfer onto a 4-year MEarthSci to gain significant research experience, with the option to incorporate a year in industry , complete a research placement or study at an international university .
Teaching and learning
We take pride in our excellent teaching standards, and our distinguished lecturers and research staff will ensure that you have all the support available to develop your learning, skills and employability prospects.
You will benefit from a wide range of teaching and learning methods that suit the content and aims of each course unit, including:
- Formal lectures
- Laboratory classes
- Field classes
- Small-group tutorials
Two-thirds of your contact time will be focussed on the development of practical skills. Teamwork, problem-solving and field work play a key role in integrating all the elements of your subject, and will also develop transferable skills across areas of specialisation, enabling you to succeed in your future career.
Field work
Field work is a key component of our undergraduate degrees and is an essential part of all our courses and provides a unique learning experience:
- Field work gives you the chance to apply knowledge learned in lectures and practical classes to real settings, allowing you to develop the skills of a professional earth and environmental scientist, such as observing, collecting, recording and interpreting a range of data;
- Venues vary from classic areas of the British Isles to locations across the globe. Field courses are tailored to meet the needs of each pathway;
- Most field courses are residential and provide a great chance to form friendships with staff and your fellow students in an informal setting, and to travel and experience different cultures.
Our department has a diverse mix of respected lecturers and research staff who are at the forefront of their fields. Find out more about our lecturers, researchers and support staff in the department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, including information about their specific areas of interest and research, qualifications and publications.
Personal academic advisorThroughout your degree course, you'll be assigned an Academic Advisor, who is there to support you and give advice about any academic issues throughout the duration of your course. Your advisor will be able to help you with the transition from school or college to university and can help you get to grips with studying and learning more independently. They'll also be able to help you develop your skills in academic writing or research, making presentations, or any other skills that are specific to your degree programme.
Peer support schemeOur peer support scheme is one of the largest in Europe. Peer mentors are higher-year students on the same degree programme as you, who will help you find your feet when you arrive here and adjust to student life. As they'll have already been a student at Manchester for at least a year, they should be able to help you with anything you might be worried or unsure about.
PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions)Led by volunteer students, PASS sessions will often be based around a specific area of study. You'll have the opportunity to consolidate and build on your existing knowledge through discussion with other students in an informal and supportive environment, where you can compare notes, analyse, ask questions and talk through ideas.
Research projectYou'll also undertake an independent project in Year 3 that is tailored to your chosen pathway.
Coursework and assessment
This course is assessed by a variety of methods, including:
- Exams;
- Essays and written assignments;
- Projects;
- Oral and written presentations;
- Field assessment.
We place a strong emphasis on practical skills and project work. Around one-third of your assessment in year 3 on independent research projects.
Course unit details
Our Earth and Planetary Science course covers all major aspects of the earth system. The course has a common first year, allowing you to choose your degree specialisation that you will follow in years 2 and 3. You will develop core knowledge alongside a choice of optional units.
Course content for year 1
Our first year will introduce you to the modern way we study the Earth. The emphasis in the first year is on building foundational knowledge in the natural sciences, tailored to the Earth, planets and their environments, and on developing practical and transferrable skills.
During this year you will study the principles that underlie all our degree specialisations and will receive one-on-one advice to help you choose your preferred pathway at the end of the first year. Every first year student will be supported by our peer mentoring schemes and small group work with an academic tutor.
The first year units will develop your theoretical knowledge, your numerical, field and laboratory skills, and aid your professional development.
Course units for year 1
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Understanding the Earth | EART11100 | 40 | Mandatory |
The Natural Scientist's Toolkit | EART11200 | 40 | Mandatory |
Practical and Professional Skills Development | EART11300 | 40 | Mandatory |
Course content for year 2
In year 2 you will tailor your studies to your own academic interests by focusing on a particular aspect of the Earth and planetary sciences. Each pathway consists of a series of core units and extends topics from your first year, introducing new areas in your area of specialisation.
For an indicative list of the course units for each pathway, please click on the links below:
Geology - The Earth's rocks and minerals preserve a 4.5 billion year record of global change. In this pathway you will learn how to read that rock record and develop an understanding of the physical processes responsible for it.
Planetary Science - In this pathway you will gain the skills of a professional geologist while pursuing a broader interest in planetary science, developing an understanding of how the Earth and other planets have been shaped by the prehistory, formation and evolution of our solar system.
Geochemistry - Understanding the chemistry of the Earth is fundamental to challenges such as managing resources like precious minerals and oil, understanding climate change at the molecular level, and the control of pollution. In this pathway you will also study the composition and evolution of the planets, melting and mineral reactions in Earth's interior, and Earth's (bio)geochemical cycles.
Energy and Resources - In this pathway you'll study units that are focussed on resource formation, ranging from metal and hydrocarbon resources, to nuclear energy and groundwater resources. You will also study sustainable and efficient extraction of resources, while acquiring the skills suitable for a thriving energy and resources job market.
Geology with Physical Geography - In this pathway you will study the processes that have shaped the Earth's surface and its landforms, and how humans and societies have learned to exploit and protect themselves from these phenomena.
Palaeobiology - Palaeobiology addresses major questions relating to the Earth's living systems, their interplay over geological time, and the genesis and evolution of today's living world. This pathway takes an interdisciplinary approach, combining the study of the biodiversity and ecology of modern and ancient life, with training in the geological processes that shape the history and future of Earth.
Course content for year 3
In your final year, you can choose from a wide range of course units made up of core units from within your own pathway specialization units from other pathways offered within the Earth and Planetary Science degree, as well as units from our other degree in Environmental Sciences. A range of units are offered which have an applied focus to help you prepare for your future career, including case studies that will allow you to follow a project, such as the establishment of a mine, from its inception to final abandonment.
Alternatively, you may choose to study a course from the University's College for Interdisciplinary Learning , including our innovative Leadership in Action course, which combines study with volunteering and personal development.
You'll undertake a research project that is tailored to your degree pathway specialisation. You will collect data in the field and laboratory to answer a scientific question of your choice.
Scholarships and bursaries
The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.
For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our undergraduate student finance pages and our the Department funding pages .
Facilities
We teach our practical sessions in custom-designed, well-equipped laboratories with enough space for you to have your own microscope and work comfortably on your own or in a group.
All our courses are driven and inspired by the latest research in the department, so we also give you access to our most advanced and sophisticated research facilities:
Teaching resources- Innovative, research-led, eLearning tools to enhance your understanding;
- A well-equipped, dedicated undergraduate study area providing a place for relaxation and somewhere to work with your fellow students within the Department;
- Close supervision and pastoral care by an academic staff member during the whole degree course.
- Analytical geochemistry unit for analysing water and solid geological matter;
- Scanning electron microscope - for imaging a wide range of samples, from polished rock sections to bacteria to Egyptian mummies;
- Cameca electron probe - used for the quantitative analysis of a wide variety of geological samples;
- In-situ and remote sensing instrumentation for the study of clouds, aerosols, radiation and dynamics;
- Advanced isotope geochemistry and cosmochemistry suite.
The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences has close links with the Manchester Museum and its extensive geological collections.
Disability support
Careers
Career opportunities

I value my time at The University of Manchester.
Studying at a world-leading academic institution which also has strong ties to industry is a great way to start your career.
Rosanne Mckernan / MEarthSci graduate, Exploration Geoscientist at Shell
We work closely together with graduate employers to ensure that the training our undergraduates receive during their Earth and Planetary Sciences degree equips them for getting a great graduate job and excelling in it.
Our close links with employers highlight the key skills they desire in our graduates. Key amongst these is an enthusiasm for learning. In the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences we are passionate about our work on climate science, ecosystem conservation, micro-plastic pollution, dinosaur evolution, volcanoes, Earth's formation and the distribution of resources within it. This passion is shared with our students, producing an enthusiasm and capacity for learning which serves them throughout their careers and lives.
Typical professions our graduates go on to include:
- Scientific research;
- Public policy;
- Environmental consultancy and earth resources;
- Teaching;
- Finance and blue-chip management.
Further key skills sought by graduate employers are flexible problem-solving using a variety of approaches, teamwork, communication skills, numeracy and computer programming. Our graduates are trained in these skills from day one of their degrees.
InternshipsWith our support, Manchester undergraduates successfully apply each year for highly competitive summer internships across the globe. Prestigious destinations include summer internships with the Lunar and Planetary Institute, USA, working one-on-one with NASA scientists, participating in peer-reviewed research.