Undergraduates

Earth Sciences is the study of the planet we live upon.  We combine physics, chemistry and biology with geology, geography and palaeontology to answer fundamental questions about the origin, development, and future of the Earth. You will receive a rigorous training in the way that our planet works, as well as addressing some of the major issues of our times:

• The origin of the Solar System, the Earth, and Life
• Physics and chemistry of the Earth’s interior
• Plates, mountains, volcanoes and earthquakes
• Interactions between the atmosphere, oceans and the solid earth
• The climate system
• The fate of glaciers and ice sheets
• Chemical and biological evolution of the oceans
• Natural hazards
• Natural resources

The Oxford Earth Sciences department has received the top grading in all teaching and research assessments since national assessments began. A major reason for the success of our undergraduate course is its close link between research and teaching. The emphasis on teaching in Oxford is not just about feeding you information, or getting you through exams: its more about training you to think, to solve problems and to apply your understanding to new situations. You will be taught by some of the world’s best Earth Scientists, with unparalleled access to tutors and lecturers, both formally in the classroom, and more informally on our many field trips. More information about the course can be found through these webpages and also via our Undergraduate Prospectus.

Don’t just take our word for it – see what our students say about us in the Alternative Prospectus, or take a look at the student Case Studies. Our course is accredited by the Geological Society of London, allowing you to progress quickly to Chartered Geologist status in the future.

If using your scientific background to understand your planet appeals to you, then you should choose Earth Sciences at Oxford.