Earth and Environmental Science

取得日期：2026-10-02、2026-10-16

https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/earth-and-environmental-science-bsc-hons-ff68/2027/

https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/international-students/hong-kong/

Earth and Environmental Science BSc Hons (FF68) - Lancaster University

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Earth and Environmental Science

BSc Hons

UCAS code

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A level requirements

Duration

Full time 3 years

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Overview

Top reasons to study with us

7th for Earth & Marine Sciences (career after 15 months)

The Guardian University Guide (2027)

10th for Geography & Environmental Science (joint)

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2027)

13th for Geography & Environmental Science

The Complete University Guide (2027)

Earth scientists are essential to tackling the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. From geological hazards to resource provision and climate change, they research current issues to uncover future solutions. By choosing to do a degree in Earth and environmental science, you will embark on an exciting and vital exploration of the natural environment, with opportunities to see first-hand the real-world impacts of environmental hazards and the strategies developed as a response. When you graduate, you will enter a global job market where environmentally focused professionals are highly sought after.

What to expect

Our three-year BSc Hons Earth and Environmental Science degree begins by building your understanding of geology, the Earth’s interior and the atmosphere, weather and climate systems.

In Year 2, you will build on these themes, exploring specific topics such as geological field skills, soil science, and glacial systems.

In Year 3, you will have a choice of topics and will apply your knowledge to a dissertation project. This will be an opportunity to research a topic of interest through fieldwork, laboratory-based research, or computer modelling.

Getting out in the field

Alongside your classroom and lab-based studies, you will gain hands-on experience conducting research in real-world environments on a local, regional, and global scale. You may take part in overseas field courses to study volcanic processes and impact management, glacial processes, or the management of environmental challenges. On top of that, you will engage in fieldwork closer to home in the Lake District World Heritage Site and Yorkshire Dales.

Personal development

Throughout your degree, you will gain a variety of transferable skills that are valued by employers, including communication and information technology skills, data handling, environmental sampling, and analysis.

3 things our Earth and Environmental Science students want you to know:

There’s no better way to understand Earth and environmental science than by learning on location and there are plenty of opportunities to do this! You will take a hands-on approach to studying the environment, tackling real challenges and the impact that creating a solution could have

Lancaster’s Earth science staff specialise in volcanology, geophysics, hydrogeology, and glaciology. There’s always someone to ask about your specific interest! You will also be assigned an academic tutor who will be your first point of contact for support on your course

The theme of sustainability is woven throughout the degree and life on campus. Many students are part of LUSU Green, a group run by the Students’ Union that is driving change across the campus and beyond to create a thriving natural environment, reduce carbon emissions, and train the sustainability leaders of the future

Your department

Lancaster Environment Centre

Faculty of Science and Technology

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Telephone +44 (0)1524 510249

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Why Earth and Environmental Science at Lancaster?

Discover what studying Earth and Environmental Sciences at Lancaster is like from our students and academics.

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90.2% Overall positivity score in Environmental Science, National Student Survey 2026.

100% positivity score for Academic Support in Environmental Science, National Student Survey 2026.

91.7% positivity score for Learning Resources in Environmental Science, National Student Survey 2026.

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Course accreditation

This programme is accredited by the Community for Environmental Disciplines in Higher Education (CEDHE), the education committee of the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES). CEDHE is the collective voice of the environmental sciences academic community and serves to enhance the quality of environmental education worldwide. A programme accredited by CEDHE is assured to meet high standards, contain a strong component of practical, field and theoretical activities, and has excellent opportunities for training, work experience and links to the professional environmental sector. Students enrolled on CEDHE-accredited programmes can apply for free Student Membership of the IES and for a fast-track route to membership once they graduate. This programme is aligned with the academic requirements for Registered Environmental Practitioner (REnvP) and starts graduates on a route towards becoming a Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) or Chartered Scientist (CSci).

Learn more about the CEDHE accreditation

Earth and environmental sciences are pivotal in helping today’s society take on the most pressing environmental challenges. This increasingly important area of study means that more and more global jobs are becoming available, and as a graduate of the environmental sciences, you can make a difference using your specialist knowledge of the local, regional, and global impact our actions have on the world, and vice versa. Environmentally focused careers include Environmental Consultant, Weather Forecaster, Conservation Officer, Sustainability Consultant, Toxicologist, Wastewater Manager, Hydrologist and many, many more. You may wish to continue in academia or work in a non-environmental role where your skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, data handling, project management and commercial awareness make you an in-demand graduate. Graduates from our courses are also well-paid, with the median salary of graduates from Lancaster Environment Centre being £28,500 15 months after graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025).

Here are just some of the roles that our BSc and MSci Earth and Environmental Science students have progressed into upon graduating:

Field Scientist – Thames Water

Strategic Planning Manager – United Utilities

Junior Volcanologist – GeoTenerife

Environmental Business Analyst – CCm Technologies

Sustainability and Climate Change Consulting Associate – PwC UK

Researcher – Lancaster Environment Centre

Telemetry Technician – Severn Water

Environment Officer – Environment Agency

PhD Candidate – University of Cambridge

Renewable Energy Analyst – Certi-fi

Geo-Environmental Graduate - Delta Simons Environmental Consultants

Carbon Footprint Analyst - Freelance

Lancaster University is dedicated to ensuring you not only gain a highly reputable degree, you also graduate with the relevant life and work based skills. We are unique in that every student is eligible to participate in The Lancaster Award which offers you the opportunity to complete key activities such as work experience, employability/career development, campus community and social development. Visit our Employability section for full details.

Skills for your future

A degree in the Earth and Environmental Sciences will provide you with both a specialist and transferable skill set sought after by employers across a wide range of sectors.

Placement Year

Choosing a Placement pathway degree involves spending the third year of your four-year degree working full-time in a business. Many students find that a placement year helps them to decide which career path they would like to take. The experience will give you a strong advantage when looking for employment after your degree.

Learning on Location

From upland fells of Cumbria, and the remote corners of the Scottish Hebrides, to the upper slopes of a volcano, there are opportunities to get hands-on experience working in the field, apply laboratory skills necessary to excel within the environmental sector and gain experience to excel beyond your degree.

Teaching Career Success

In your second year, as part of our teaching we invite alumni and partners from different employers to meet LEC students, providing you with insight into the graduate labour market, as well as providing you with the tools to successfully transition into the world of work.

An adventure for Harry

I have recently returned from a year abroad in Canada, where I studied an Earth Science concentration at the University of Waterloo. Studying abroad had always been far outside of my comfort zone, as I had grown up in a small corner of the North East of England, and had not been particularly well travelled in years prior. I had decided to transfer onto the study abroad variant of my course in the summer before starting first year, after researching the programme further and finding that it would enable me to experience new cultures abroad, and to travel and explore a country which I had never been to before.

By completing a year abroad, I believe that my social confidence has definitely increased, and I feel more resilient than before. Of course, the teaching I have received has been helpful but this opportunity has also opened the door to a wider cultural understanding. The experience has also enabled me to network with students and researchers abroad and has inspired me to consider continuing my studies in Canada, under the supervision of the faculty I worked with whilst I was there. This opportunity has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Harry Barnes, BSc Earth and Environmental Science (Study Abroad)

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Considering a placement year in LEC?

"I completed a placement year as part of my degree at Lancaster. This means that in my third year I spent 10 months gaining experience, before returning to Lancaster to complete my degree. I did my placement with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s WildGenes genetics laboratory. This entailed working on-site in a lab at Edinburgh Zoo as well as learning to use genetics and DNA extractions to help support conservation efforts worldwide.

As someone who came straight to university from high school, my placement was the first time in my life I hadn’t been in education. It was a real shock to not have classes to attend or assignments to do, but more importantly, it helped to show me what life might look like beyond academics. The biggest learning curve I had to face wasn’t any of the lab techniques or new concepts, but seeing myself as an employee rather than a student. As I adjusted to my new role and developed skills in and out of the lab, my confidence grew, and I became more comfortable in putting forward my ideas and trusting my intuition. Now I feel self-assured applying for postgraduate study knowing that I have a broad skill set of both academic and practical skills that I can expand on in applications and interviews. If you have the opportunity to do a placement year, take it. You will learn more about yourself and your career aspirations that you could possibly imagine!"

Aimée Olivia Ewington - BSc Hons Zoology (Placement Year)

Find a list of all our Lancaster Environment Centre undergraduate placement year programmes

A place for Lyea

“I chose Lancaster University because it has high quality teaching, research, STEM facilities, career focused degrees, careers support and developmental opportunities on campus. I then chose a BSc in Earth and Environmental Science, as it would help me develop the knowledge, skills and competencies I would need for my future career.

I appreciate how supportive staff are, and that the facilities, equipment and study spaces are all of high quality. For my course specifically, the equipment used is the same as in the professional world, and I appreciate the exposure to equipment I would be using in my future career.

During my work placements, I got to see how the skills, and competencies learned in the lab and field at university transfer to my career.

One of my field trip experiences was to Scotland for a mapping course. We drove to Scotland, took a ferry to one of the islands, stayed in accommodation and spent a week learning mapping out in the field. It supported my future career through learning field techniques in addition to skills like leadership and teamwork.

I love that Lancaster has woodland walks and that it is a sustainable campus with opportunities to plant trees, compost and recycle!”

Lyea Rivers – BSc Earth and Environmental Science

A future for Marta

“I really enjoyed working closely with the local farming community during my PhD, particularly translating my scientific research into practical solutions. This experience made me feel that my work had real value and impact.

As a result, I decided to pursue a career where I could continue applying science to address real-world challenges in agriculture. I was therefore delighted to secure a role as a Soil Health Advisor at the Environment Agency, where my work focuses on supporting farmers in transitioning towards more sustainable and holistic soil management practices, with the aim of reducing diffuse agricultural pollution.

I moved on from that role and I am now a Senior Agricultural Advisor. My role is more strategic – I work on advising the government on future regulations around nutrient application and nutrient losses in the agricultural sector. I still use my academic training to marshal fact in a logic and clear way, providing evidence and constructive arguments for the government to consider.”

Marta Cattin – studied PhD Environmental Science, now working as a Senior Agricultural Advisor

Our Facilities

International Field Sites

We work across the tropical forests of South America and Malaysia where researchers and students have been operating since 2003.

Environmental Chemistry Laboratories

Our chemistry laboratories have among the best analytical facilities in the world for environmental organic chemistry research.

Hazelrigg Weather Station

Our Hazelrigg Weather Station has been making daily weather observations at Lancaster University since 1966, allowing you to explore a continuous and high-quality record of weather patterns as a part of your degree!

Research Glasshouses

Our 15 purpose-built glasshouse modules provide flexible growth facilities dedicated to our full range of plant science and ecological research.

Teaching Labs

Our new £4.4 million teaching laboratories feature cutting-edge laboratory and teaching equipment, giving you the best environment to begin your degree.

Student research projects

Our students work on a number of exciting, challenging and rewarding projects throughout their time studying. From first assignments to final dissertations, student projects are an excellent way of celebrating success within a professional research-led community.

Field trip to Switzerland, LiDAR scanner project, and work at JBA Consulting!

“In the final year of my degree, there was an opportunity to go on a field course to Switzerland. Whilst on this trip, each student was asked to come up with and carry out their own project. I decided I wanted to use my iPhone as a LiDAR scanner to create a 3D CFD model of a glacial river. I completed the project successfully. FLOW-3D, the company whose CFD software I had used to create the CFD model, were very interested in my work and asked me to present the project at their European Users Conference in Lisbon, Portugal.

While at the conference, I was approached by FLOW-3D about doing an internship with them to develop and publish my work. Once I had done this, I presented the project to JBA Consulting and Network Rail who I thought would benefit from the technique. From this presentation, JBA Consulting asked if I would like to join their Hydrology and Flood Risk Modelling team. I was able to use my hydrology knowledge from modules I’d completed at Lancaster during my time at JBA. I will soon be starting my MSc in Disaster Management and Sustainable Development with Advanced Practice at Northumbria University in September.”

Lucy Collier – BSc Earth and Environmental Science

Our societies

Looking to join a community of like-minded Lancaster Environment Centre students? Look no further!

“LECSoc is a welcoming society with a strong sense of community for students studying LEC degrees, as well as those from other departments. We run regular socials including craft nights and pub quizzes, perfect for meeting new friends. We also run educational events with guest speakers. If you want to find out more, follow us on Instagram. We hope to meet you soon!”

Emily Kerin – LECSoc Co-president

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

Qualifications and typical requirements accordion

Show all sections

A levels

BBB. This should include one science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology.

Access to HE Diploma

Considered on a case-by-case basis. Our typical entry requirement would be 24 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 21 Level 3 credits at Merit, but you would need to have covered appropriate subject content.

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDM to include sufficient science. We require Distinctions in the majority of relevant science units. Not all science-based BTECs will include sufficient relevant science units. Please contact the Admissions Team for further advice.

BTEC in combination with A levels

Our typical entry requirement would be A level at grade B plus BTEC(s) at DM, or A level at grade C plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade BC plus BTEC at D, but you would also need to meet the subject requirements, and achieve appropriate grades in those subjects.

International Baccalaureate

30 points overall with 15 points from the best 3 HL subjects including one HL science subject at grade 6

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Considered on a case by case basis. T level in Science may be accepted at Merit, with an A in core component.

GCSE requirements

Mathematics grade 4/C, English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.

Help from our Admissions team

If you are thinking of applying to Lancaster and you would like to ask us a question, complete our enquiry form and one of the team will get back to you.

We also have more details on our website about:

Other qualifications we accept

International qualifications

How to apply and what happens afterwards

International foundation programmes

Delivered in partnership with Lancaster University International Study Centre, our one-year tailored foundation pathways are designed to improve your subject knowledge and English language skills to the level required by a range of Lancaster University degrees. Visit the Lancaster University International Study Centre for more details and a list of eligible degrees you can progress onto.

Contextual admissions

Contextual admissions could help you gain a place at university if you have faced additional challenges during your education which might have impacted your results. Visit our contextual admissions page to find out about how this works and whether you could be eligible.

Course structure

We continually review and enhance our curriculum to ensure we are delivering the best possible learning experience, and to make sure that the subject knowledge and transferable skills you develop will prepare you for your future. The University will make every reasonable effort to offer programmes and modules as advertised. In some cases, changes may be necessary and may result in new modules or some modules and combinations being unavailable, for example as a result of student feedback, timetabling, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes and new research. Where the course offers optional modules, they may not all be available every year.

core modules accordion

Atmosphere, Weather and Climate

This module introduces atmospheric and climate science, combining theory with observations, to help you develop an understanding of the physical behaviour of the atmosphere and the Earth’s climate system. You’ll explore the structure and characteristics of the atmosphere, the physical principles that govern its behaviour and how these lead to the everyday weather we observe. The module also covers the broader role of the atmosphere and the greenhouse effect in regulating Earth’s climate. You’ll gain an overview of the different components of the climate system, their interactions and feedback, explore evidence of past climates and consider how human activities may influence future climate.

Biodiversity and Global Change

Conservation of biodiversity is crucial in a rapidly changing world. This module explores how biodiversity is generated, maintained and distributed across the planet, providing a foundation in biodiversity patterns and processes. You'll examine ecological and evolutionary drivers of biodiversity, from speciation and extinction to ecosystem dynamics. In the ‘threats and responses’ part, you’ll assess human-induced pressures such as climate change, habitat loss, pollution and overexploitation, alongside species’ ecological and evolutionary adaptations to these challenges. Finally, the solution section explores conservation strategies, including habitat restoration, species management, sustainable resource use and agricultural interventions. Drawing on examples from terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, you’ll develop an evidence-based understanding of conservation challenges. This module provides essential knowledge to help develop solutions for addressing the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

Introduction to Practical Environmental Science

Gain the practical environmental skills needed to make the transition from school or employment to studying environmental science or Earth science at university. You’ll learn how to accurately record both qualitative and quantitative observations when working in laboratory, field and computer-based settings. Numerical aptitude, scientific proficiency and visualisation techniques will then help you interpret your observations for assessment and other purposes.

Foundation Skills for LEC

Whether studying climate change, habitat loss, or sustainable development, these fields require the ability to identify relevant information, organise data, draw meaningful inferences and communicate findings effectively. This module introduces you to some of the essential skills that you will need to support your studies, including how to access and critique existing information, present findings to a variety of audiences and consider ethical issues related to research design. We introduce you to key software programs that can be used to store and process information, produce figures and summaries from datasets and map spatial data. Mastering these skills will help you to maximise your learning potential during your degree and provide a foundation for your future career.

Study the dynamic way in which the Earth works and gain the tools to interpret the Earth processes that have formed the planet on which we live. This module gives you an understanding of the processes that create the solid outer surface of our planet. Minerals, rocks and sediments are critical natural resources that underpin the resilience and survival of the human population and we consider these in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The way in which minerals, rocks, sediments, landforms and fossils are initially created and subsequently change or deform, is taught in the framework of the geological timescale, plate tectonics and igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary processes. Experience will be gained in outdoor field and indoor laboratory skills. You will examine geological landscapes, samples and maps and use microscopes in a laboratory environment.

Catchment Science

The movement of nutrients and pollutants through catchments is controlled by soils, water flows and pollutant transformations. Improving the water quality of lakes and rivers requires an integrated catchment-based approach. Building on knowledge of water flows, soils and nutrient cycling, this module applies this approach to the Windermere catchment. You’ll visit the Lake District to study lake inflows, the soils of the catchment and water quality parameters. You’ll learn how to describe complex systems using simple models and how to carry out field measurements, followed by laboratory analyses of the samples collected in the field.

Environmental Data Analysis and Visualisation

This module provides a strong foundation in the data analysis and programming techniques essential for environmental and Earth scientists. You’ll be introduced to computer programming as a tool for analysing and visualising environmental data. You’ll develop the skills to work with large data sets and modelling systems, which are now central to environmental science. The module covers the fundamental tools of programming: running code in interactive development environments, editing, commenting, debugging and using variables, loops, conditional statements and functions. You’ll then apply these tools to carry out statistical analysis, test hypotheses and visualise data in a way that supports your understanding of the environmental and Earth sciences.

Environmental Field Skills

Develop your key environmental and Earth science field skills that bring together laboratory, analytical and interpretative approaches. This will allow you to critically examine a contemporary environmental challenge, such as the potential contamination of water courses by historic mining activity. You will learn important field skills that span a range of relevant disciplines including geology, hydrology and erosion, and apply these during a residential field trip to the Lake District. Subsequent laboratory analysis will allow you to measure water chemistry to determine the extent of contamination and you will apply a range of statistical techniques to process and interpret your results. You will learn how to present your results in a professional manner in the form of an environmental report.

Geologic Mapping

Having the skills and confidence to work outdoors is key for many Earth scientists. This module will provide you with context and training in geologic field skills. Geologic maps provide information about processes on and beneath the Earth's surface. Useful in both commercial and academic work, they show the geographic distribution of rocks and sediments at the Earth's surface; they can be used to determine the histories of past events and locations of subsurface resources. This module, with workshops ahead of a residential held on the Isle of Mull, Scotland, provides training in geologic mapping plus a visual demonstration of geologic processes. You will collect field data to make a geologic map, in parallel with learning how to record information in field notebooks, use professional geologist’s tools, map read and navigate, keep safe in the field and work effectively both within a team and as a team leader.

Geoscience in Practice

This hands-on module introduces the theory behind key geological processes. You’ll also gain practical laboratory and field skills to help you interpret geological data and understand the geological evolution of the Earth. You’ll explore how natural resources form through geological processes. You’ll also consider how these resources are extracted and the impact this has on the environment and sustainability. Teaching takes place through lectures, laboratory practicals and field trips. You’ll develop core practical skills and learn how to apply theoretical knowledge to interpret geological processes. You’ll also collect and analyse field data. This data will be integrated with geological maps and existing knowledge to help you interpret the geological history of a region.

Optional

optional modules accordion

Atmospheric Science

Deepen your understanding of the atmospheric physics and chemistry that govern weather systems, atmospheric composition and air pollution. You will explore the physical and dynamic properties of the atmosphere and how they influence air movement - from small-scale flows to global circulation patterns such as monsoons and El Niño.

You will examine the factors affecting important atmospheric trace gases and study the key chemical processes behind urban air pollution, acid rain and stratospheric ozone depletion.

Practical sessions and a field trip to our Hazelrigg meteorological station will introduce you to observing and reporting atmospheric conditions. You will also learn how these observations support meteorological analyses and forecasts. Lab-based activities will reinforce your understanding of chemical reaction rates and provide hands-on experience with standard air quality monitoring techniques.

Glaciology

Building on your earlier introduction to glacial systems, this module takes a deeper dive into how glaciers shape landscapes and interact with people and ecosystems. You’ll explore glacial processes in greater detail and begin to see how they connect across space and time. As you progress, you’ll be encouraged to critically engage with current research and understand how physical geographers interpret and contribute to this growing body of knowledge. By the end, you’ll be better equipped to identify how glaciology can inform environmental management and benefit both society and the natural environment.

Hydrology and Water Quality

Employers in the UK and internationally are increasingly looking for graduates with professional skills in hydrology and water quality. These include environmental consultancies, water companies, government regulators and environmental or humanitarian charities. In this module, you'll learn how water and pollutants move through surface and subsurface environments. You'll also explore the latest theories and technologies professionals use, including monitoring tools and modelling techniques. Real-world examples show how these approaches are applied. Topics include the impact of climate change on water resources, flood mitigation through natural methods and the nitrate time bomb in groundwater. You'll gain hands-on experience with both field measurements and lab-based modelling.

Soil Science

Soils are one of the most important, yet often overlooked, resources on the planet. Almost all our food relies on soil - it is the largest active store of carbon. The water we drink is stored and filtered through soils and they support over half of the planet’s biodiversity. In this module you will explore how soils are formed and the underpinning chemical, physical and biological processes that support the major biogeochemical cycles and life itself. We go on to explore some of the threats to soils, including soil erosion and salinisation and what we might do to mitigate them and then consider how soils are linked to the wider environment. You will be taught through a combination of lectures, a walking field lecture, fieldwork looking at soil profiles and laboratory classes to explore this exciting world beneath our feet.

Dissertation

Conduct an independent research project on a specific topic within your field of study and present your findings in an extensive report. Throughout your project, you will receive one-to-one support from a member of academic staff. This is the largest piece of work that you will complete during your degree and, depending on your subject area, it will enable you to develop skills including formulating a research question; contextualising it within research literature; identifying and using appropriate research methods and techniques with which to address your question; collecting and analysing data; and interpreting your findings. Overall, the aim is to demonstrate your ability to conduct rigorous, independent academic work and communicate its outcomes clearly and effectively.

Environmental Geophysics

Geophysical techniques help you explore the subsurface environment in a minimally invasive way just like doctors use X-rays or MRIs to investigate the human body. You'll get to know a broad range of methods, including ground penetrating radar, electrical, seismic, gravity and magnetic techniques. Some of these can even be deployed using airborne or waterborne sensors.

You’ll learn the basic principles behind each method and how to interpret the data they generate, with hands-on practical training throughout. In addition, you’ll explore the strengths and limitations of each technique and see how they’re used in real-world contexts, from groundwater studies and pollutant mapping to glaciology, agriculture, geohazards, archaeology and forensic investigations. You’ll also be introduced to some of the latest innovations in environmental geophysics, such as the use of uncrewed vehicles and distributed fibre optic sensing.

Climate Change

The science and policy landscape around climate change, widely regarded as humanity’s biggest challenge, is rapidly evolving. This module covers climate change causes and effects, equipping you with a rounded understanding of underpinning processes and the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate and debate key contemporary issues. Fundamental carbon and energy balance concepts are introduced to explore how natural and anthropogenic forces (e.g. greenhouse gases) have shaped Earth’s climate since the industrial revolution and throughout geological time. Using real data, you will learn how changes to Earth’s climate are observed and modelled, appreciating uncertainties and how research is synthesised then communicated. Key aspects of current climate debates are explored, including geoengineering options versus conventional mitigation. With case studies, the successes and challenges of international climate policy and climate impacts at a range of scales are discussed.

Cryosphere in a Changing Climate

The cryosphere holds a significant portion of Earth's fresh water, yet it faces growing threats from a warming climate. In this module, you'll explore the cryosphere as part of a wider environmental system, drawing on current research to understand how these frozen regions function and why they matter. Starting with the physical processes that influence the behaviour of ice masses, such as meltwater production and its effect on ice flow, you'll then examine the cryosphere's far-reaching impacts on downstream environments. By viewing glaciers as ecosystems, you'll uncover their role in sea-level changes, ecological interactions and climate feedbacks. You'll also gain insight into how scientists study these environments, using methods including fieldwork (like ice core sampling), remote sensing and modelling to monitor change and predict future outcomes.

Geological Hazards

Geological hazards, especially earthquakes, landslides and volcanic eruptions, endanger lives and livelihoods – disproportionately in vulnerable areas – and cause economic losses and infrastructure damage. Effective hazard management requires detailed understanding of the underlying physical processes, use of appropriate monitoring techniques to assess hazards and rigorous policymaking. In this module you’ll learn, via numerous case studies, how the boundaries of our knowledge of geological hazards are advanced by ongoing research. You’ll gain understanding of why landslides occur and the geomechanical models underpinning slope failure analysis and why faults slip. You will look at the probabilistic models used in seismic hazard assessment and how volcanic unrest and eruption relates to physical processes in magmatic systems. You will gain employability-relevant experience of geological hazards, which integrates field, remote sensing and modelling approaches and includes a site survey of a local landslide. You will thus develop systematic and creative approaches to identifying and solving problems.

Managing the Energy Transition

How are we transforming the way we supply and use energy to achieve our climate targets? In this cross-disciplinary module you will look at the major changes underway within our energy system. You will examine decarbonisation pathways in electricity, transport and heat, whilst considering supply and demand dynamics and carbon removal. Investigate real-world challenges including how to govern the energy system, economics, societal engagement and energy security. Through a combination of lecture, workshop and field-based activities, you will gain a ‘whole system view’ cutting across disciplines, enabling you to refine your critical thinking skills and ability to weigh up the opportunities and challenges associated with energy decarbonisation. You will benefit from real-world insight through understanding the university energy system and contributions to the course from energy professionals. The knowledge and skills develop will position you for further study or employment focused on a major societal challenge.

Sustainable Agriculture

Despite delivering abundant cheap food, farmers and society have economic, environmental and social concerns about our modern resource-intensive agricultural systems. Explore the strengths and weaknesses of current intensive and proposed extensive agricultural systems by examining their food production, resource use, efficiency and environmental impacts. You’ll be introduced to key sustainability metrics such as carbon and water footprints and delve into the biological mechanisms behind a range of agronomic techniques. The module also looks at how agriculture contributes to ecosystem services. Through hands-on workshop sessions, you’ll compare microbial inoculants (bio-fertilisers) with synthetic fertilisers in a greenhouse-based plant growth trial and take part in a virtual farm management exercise to identify strategies for making UK agriculture more economically and environmentally sustainable.

The Earth's Interior

We inhabit a wafer-thin veneer that floats on a dynamic planetary interior. Explore the structure and evolution of the Earth's interior and how internal processes such as convection of the outer core and mantle have influenced the Earth system, including plate tectonics, climate and life. You will learn about seismology and other techniques that are used to study the Earth's deep interior, how Earth cools, the geomagnetic field and understand how volcanism is produced by partial melting of the upper mantle. Learn how the behaviour of the Earth’s interior determines the stability of Earth’s atmosphere and oceans and consequently the ecosphere we depend upon; however, the Earth’s interior can also produce rapid surface change that alters the trajectory of evolution.

Volcanic Processes Field Course

Develop your theoretical and practical knowledge of volcanic processes by studying the evolution of a basaltic volcano. Pre-trip classroom sessions are used to support the main residential field trip component of the module. The module covers the intricate volcanic processes occurring both on the surface and beneath the Earth’s crust, examining geological evidence of both constructional events (like eruptions and intrusions) and destructive events (such as collapses). Through fieldwork, you’ll interpret observations across scales, from millimetres to kilometres, linking them to the volcanic processes that drive them. By taking a problem-based learning approach, you'll tackle large-scale challenges, like understanding magmatic plumbing systems and their role in hazard analysis and mitigation.

Teaching, Outreach and Public Engagement

Do you want to entertain and inspire children and the public in STEM? With an introduction to teaching as well as wider engagement opportunities, learn how to understand your audience and how to engage and enliven them. You will also learn how to balance this with educating them and presenting science in a way that’s appropriate to your audience. We include an introduction to pedagogy, how to inspire school pupils and how to use traditional and new media for science communication.

You will deliver an activity of your choosing to an audience. This could be a lesson at school, engaging with children at a large outreach event or delivering a public lecture. In addition, you will also reflect on your activity to discuss what you’ve learnt and what changes you would make. You can deliver this by either video, podcast or article.

Water Resources Management

Water is a critical natural resource for you and for all ecosystems. Successfully managing water resources is one of the most fundamental challenges facing society today. If you're aiming for a career in the water sector, you'll need to understand the policy and regulatory frameworks, technologies, and monitoring and classification approaches used to develop, conserve and restore water resources. This module gives you that understanding, drawing primarily on core material from the UK water sector and supported by global case studies where relevant. You’ll explore the management of both surface water and groundwater, tackling issues related to water quality and water availability. Your learning will be enriched through field visits and practical sessions with key UK stakeholders such as the Environment Agency and water companies, helping you gain skills and experience directly relevant to your future career.

Eco-Innovation for Sustainable Development

This module takes a critical and yet hands-on approach to exploring the role of eco-innovation as a pathway towards sustainable development. Through action-learning, you will identify and address real-world sustainability challenges by developing your own eco-innovation proposals – viable ideas with the potential to reduce human impact on the environment whilst simultaneously delivering to the economic and social ambitions of global sustainable development. You will work in small teams, while being introduced to key sustainability concepts and business planning approaches that can be combined to develop effective eco-innovations. Gain valuable transferable skills including team working, problem analysis and framing, and effective oral and written communication to professional and non-academic audiences. By the end of the module, you will have developed a deep understanding of the intersection between sustainability and innovation, along with practical skills and increased confidence to help them drive change in the real world.

Spatial Data Analysis

Our planet is shaped by ongoing geological, climatic and ecological processes that are increasingly dominated by mankind. Everywhere you look you will find change, but not all changes are important. To make informed decisions, we need to know how to test ideas and identify reliable trends. This module will teach you how to overlay spatial layers to answer increasingly complex questions about when and where changes are happening, whether they are connected, what is occurring in locations with incomplete data and to predict the magnitude and distribution of impacts? As more and more data is collected and shared by networked devices, corporations and remote sensing technologies, understanding spatial relationships is crucial. The operations of most industries already depend on geospatial analysts and this module will teach you skills needed to take advantage of the digital age.

Fees and funding

Our annual tuition fee is set for a 12-month session, starting at the beginning of each academic year.

Our Undergraduate Tuition Fees for 2027/28 are:

International

Fees and funding information

Additional fees and funding information accordion

Additional costs

Additional costs for this course

Students will be required to pay for travel to field sites and will have to purchase wet weather clothing, boots and waterproof notebooks for fieldtrips for which the estimated cost is approximately £110. The course offers optional field trips and students will have to pay for any travel and accommodation costs. If students undertake placements then they may incur additional travel costs. Students on certain modules may wish to purchase a hand lens and compass clinometer but these may be borrowed from the Department.

There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.

Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.

College fees

Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small college membership fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

For students starting in 2026 or 2027, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

Computer equipment and internet access

To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.

The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.

Study abroad courses

In addition to travel and accommodation costs, while you are studying abroad, you will need to have a passport and, depending on the country, there may be other costs such as travel documents (e.g. visa or work permit) and any tests and vaccines that are required at the time of travel. Some countries may require proof of funds.

Placement and industry year courses

In addition to possible commuting costs during your placement, you may need to buy clothing that is suitable for your workplace and you may have accommodation costs. Depending on the employer and your job, you may have other costs such as copies of personal documents required by your employer for example.

What is my fee status?

The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status.

Fees in subsequent years

Home fees are subject to annual review, and are liable to rise each year in line with UK government policy. International fees (including EU) are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years.

Fees for study abroad and work placements

We will charge tuition fees to Home undergraduate students on full-year study abroad/work placements in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:

Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard tuition fee

Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard tuition fee

International students on full-year study abroad/work placements will also be charged in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:

Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard international tuition fee during the Study Abroad year

Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard international tuition fee during the Placement year

Please note that the maximum levels chargeable in future years may be subject to changes in Government policy.

Scholarships and bursaries

You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status:

Fee status:

Any fee status

Home students

International students

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We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries.

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Important information

The information on this site relates primarily to the stated entry year and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.

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We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. Find out more about our Charter and student policies.

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課程頁官方原文 BBB. This should include one science subject from: Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology. https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/earth-and-environmental-science-bsc-hons-ff68/2027/ 取得日期：2026-10-02

香港／國際頁官方原文 Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) You will need to pass the HKDSE, with your best three grades ranging from 544 to 5*55. We will take the best three grades from any combination of the following: elective subjects, extended Mathematics, or English Language. https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/international-students/hong-kong/ 取得日期：2026-10-16

院校未公布 DSE 對應等級，請向院校確認。

請查看下方完整入學要求原文，或向院校確認。