Environmental Geology with a Year in Industry

Environmental geology applies the principles and methods of geology to the understanding and management of environmental challenges, many of which have geological dimensions that are not well understood outside the discipline. As the current description of this programme makes clear, environmental geologists work at the forefront of research into some of the most significant threats facing humankind: natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides; and human-caused problems including climate change, pollution of soils and groundwater, and the depletion of mineral and energy resources. Geology provides the knowledge of Earth materials, rock and sediment processes, and geological time that is essential for understanding both how these hazards operate and how they can be monitored, mitigated, and managed.

At Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, University of London, this four-year full-time programme includes a year in industry, giving you extended professional experience in a geological or environmental organisation during your degree. The year in industry is a significant element, connecting academic learning to the real-world practice of environmental geology and substantially strengthening your professional readiness and employability. In your academic studies, you will cover the core areas of geology including mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, sedimentology, and stratigraphy, alongside environmental applications including geohazard assessment, hydrogeology, contaminated land investigation, and environmental impact assessment.

The programme also includes a year abroad, providing international study experience that broadens your exposure to geological settings and challenges beyond the UK.

Fieldwork is central to geological education, and you will spend time in the field examining geological features and environmental issues in real landscapes.

Graduates from environmental geology programmes pursue careers in environmental consultancy and site investigation, engineering geology, hydrogeology and groundwater management, mineral resources and extractive industries, natural hazards and risk management, government environmental agencies, and academic research. Professional qualifications through the Geological Society are available to graduates who meet the relevant requirements. Postgraduate study in environmental geology, hydrogeology, geohazards, or geoscience is a common route for those seeking specialist careers.