Volcanology – the study of one of the Earth's most dynamic processes. From climate change to natural hazards, our Geology (Volcanology) BSc allows you to explore and understand the Earth’s fascinating history. Our modern programme focuses on developing your practical skills through fieldwork and laboratory scenarios, as well as enhancing your employability by offering the opportunity to spend a year working in industry. These essential skills will prepare you for highly valued careers in geology, including volcanologist, seismologist, or geological surveyor.

Course overview

Delve into the inner workings of volcanoes and gain the geological skills to address some of our planet’s major environmental issues. Our Geology (Volcanology) BSc programme will build your comprehensive geology knowledge and skills and provide an in-depth study of volcanic processes and their effects on society.

Never studied Geology before? We've designed this programme to provide you with a solid grounding in the subject during year one, laying the foundation for advanced study in years two and three.

Your geology studies will include exploring Earth’s origins, the evolution of life, and the exploration, extraction, and management of its natural resources. As an interdisciplinary subject, it draws on geography, environmental science, chemistry, biology, and physics. You will develop an understanding of Earth’s and other planets' structures and explore the physical, chemical, and biological processes occurring deep beneath our feet.

Our volcanology pathway allows you to study specialist field techniques, equipment and software to understand different volcanic phenomena. You will explore everything from magma generation deep within the Earth, to the diverse types of volcanic eruptions and the effects of volcanoes on society, ranging from natural hazards to climate change.

We place a strong emphasis on developing practical skills, equipping you with the methods and techniques needed for future employment. You will gain hands-on experience using equipment, samples, and digital resources in our state-of-the-art Central Science Labs while gathering, analysing, and interpreting your own research data through residential and one-day field courses.

Foundation Year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Your future career

Geoscientists play a crucial role in tackling global challenges and supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and the Paris Agreement. Geology graduates are in high demand for their sub-surface knowledge and geoscientific skills, essential for addressing these goals and climate agreements.

Upon graduating, you will possess a strong set of transferable skills applicable to various sectors, including energy, environmental, engineering, education, and consultancy. To become a professional geologist, you will need to gain professional experience after earning your degree and then apply for Chartered Geologist (CGeol) status. Your accredited degree can give you a head start by reducing the required years of experience for chartered status.

Studying our Geology (Volcanology) BSc could lead to careers as a:

Geochemist

Geologist

Geophysicist

Teacher/University lecturer

Volcanologist

Basin Analyst

Exploration Geologist

Geochemist

Duration of study: 3 years / 4 years with international o