This page was last updated on 9 October 2025
Accredited Degrees listed by Subject Area
Geology / Geoscience / Earth Science
Also known as ‘geoscience’ or ‘Earth science’, geology is the study of the structure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth and its natural mineral and energy resources. Geology investigates the processes that have shaped the Earth through its 4500 million (approximate!) year history and uses the rock record to unravel that history. It is concerned with the real world beyond the laboratory and has direct relevance to the needs of society.
Energy, Mining or Quarrying
Many geologists are employed in the petroleum sector, in a huge range of jobs related to the search for and extraction of oil and natural gas. Palaeontology and geophysics are just two of the specialisms. Geologists also work in the nuclear sector, and the growing area of sustainable energy, developing geothermal energy, wind and tidal power.
Working in the mining and quarrying sector involves locating and extracting natural resources including metals and minerals, with applications from agriculture to high-tech industry.
Environmental Geology
Environmental geologists work to address environmental problems affecting water and land, which may have resulted from human activities or natural processes. Many geologists use their knowledge of geochemistry to specialise in remediation of contaminated land, often working for engineering consultancies.
Geophysics
Geophysicists study the physics of the Earth, such as its internal structure, earthquakes, gravity and geomagnetism. It can be deep (aiding understanding of the Earth’s core) or shallow, helping to survey archaeological or construction sites. Geophysics is used to characterise subsurface resources.
Geochemistry
Explores the chemical composition of rocks and fluids and the chemical processes operating within the Earth and on its surface. Geochemistry is used to remediate pollution and locate new mineral deposits or safe water supplies.
Marine Science and Hydrogeology
Marine Science includes ocean chemistry; ocean floor geology; meteorological oceanography; marine biology; and the physical properties of oceans such as waves and currents. Hydrogeologists specialise in underground water and work in a variety of contexts, from exploration and sustainable management of groundwater resources to contamination and flooding.
Palaeontology & Palaeobiology
Palaeontology is the study of fossils, from dinosaurs to microorganisms, how organisms are preserved in the rock record, and their importance as indicators of past environmental change.
Planetary Science
Palaeontology is the study of fossils, from dinosaurs to microorganisms, how organisms are preserved in the rock record, and their importance as indicators of past environmental change.
