Earth Sciences and Environment

Earth sciences enable you to examine all aspects of our planet, from its formation and the evolution of life through to present-day surface and environmental processes.

What is Earth science?

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If you have an aptitude for science, a sense of adventure for the great outdoors, and a passion for learning about how our planet works, then a career in Earth sciences may be for you.

Earth sciences enable you to examine all aspects of our planet. Explore its formation and the evolution of life through to present-day surface and environmental processes, including the impacts of climate change.

The Earth sciences embrace many natural and physical science subjects, to understand the Earth and its development through time, including:

  • mathematics
  • physics
  • chemistry
  • biology
  • geography

Degrees at the University of Edinburgh

Our undergraduate Earth science degrees are four-year Bachelor of Science degrees (BSc) with honours.

You can also undertake an additional year of study to complete an integrated masters (MEarthSci or MEarthPhys). These integrated masters degrees have a research focus - useful if you anticipate continuing your education into research such as a PhD.

Group of students on the beach posing for a photograph

Environmental geoscience

Environmental geoscience provides a holistic understanding of the factors influencing environmental conditions on Earth.

Not only does it cover the natural processes that have controlled Earth's history, but crucially, how modern human activities are affecting our planet today.

Through this degree, we will explore the physical, chemical and biological processes that control the world’s oceans, atmosphere and ecosystems.

Group of geology students on a field trip to Stonehaven

Earth sciences

Geologists seek to develop a deep understanding of the structure and composition of the Earth.  

This includes the interaction of the many processes that shape the Earth and life on it.

Our new, cutting-edge Earth sciences programme prepares you for advanced careers in the Earth sciences and beyond.

Graduates of our previous geology degree were highly sought-after in various sectors.

We have two degree options for Earth Sciences:

Group of students at the Lake District

Earth science and physical geography

Our programme allows you to combine your understanding of both physical geography and Earth processes to address global challenges.

Explore how oceans, rivers, glaciers, and human impact define the modern and ancient landscape.

We will also examine how these processes, in turn, impact society.

We have two degree options for Earth Science and Physical Geography:

Group of students on a Geophysics field trip

Geophysics (and Geology, and Meteorology)

Geophysics is about understanding the Earth's systems interactions and complexities. We can explore everything from liquid metal in the Earth's core to moving continents on its surface and changes in the atmosphere. 

We have three degree streams that specialise in geophysics:

List of all Earth Sciences and Environment degrees

World leading reputation

We rank in the world's top 40 and the UK's top 10 universities for natural sciences, environmental sciences, geology, geophysics, earth and marine sciences

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
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Why study with us?

Extensive networks

Ensure your degree has real-world relevance, sought-after by employers. You will also have many networking, project, and work opportunities with us.

In-demand skills

Learn valuable in-demand practical skills, with plenty of access to our cutting-edge facilities, specialist laboratories, supercomputers, and high-tech field equipment.

Field trips

Field trips are at the heart of our degrees. Your field experiences will be challenging, rewarding and loads of fun. Oh – and they're free.

Play a role in the vital climate crisis

The evidence is 'undeniable' – human activity is responsible for warming the atmosphere, oceans and land in ways unprecedented in hundreds and even hundreds of thousands of years.

By studying with us, you will join one of the largest and most successful groups of researchers delivering crucial work on:

  • the science of climate change
  • its impacts and risks
  • options for adaption and mitigation
  • the transition to a low-carbon economy

Field trip videos

We know that getting out in the world is essential for understanding how it works.

Our Earth sciences and environment degrees will take you beyond the classroom so that you can apply your learning to real-life situations.

Our field courses and day excursions will challenge you at times, but are good fun. You'll have many opportunities to get your hands dirty!

Watch students on field trips, have some short lessons on Scottish geology, plus hear from our students and staff.

What's it really like to study here?

No one knows what it is really like to be a student at the University of Edinburgh better than the students themselves.

Our students share their experiences on our blog - from studying to living in Edinburgh and everything in between.

You can read blog posts about:

  • Local and international field trips
  • Getting involved in societies at university 
  • Student life in Edinburgh 
  • Study advice and tips

Edinburgh is your ideal base

Edinburgh is ranked 2nd in the UK and 13th in the world in the QS Best Student Cities 2025.

Edinburgh is not only a fantastic city to live in - it is the perfect location to study Earth Sciences.

It is no surprise we are regularly voted one of the most desirable places to live in the world!

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