Programme Type: Foundation
Course Overview
Geologists use their knowledge of the earth’s evolution and the physical, chemical and biological process that shape our planet, to pioneer sustainable futures. If you are interested in geology and earth sciences but don’t have the qualifications to apply for a degree, this could be the pathway for you.
Key features
- Progress onto BSc (Hons) Environmental Geoscience, Geology, Geology and Ocean Science, Physical Geography and Geology, Geography on successful completion of foundation year.
- Our new modules address critical sustainability challenges: reducing risk from natural hazards, harnessing cleaner energy sources and how to combat climate and environmental change.
- Our approachable staff share their cutting-edge research and expertise through varied teaching practices in lectures, tutorials, practical classes and field courses.
- Learn to apply the latest techniques in the field and laboratory. Our substantial fieldwork programme provides opportunities in a variety of UK and overseas locations including Death Valley USA, Spain, Sicily and Cyprus.
- Progress your skills in our open access laboratory, LABplus.
- Develop your confidence with a personal tutor, providing you with regular guidance throughout your first year.
- Our PALS mentoring scheme provides you with support from students in the year ahead.
- Plymouth's coastal location, close to Dartmoor and two UNESCO World Heritage sites provides the perfect setting for studying geology, with opportunities for fieldwork right on our doorstep.
- Receive essential field safety equipment free as part of your welcome package.
- Work towards becoming a Chartered Geologist, our accreditation by the Geological Society, the world’s oldest and most prestigious national learned society for geology, helps you to gain the required experience.
- Take the opportunity to spend your second year studying abroad in Canada, Australia, USA or elsewhere through our direct exchange, Erasmus or ISEP programmes. Plymouth is currently the only UK institution to offer exchanges through ISEP, giving our students the greatest range of Earth science exchange opportunities available.
- You also have the option to later transfer from the suite of geology degrees to our masters-level MGeol degree.
- The foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree. Completion of the foundation year will not lead to a separate award or qualification its own right but will provide access to Year 1 of your degree.
Entry Requirement
Academic Requirements:
UCAS tariff
32 - 48
A level: from a minimum of 2 A levels, including at least one pass in a science subject (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geology, use of mathematics, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology). Excluding general studies.
BTEC: 18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma PPP in a science-related subject (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geology, use of mathematics, environmental science/studies, applied science, geography, geology). 12 Unit BTEC National Certificate/QCF Diploma MP from a in a science-related subject as above.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
Access: pass Access course (preferably from a science/combined studies/natural sciences/nursing subject) (including GCSE English and mathematics grade C/4 or above or equivalent).
International Baccalaureate: 24 overall to include 1 subject from science – English and mathematics must be included.
GCSE: English and mathematics at grade C/4 or above.
Applications from students with non-standard qualifications, including those without science qualifications at level 3, are welcomed and are assessed on an individual basis. This programme is also suitable for those returning to study who can offer work or other related experience in place of formal qualifications and who have the equivalent of basic mathematical, English and science skills (i.e. the equivalent of a grade C/4 at GCSE level).
English Language Requirements:
The following Secure English Language tests (SELTs) are Home Office (UKVI) approved and accepted by the University of Plymouth and the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC). The scores required have been increased from the UKVI minimum specified scores to meet University requirements.
- IELTS (Academic)
- Trinity College London ISE (only a SELT if taken in the UK)
- LanguageCert International ESOL
- Pearson PTE Academic
A SELT must be taken at an approved UKVI center.
The other tests and qualifications listed here have been deemed acceptable by the University of Plymouth and UPIC to meet our entry requirements and UKVI requirements for study at RQF 6 and above.
Please note that these tests and qualifications are not SELTs.
When studying on a pre-sessional course or course below RQF 6, a SELT is a mandatory requirement set by UKVI.
If studying at RQF 6 level and above, the University is permitted to accept other qualifications that we deem meet UKVI and our requirements.
Fees
Home Fee: £9250
International Fee: £14200
Part time (Home) Fee: £770
This information was accurate on : 23/04/2021
Please contact us for more information about this courses