Earth Science (BSc (Hons)) at University College Cork

Earth Science investigates the functioning, development and use of Earth’s physical environment and involves the study of its atmosphere and oceans, its surface processes, and its crust and interior. It also involves the study of Earth's natural and physical resources, and incorporates interdisciplinary subjects across the traditional disciplines of geography, geology, geophysics, oceanography and biological sciences.

The course focuses on applying knowledge of these disciplines to understanding and solving problems. The subject’s growth has been in response to changing demands in industry and the practical needs of interdisciplinary scientific research, together with the needs arising from an increased community awareness of the Earth, its environment stresses and patterns of change.

This course provides a unique approach to studying the physical system of planet Earth – how it functions, how it can be wisely managed and how it might change under different environmental conditions.

Students undertake a range of field studies each year of study in different geological and geographical locations, allowing them to gain the practical skills required of Earth scientists in the workplace.

The research project encourages students to develop and test their own ideas and to gain independence in thinking and reaching conclusions based on data they have collected.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

No formal work placement is undertaken in the course, although you will be encouraged to seek such opportunities to develop your skills in a commercial environment as part of the independent research project.

Several successful partnerships have been developed in this way, resulting in students having access to data and knowledge not available in-house, and enabling them to undertake novel and innovative research that directly supports the work of a commercial or government enterprise.

Skills and Careers Information

Earth scientists are involved in a variety of environmentally based careers that draw upon their wide laboratory and computing skills and experience. Typical careers for Earth Science graduates include:

• mineral and water exploration
• geological
• geophysical and ground surveying
• geotechnical services
• natural resource conservation
• mapping
• management and planning
• oceanography and marine science

Many transferable skills are also fostered through different learning approaches, including critical thinking, problem solving, report writing, oral presentations, statistical analysis, independent research and time management.