Keele University

What you'll study

The programme integrates core topics from geology and physical geography to build a rounded understanding of the solid Earth and the processes that shape Earth’s surface. Early modules typically introduce Earth materials, mineralogy and rock formation, fundamentals of geomorphology, climate systems and introductory field methods. Progressing through the degree you study subjects such as sedimentology and stratigraphy, structural geology, hydrogeology, glacial and periglacial processes, river systems, coastal dynamics, and environmental change.

Practical work is a key feature: laboratory classes on petrography and geochemistry, map skills, quantitative data analysis, remote sensing and GIS, plus regular fieldwork in Britain and abroad to apply observational, sampling and mapping techniques. Optional modules allow you to specialise or broaden your skills—for example environmental monitoring, hazard assessment, sustainable land use, palaeoenvironments, or advanced spatial analysis. Many students also choose a substantial independent research project in their final year, producing a dissertation based on field and/or laboratory data.

The programme offers flexible study routes, including options for a year in industry or study abroad where available, and dedicated training in transferable skills such as scientific communication, report writing and teamwork.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school qualification with a combination of subjects that demonstrates aptitude for science and numeracy. Typical offers include relevant A-levels (for example geography, geology, physics, chemistry or mathematics) or equivalent qualifications. Many successful applicants also have a science or geography-based BTEC or an international qualification such as the International Baccalaureate.

Successful applicants should be comfortable with fieldwork and laboratory work and have good numeracy and written communication skills. Keele welcomes mature students and those with non-traditional backgrounds; in such cases, evidence of prior study, relevant experience or motivation is considered. Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate English language competence to the level specified by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates from Geology and Physical Geography move into a wide range of careers across environmental, civil and resource sectors. Common destinations include environmental consultancy, hydrogeology and groundwater management, geotechnical and engineering geology, mineral and energy industry roles, flood risk and coastal management, conservation and land-use planning, and GIS/spatial analysis positions.

Other graduates progress into academic or policy roles, undertake specialist postgraduate training (for example in hydrogeology, geomorphology, climate science or remote sensing), or pursue careers in education, environmental law and sustainability roles within local and national government. The programme’s practical and analytical focus also equips graduates for data-driven roles in industry and the public sector.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based university environment with strong emphasis on small-group teaching and research-led learning. The Department provides extensive laboratory facilities, dedicated mapping and GIS teaching suites, and practical training in field techniques. Staff research strengths cover a range of Earth-surface and subsurface topics, so teaching is informed by contemporary research.

The university’s location gives ready access to a variety of nearby field sites—from the Peak District and Welsh Borders to coastal environments—allowing diverse field training across different landscapes and geological settings. Keele also supports employability through placement and careers services, strong industry links, and opportunities to gain work experience during the degree.

Overall, the programme is designed for students who want a balance of hands-on geological and physical geography training, transferable analytical skills, and clear pathways into professional and research careers concerned with Earth and environmental systems.