Earth,,Ocean, And, Ecological, Sciences

FIND OUT MORE
www.liverpool.ac.uk/study
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Life in Liverpool: www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/city
Student support: www.liverpool.ac.uk/studentsupport
UG enquiries and applications: T: +44 (0)151 794 5927
Geology enquiries: geology@liverpool.ac.uk
Geophysics enquiries: geophysics@liverpool.ac.uk
Ocean Sciences enquiries: oceansciences@liverpool.ac.uk
Ecology enquiries: ecology@liverpool.ac.uk
Marine Biology enquiries: marinebiology@liverpool.ac.uk
EARTH, OCEAN AND ECOLOGICAL SCIENCES

The University of Liverpool
Jane Herdman Building
Brownlow Hill
Liverpool L69 3GP
T: +44 (0)151 794 5199
www.liverpool.ac.uk/earth-ocean-and-ecological-sciences
MEMBER OF THE RUSSELL GROUP
EB/RH JUN 2013
Earth,Ocean and
Ecolog cal Sc ences
The past, present and future of the solid Earth,
the oceans and life are all inexorably linked. In this
Department, we research and teach about the solid
Earth (Earth Sciences), about the seas and oceans
(Ocean Sciences), and about how groups of organisms
evolve and interact (Ecology and Marine Biology).
Introduction 01
Earth Sciences 02
Ocean Sciences 26
Ecology and Marine Biology 44
Applications and admissions 61
The Department forms one half of the School of

Environmental Sciences. Being an integral part
of this diverse and multidisciplinary School, will
allow you access to a wide array of exciting
modules, and encourage you to think of planet
Earth in a more holistic way.
EARTH SCIENCES
Earth Sciences at Liverpool comprises
the disciplines of Geology and Geophysics.
Earth Sciences are concerned with
understanding the evolution of the solid
and molten parts of our planet. To find out
more about our Geology and Geophysics
programmes, see pages 2-25.
OCEAN SCIENCES
The oceans have been studied at the University
of Liverpool since the formation of the Liverpool
Tidal Institute in 1919, with research and
teaching now encompassing the physics,
chemistry and biology of the oceans and our
climate. To find out more about our Ocean
Sciences programmes, see pages 26-43.
ECOLOGY AND MARINE BIOLOGY

Liverpool was the first UK University to offer a
degree in Marine Biology, and is an established
leader in Ecology. As Ecologists and Marine
Biologists we seek to understand patterns of
diversity in the natural world and the processes
and mechanisms that shape them. To find out
more about our Ecology and Marine Biology
programmes, see pages 44-60.
Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences www.liverpool.ac.uk/earth-ocean-and-ecological-sciences
01
Contents
Our work often crosses the boundaries

between these areas, for instance addressing
how the physics of ocean currents affects
nutrient supply for marine organisms, and
how climate change (recorded in the isotopic
composition of seawater) is recorded in the
rocks and fossils which formed in that seawater.
Earth Sciences
The study of the Earth spans a wide range of disciplines
making it challenging, exciting and rewarding. You will
learn about the history and evolution of Earth systems,
their present activity and the ways they will change
in the future. This is science for the 21st century.
WHY CHOOSE EARTH
SCIENCES AT LIVERPOOL?
Small classes; big ideas. A great staff:
student ratio means that you will never
be an anonymous student in an enormous
class. You will be taught subject specific
and transferrable skills in a genuinely friendly
atmosphere, where staff and students
get to know each other as individuals.
02/03
Research excellence in a friendly

atmosphere. We have an excellent reputation
for both teaching and research, and provide
a diverse range of degree programmes in a
stimulating and supportive atmosphere. You
will be taught by research-active staff, who are
at the forefront of their chosen fields. Researchled teaching ensures that you will learn about
cutting-edge science before it is incorporated
into textbooks. Project work, carried out within
the research groups, will allow you to use
research equipment and techniques. All
students have a personal tutor, who can offer
guidance and support throughout your time
at university.
Accredited programmes. Where appropriate,

our degree programmes have been accredited
by the Geological Society of London or
recognised by the Institute of Physics,
indicating that graduates have gained the
skills necessary for a professional career
in their chosen field.
Exciting career prospects. Our degrees will
prepare you for many areas of employment
from environmental protection and consultancy,
planning and conservation, through to the
petroleum, geotechnical and mineral extraction
industries or a career in scientific research or
academia. Many of our staff have experience
outside of academia, and are well placed to
offer guidance and advice on work placements
and careers in industry.

Extensive fieldwork opportunities.

Liverpool has an enviable reputation for
fieldwork teaching in the Earth Sciences. Field
classes are an important part of all our degree
programmes, and you will visit places where
you can witness Earth processes at first hand.
Class sizes are kept small to ensure that you
get the most from your time in the field, and
graduate as a practical and confident
problem solver.
World class teaching facilities. Our brand
new award-winning Central Teaching Hub
opened in 2012. As Europes most advanced
teaching laboratories they offer unparalleled
undergraduate access to research grade
equipment. Other research equipment facilities
include the Networked Earth Science
Supercomputing Cluster; rock deformation
laboratory; stable isotope laboratory; unique
experimental scanning electron microscope;
organic mass spectrometry laboratory; stateof-the-art trace metal analytical facilities and
the world-leading geomagnetism laboratory.
A vibrant undergraduate society. The

Herdman Society is very active in the life of
the department. They organise weekly talks
by guest speakers, and an annual symposium
on a topic of current geological interest that
draws distinguished speakers from across
Europe. They are also the social heart of the
department, arranging regular nights out,
fieldtrips and an annual ball.
Track record. Liverpool have been offering
undergraduate degrees in Geophysics
longer than any other UK university. Our first
geophysics programme started in 1967.
Our commitment to fieldwork extends back
many years. Renowned field geologist and
Herdman Professor of Geology at Liverpool,
Harold Read, commented in 1940 that,the
best geologist is the one who has seen the
most rocks. We continue that tradition of
extensive and practical field training to enable
you to become the best geologist possible.
Research in context
The University of Liverpool is a research-intensive
university, and many of our academic staff are leading
researchers in their fields. What this means for you
as a student is that your learning will be informed
by the very latest developments in Earth Sciences.
Geophysics is the study of the Earth, using remote methods such

as seismic waves or magnetic properties. Earth Sciences brings in
a lot of different sciences. I really liked the Open Day and it seemed
a genuinely friendly department. Easily the best thing about
my course is the fieldwork, Ive been to Scotland, Wales, Ireland,
the Alps. In January, I go to Tenerife when we get to use all the
geophysical equipment youd use in a job.
JAMIE RICHARDSON
GEOLOGY AND GEOPHYSICS MESCI (HONS)
One current area of research, undertaken by

Professor Dan Faulkner and Dr Betty Mariani,
focuses on faults in earthquake-prone areas.
It is well known that faults are associated
with earthquakes, but much less is known
about how earthquakes are actually triggered
and propagate. The researchers at Liverpool
anticipate that by carefully studying the
structure and properties of rocks in fault
zones, they will be able to shed some light
on these questions.
04/05
Earth
Sciences
Professor Faulkner and Dr Mariani are currently

investigating the Alpine Fault Zone in New
Zealand, where the Australian and Pacific
tectonic plates collide. Major (magnitude 8)
earthquakes have occurred along this fault
every 300 years on average, with the last
event occurring in 1717.
The project involves drilling down to a depth

of 1.5 km, and laying sensors that can monitor
the fault zone in the build-up to the next major
event. This will provide the researchers with
data that will help them to understand how
earthquakes actually nucleate.
In addition to these field observations,
samples of the fault rocks will be extracted
from the boreholes to be inspected and tested
in the laboratory. The microscopic structure
of the rocks will be studied using a powerful
Scanning Electron Microscope. Samples will
also be subjected to lab-induced earthquake
conditions. Together, these observations will tell
the researchers how the rocks in this area will
behave during a real earthquake, with important
implications for seismic hazard assessment.

See what Jamie had to say about studying

Geology and Geophysics at Liverpool
www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/video
There has never been a better time to study the Earth

Sciences. Many of the most fundamental questions
of our times will be answered by geoscientists, as we
seek to sustainably provide resources for the worlds
population, predict and mitigate against natural
hazards, and understand the planet on which we live.
QUALIFYING YOU FOR LIFE
As well as subject-specific skills, you will
graduate with a wide range of transferrable
skills. You will have experience of working
independently and as a member of a team.
You will have presented work in the form of
reports, posters and oral presentations, and
will have used a wide range of software and
specialist equipment. You will have gained
time-management and organisational skills
from arranging your independent project, and
will be able to integrate large quantities of data
from a wide range of sources and at a variety
of scales to solve real-world problems.
CAREER PROSPECTS
06/07
Earth
Sciences
The majority of our recent graduates have

gained employment within a degree related
field or continued within further education
after graduation. We have close links with

geoscience and environmental industries
ensuring that our degrees properly equip
you for future employment.
WORK EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES

Many of our students successfully complete
internships in industry, during university
vacations. A large proportion of the academic
staff in the department have worked outside
of academia and can provide support and
guidance in finding a suitable position.
RECENT EMPLOYERS
I am currently a Senior Environmental Consultant

at an engineering, environmental and planning
consultancy, offering a broad range of consultancy
services. I work within a team of design engineers,
environmental scientists, hydrologists, geologists,
planners and more. An average day is in the office,
undertaking desk-top studies, report writing and
dealing with clients and regulators, but I can often be
involved in site work which keeps things interesting.
I specialise in water management, investigating the
causes of flooding, and possible solutions to flooding
problems for private developers or local authorities.
In my job, Ioften have to undertake surveys, mapping
and investigate the physical characteristics of a site. All the
fieldwork I did during my degree was an enormous help
in giving me the basic skills I needed in a graduate role.
KATIE BURTON
GEOLOGY AND PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY BSC (HONS)
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT
CAULMERT LTD
Companies employing our graduates in

recent years include:
Geological Surveys in the UK and abroad
Hydrocarbon and support industries:
ExxonMobil, BP, Shell, Geotrace,
Geokinetics, Neftex
Engineering and environmental
consultancies: The Environment Agency,
Environmental Resources Management,
URS Corporation, Caulmert Ltd, VerdErg
Renewables
Mining and related industries: Gold Fields, Rio
Tinto, Cliffs Natural Resources, Geological
Solutions, Hanson Aggregate Marine Ltd.

Graduate
Profile
An investment
in your future
Prog amme details

Degrees at a Glance
UCAS Code
Length (Years)
Page
Geology BSc (Hons)
F600
10
Geology MESci (Hons)
F601
12
Geology (North America) MESci (Hons)
F603
14
Geology and Physical Geography BSc (Hons)
F6F8
15
Geology and Physical Geography MESci (Hons)
FF68
17
Geophysics (Geology) BSc (Hons)
F640
18
Geology and Geophysics MESci (Hons)
F641
20
Geophysics (North America) MESci (Hons)
F660
23
Geophysics (Physics) BSc (Hons)
F656
22
Programme with a Foundation Year

Earth Sciences entry route leading to BSc (Hons)
F608
(4 year route including a Foundation Year at Carmel College)
24
56
Programme offered by the School of Environmental Sciences

Environmental Science BSc (Hons)
F750
This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree.

See www.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honours for further details.
Entrance Requirements
See www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses for current entrance requirements.
Foundation programmes have flexible entry requirements. For further information, download
the Foundation course brochure from the website below or contact Carmen Nuez at
Carmel College: E: degree@carmel.ac.uk T: +44 (0)1744 452 224 www.carmel.ac.uk
HOW YOU LEARN
WHICH DEGREE
Teaching takes place through lectures,

practicals, workshops, seminars, tutorials
and fieldwork, with an emphasis on learning
through doing. The new Central Teaching
Hub opened in 2012 provides a state-of-theart facility for undergraduate practical work.
Students value the learning opportunities
provided by field classes, including the rapid
feedback on performance.
In Earth Sciences, we offer a range of three-year

BSc (Hons) degree programmes and four-year
undergraduate Masters programmes (MESci).
All our degrees will provide you with skills that
are both subject specific and transferable. Our
degrees are flexible, so it is possible to change
from a BSc (Hons) programme to a MESci
(Hons) degree during your studies or vice versa.
Students typically receive approximately

15-20 hours of formal teaching each week,
and participate in between 50 and 150 hours
of residential field courses each year. The
degree programmes are modular with a typical
module involving two one-hour lectures each
week, and a three-hour laboratory or computerbased practical as well. Tutorials typically
involve groups of six to eight students meeting
with a member of staff at least every two weeks
in Years One and Two. In Year Three, students
do an Honours project, which is a piece of
independent research (field, laboratory or data
analysis) on a topic of their choice, supervised
by a member of staff. Students in Year Three
meet with their project supervisor on a weekly
or more frequent basis.
As students progress through their degree,
they are increasingly challenged to engage
with current debates, to think critically and
to study independently.
08/09
Earth
Sciences
HOW YOU ARE ASSESSED

Students are assessed via a mixture of
continuous assessment and formal exams.
Some modules, including many of the
residential field-based modules are assessed
entirely on the basis of work completed in
the field. Most modules contain between
30 and 50% continuous assessment.
Geology: Geology is the science of the

Earth, including everything from the deep
Earth interior through to the sediments on
Earths surface. It is a truly interdisciplinary
subject, encompassing aspects of many of
the pure sciences. In Liverpool, we emphasise
the practical and applied aspects of Geology.
All of our degrees include extensive and well
integrated opportunities for fieldwork, with
field courses in all years of study. We offer
three- and four-year programmes in Geology,
as well as a four-year programme in Geology
with a year in North America. The four-year
degrees have an advanced research project
as a major component of the final year. The
Liverpool Geologist is practical, confident
and employable.
Geology and Physical Geography: Geology
and Physical Geography are intimately linked,
but are often taught entirely separately. Our
GPG degrees draw on the complementary
expertise of academic staff from both subjects
to provide a truly integrated programme.
Rather than offer unlimited choice across
geological and physical geography topics,
we have carefully designed a degree that
provides training in earth surface processes,
and soft-rock geology. With an emphasis on
environmental hazards, petroleum geology and
the reconstruction of past climates, graduates
from this programme are very employable.

Students study a core programme with field

courses and tutorials that are specific to the
GPG degree. We offer three-and four-year
programmes in Geology and Physical
Geography. The four-year programme enables
students to carry out a more advanced research
project in either Geology or Physical Geography.
Geophysics: Geophysics investigates the
fundamental structure and evolution of our
planet. It involves the application of physical
principles to the study of the Earth, and,
increasingly, the other planets. In contrast to
most other UK universities, we offer a range
of geophysics degrees two three-year BSc
(Hons) programmes; Geophysics (geology)
and Geophysics (physics), which share core
geophysics modules but allow for either
a more geological or physical emphasis in
supporting modules, and two four-year MESci
programmes, which involve more intensive
and rigorous training and research. Geology
and Geophysics includes full training in both
geophysics and geology and, Geophysics
with a year in North America includes the
third year spent at a partner university.
Geology BSc (Hons)

UCAS code: F600
Programme length: 3 years
Geology is the study of planet Earth ranging
from natural hazards to natural resources,
and from the history of life to the history of
the planet itself. This programme provides a
thorough, process based and highly practical
training in modern geology, with a strong
emphasis on fieldwork. No prior knowledge
of geology is assumed. The course will benefit
students wishing to take up professional
careers as geologists in industry, as the
degree is accredited under the Accreditation
of Geoscience First Degree scheme of the
Geological Society of London. This scheme
confirms the programme offers training of
a calibre suitable for a professional career
in geosciences and that it satisfies the
requirements of Fellowship and Chartered
Geologist status. Graduates are highly
successful in finding employment as
professional geologists and in degreerelated careers.
10/11
Earth
Sciences
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Your training will cover core topics including
Sedimentology, Stratigraphy, Fossils, Volcanoes,
Minerals, Metamorphism, Structural Geology,
Geological Maps, and Plate Tectonics, as well
as comprehensive training in Field Geology and
IT and Communication Skills. In addition, in Year
Three you will take modules in applied topics
such Hydrogeology, Engineering Geology and
Hydrocarbon Reserves. Options in Ocean
Science, Geophysics and Geodynamics are
available. Current field areas include Spain,
Dorset, Ireland and Wales. In Year Three, you
will undertake an independent field project
and dissertation, either in the UK or abroad.
Year One
Year Two
Years One and Two aim to provide a

comprehensive introduction to core disciplines
in geoscience assuming no prior knowledge of
the subject. A strong feature of Years One and
Two is the development of transferable skills
(eg IT, report writing, oral communication),
integrated within a tutorial system.
Students take the following compulsory

modules:

modules:
Study Skills and GIS
Introduction to Field Geology
Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics
Minerals, Magmas and Volcanoes
Introduction to Sedimentary Rocks
and Fossils
Introduction to Structural Geology
and Geological Maps
Two options from:
Climate, Atmosphere and Oceans
Maths and Physics for Environmental
Scientists
Living with Environmental Change
Environmental Chemistry
Ocean Chemistry and Life
Theory and Laboratory Experiments
in Earth Surface Processes
Fieldwork:
Research Skills
Metamorphism and Crustal Evolution
Exploration Geophysics
Sedimentary Processes and Depositional
Environments
Magmatism and Volcanic Hazards
Structural Geology and Interpretation
of Geological Maps
Deep Earth Mineralisation Systems
Field Mapping Techniques
Dynamic Stratigraphy
Palaeobiology and Evolution
Fieldwork:
14 days Geological Mapping Training
in Spain (Easter)
Year Three
This year aims to train students in the analysis
of large-scale, multidisciplinary geological
problems and provide an awareness of the
key applications and employment areas in
geoscience. A major feature of this year of
study is the dissertation in which students
have the opportunity to conduct a major
piece of original research based on primary
scientific information and present it in a
substantial report.
Two days in North Wales (autumn)

Seven days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)
For current entrance requirements and full

module details, see www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/
undergraduate/courses


modules:
Basins: Formation, Filling and
Hydrocarbon Resources
Engineering Geology
Advanced Field Techniques
Field Project and Dissertation
Applied Basis Analysis
Hydrogeology
One option from:
Environmental Geophysics
The Ocean Carbon Cycle
Mineral Deposits in Space and Time
Evolution, Oceans and Climate
Geology MESci (Hons)

UCAS code: F601
The first two years of this four-year

degree are shared with the BSc Geology
programme; the final two years provide more
advanced training in all aspects of geology.
The programme has a high level of field-based
training and is specifically designed to give
you skills in data analysis, synthesis, problem
solving, research and reporting your results.
Graduates from this degree are very successful
in finding degree related employment
or continuing onto PhD programmes.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Project:
35 days independent project fieldwork
(in the summer between Years Two and
Three). Dissertation write-up in Semester
One, Year Three.
12/13
Earth
Sciences
This subject can be taken as part

of a Combined Honours degree. See
www.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honours
for further details.
Years One and Two follow the same

programme as F600. See page 11.
Year Three
Fieldwork:
12 days Advanced Field Techniques
in Donegal, Ireland (summer between
Years Two and Three)
Six days Applied Basin Analysis Field
Course in Dorset (Easter)
Years One and Two
You will undertake a geological mapping

project and complete a dissertation in Year
Three. Modules specific to the four-year
programme include Volcanic Processes,
Geohazards, and Rock Deformation. Year
Four field classes visit Northern Spain and
Tenerife. In Year Four, you will work within one
of our research groups and complete a major
geological research project. This will involve
development of research and communication
skills through a project proposal, literature
review, journal-style manuscript and
conference-style talk.
There is scope for an industrial placement
with organisations such as Shell, BP, ExxonMobil, the Environment Agency and the British
Geological Survey. Many of our students
successfully complete internships in industry
between Years Three and Four.
This programme is recognised under the
Accreditation of Geoscience First Degree
scheme of the Geological Society of London
and is suitable for a professional career
in geosciences.
Years Three and Four lead students to researchlevel understanding of a range of Earth Science
problems and issues, via formal teaching
and independent work. A major feature of the
third year is the dissertation in which students
have the opportunity to conduct a major piece
of independent fieldwork and present it in
a substantial report.
modules:
Basins: Formation, Filling and Hydrocarbon
Resources
Engineering Geology
Applied Basin Analysis (or Geodynamic
Field Class)
One option from:
Hydrogeology
Fieldwork:
12 days Advanced Field Techniques
in Donegal, Ireland (summer between
Years Two and Three)
Six days Applied Basin Analysis Field
Course in Dorset (Easter)
Project:
35 days independent project fieldwork
One, Year Three.
Year Four
modules:
Volcanic Processes
Advanced Geological Project
Geodynamics Field Class
Research Methods
Geodynamic Field Class (or Applied
Basin Analysis)
One option from:
Geohazards and Risk Mitigation
Rock Deformation
Hydrogeology
Fieldwork:
10 days in Tenerife (winter)
Seven days in Northern Spain (Easter)
Advanced Research Project:
Advanced Geological Project and
Dissertation focused on one of the areas
of current research in the Department
eg Sedimentology, Rock Microstructures,
Rock Deformation, Geochemistry,
Volcanology, Palaeontology.


Geology (North America)

MESci (Hons)
UCAS code: F603
The first two years of this four-year degree
are shared with the BSc programme whilst
the final two years provide more advanced
training, with the third year spent at a sister
department in North America, where a range
of novel or mainstream modules may be taken.
The programme has a large proportion of
field based training and, while ensuring that
you gain skills in analysis, synthesis, problem
solving, research and reporting, it affords an
opportunity to experience a different culture
and learning environment, along with access
to diverse subject areas.
You will spend one year (Year Three) studying
at one of the best Earth Science Departments
in North America. Current links include the
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and
McGill University in Toronto. The number of
places available on this degree programme is
limited. Students who apply, but dont achieve
the required grades, will be offered a place on
either F601 or F600, provided they obtain the
required grades for those programmes.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Modules specific to the four-year programme
include Volcanic Processes, Geohazards,
and Rock Deformation. Year Four field classes
visit Northern Spain and Tenerife. In Year Four,
you will work within one of our research groups
and complete a major field-based geological
research project. This will involve development
of research and communication skills through
a project proposal, literature review, journalstyle manuscript and conference-style talk.
scheme of the Geological Society of London
and is suitable for a professional career
in geosciences.
Years One and Two

programme as F600. See pages 10-11.
PROGRAMME CONTENT

Seven days in Northern Spain or six
days in Dorset (Easter)
Advanced Research Project:
Advanced Geological Project and
Dissertation focused on one of the areas
of current research in the Department
eg Sedimentology, Rock Microstructures,
Rock Deformation, Geochemistry,
Volcanology, Palaeontology.
Geology and Physical

Geography BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: F6F8
Your training will include the comprehensive

study of surface and near surface processes,
relevant to many industrial, engineering and
environmental employment sectors. Years One
and Two cover a wide range of geological and
physical geography topics, allowing for greater
choice in the final year. A research based
dissertation is undertaken in Year Three on
a geological and/or geomorphological topic.
A third-year two-week field class to south
eastern Spain, designed exclusively for
Geology and Physical Geography students,
integrates all aspects of the degree.
Graduates from this degree programme
either gain employment directly or proceed
to vocational MSc (such as Recent
Environmental Change, Engineering
Geology) or PhD degree programmes.
Year One
Year Three
Spent at a sister department in
North America
Year Four
modules:
Volcanic Processes
Advanced Geological Project
(or Applied Basin Analysis)
Research Methods
One option from:
14/15
Earth
Sciences
Fieldwork:

Rock Deformation
Hydrogeology
The Earth surface system is dynamic and

diverse, with changes driven by the interplay
of physical, chemical, geological and biological
processes in a wide range of environments.
Drawing on the complementary expertise of
staff in Geology and Physical Geography, this
integrated degree programme provides a clear
view of the controlling processes that link
landscape evolution with environmental change
and natural events that impact human activity.
In contrast to similarly titled programmes
elsewhere, all fieldwork in Years Two and
Three is exclusively designed for this degree,
thus specifically addressing the academic
needs of an integrated discipline.

modules:
and Fossils
Experiments in Physical Geography 1
Introduction to Structural Geology and
Geological Maps
Theory and Laboratory Experiments
in Earth Surface Processes

scheme of the Geological Society of London,
satisfying the requirements of Fellowship and
Chartered Geologist status.

One option from:

Earth Structure and Plate Tectronics
Fieldwork:
Four days in NW England/Wales
Year Two
modules:
Research Skills
Environments
Geomorphology
Four to six options from:
of Geological Maps
Quaternary Environmental Change
Soils and Slopes
Catchment Hydrology
Climatology
Fieldwork:
16/17
Earth
Sciences
14 days in Scotland (summer)

Six days in NW England/Wales
Year Three
modules:
Resources
Geodynamics of the Mediterranean
Fluvial Environments
Three/four options from:
Human-Environmental Interactions
Geographies of Energy and Natural
Resources
Engineering Geology
Hydrogeology
Coastal Environments: Spatial and
Temporal Change
Climate Change: a Critical Review
Natural Hazards and Societies
Fieldwork:
14 days in the Betics, Spain (Easter)
Three to five days in NW England
Geology and Physical

Geography MESci (Hons)
UCAS code: FF68
This four-year MESci Geology and
Physical Geography degree is a strongly
integrated programme benefiting from the
complementary research expertise of staff
in Geology and Physical Geography. The
degree provides thorough training in the multidisciplinary approach required to document
and understand spatial and temporal variations
in physical processes operating on the Earth.
The first two years are shared with the BSc
programme. The final two years provide a wider
choice of taught modules and a comprehensive
fieldwork programme. In addition, students
have the opportunity to design and undertake
a major individual research project that will
provide them with skills in analysis, synthesis,
problem solving, and reporting.
This degree is accredited by the Geological
Society of London, satisfying the requirements
of Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Project:
35 days Field Project and Dissertation
One, Year Three.
Your training will focus on practical and

quantitative aspects of geological and
geographical science through study of the
interaction of surface and near surface
processes on the Earth.
Research-based dissertations on topics of
your choice are undertaken in Years Three
and Four on projects that are geological and/
or geomorphological. Year Four includes the
opportunity for additional field courses to
Dorset (applied basin analysis) and Tenerife
(volcanic processes).
The unique range of skills that MESci Geology

and Physical Geography students develop
make them attractive to employers in the
geotechnical and resource exploration
industries, as well as the environmental
monitoring, surveying and planning sectors.
Years One and Two

programme as F6F8. See pages 15-16.
Year Three
modules:
Resources
Geodynamics of the Mediterranean
Three/four options from:
Human-Environmental Interactions
Geographies of Energy and Natural
Resources
Engineering Geology
Hydrogeology
Coastal Environments: Temporal
and Spatial Change
Climate Change: a Critical Review
Natural Hazards and Societies
Fieldwork:
14 days in the Betics, Spain (Easter)
Three to five days in NW England


Project:
35 days Field Project and Dissertation
One, Year Three.
Geophysics (Geology) BSc (Hons)

UCAS code: F640
Geophysics enquiries:
geophysics@liverpool.ac.uk
Year Four
modules:
Advanced Geology Physical Geography
Project
Research Methods
Applied Basin Analysis
Two options from:
Volcanic Processes
Rock Deformation
Climate Processes and Variability
Human Impacts on the Environment
Hydrogeology
Laboratory Methods and Techniques
in Environmental Reconstruction
Fieldwork:
Six days Applied Basin Analysis Field Course
in Dorset (Easter)
Optional 10 days in Tenerife (winter)
Project:
18/19
Earth
Sciences
Advanced geological or physical geography

project focused on an area of current
research within the School.
This three-year degree provides high-level

training in geophysics with supporting geology,
and including fundamental university training
in physics and mathematics. The degree
is accredited under the Accreditation of
Geoscience First Degree scheme of the
Geological Society of London. This scheme
confirms the programme offers training of
a calibre suitable for a professional career
in geosciences and that it satisfies the
Geologist status.
Graduates from this degree are very successful
in finding degree-related employment or
continuing with further education. This
programme is particularly strong for careers in
interpretation and processing of geophysical
data, and research areas related to geological
applications.
Transfer to a Geology degree is possible
up to the end of the first year.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
The programme covers core topics in
geology, geophysics and physics, plus a
choice of advanced modules in geophysics.
Major features include training in practical
geophysics, exploration geophysics
(particularly seismology), planetary-scale
geophysics and geophysical inverse theory.
Fieldwork currently involves field areas in Wales,
Spain and Tenerife. You will work within one of
our research groups to undertake a significant
geophysical research project in your final year.
This provides excellent training in research
methodology for an academic or industrial
research career.
Year One
Year Three

modules:

modules:

and Fossils
and Geological Maps
Newtonian Dynamics
Maths for Physics 1
Maths for Physics 2
Geophysical Project
Earthquake Seismology
Exploration Geophysics and Signal
Processing
Geophysical Exploration Techniques
Geodynamics
Fieldwork:
Two days in Anglesey (spring)
Two options from:

Environments
Planetary Geophysics
Rock Deformation
Geophysical Data Modelling
Fieldwork:
Year Two
Students take the following
compulsory modules:
Geophysical Mathematics and Potential
Theory
Seismology and Computing
Electromagnetism

Project:
Field, laboratory or computer-based
Geophysics Project.
One/two options from:

Fieldwork:
14 days Geological Mapping
Training in Spain (Easter)

Geology and Geophysics

MESci (Hons)
UCAS code: F641
This four-year degree delivers advanced
and rigorous training in both geophysics and
geology, including a high proportion of field
based work, and including fundamental
university training in physics and mathematics.
The degree is accredited under the
scheme of the Geological Society of London.
This scheme confirms the programme offers
training of a calibre suitable for a professional
career in geosciences and that it satisfies the
Geologist status. Transfer to a geology degree
is possible up to the end of the first year.
20/21
Earth
Sciences
Graduates are highly successful in finding

degree-related careers or continuing onto
PhD programmes. The degree programme
provides an excellent background for a
wide-ranging career in geosciences, allowing
(for example) flexible career paths between
geology and geophysics in a large company.
Project:
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Year Two
You will cover core topics in geophysics,

geology, physics and mathematics. Major
features include training in practical geology
and geophysics, exploration geophysics
Fieldwork currently involves field areas
in Ireland, Wales, Tenerife, and Spain.

modules:
In Year Three, you will undertake an

independent field mapping project and
dissertation, either in the UK or abroad. In
the final year you will work within one of our
geophysical research groups to undertake
a substantial research project, generally
producing research of publishable quality
thus providing an ideal entry into further
research degrees if desired.

Geophysical Mathematics and
Potential Theory
of Geological Maps
Electromagnetism
One option from:
Fieldwork:
Year One
A strong feature of Years One and Two is the
acquisition of fundamentals in Maths, Physics,
Geology and Geophysics supported by an
integrated approach to transferable skills
conveyed through the tutorial system.
modules:
and Fossils
and Geological Maps
Newtonian Dynamics
Maths for Physics 1
Maths for Physics 2
14 days Geological Mapping Training

in Spain (Easter)
Year Three
modules:
Metamorphosim and Crustal Evolution
Processing
Field Project Dissertation
Geodynamics
Geological Field Project and Dissertation

(35 days fieldwork in the summer between
Years Two and Three). Dissertation write-up
in Semester One, Year Three.
Year Four
modules:
Geophysical Project (Masters level)
(Masters level)
One option from:
Rock Deformation
Fieldwork:
Optional seven day Geodynamics field
class in Spain (Easter)
Project:
Advanced Geophysics project.
Fieldwork:
12 days Advanced Field Techniques in
Donegal in the summer between Years
Two and Three
Fieldwork:


Geophysics (Physics) BSc (Hons)

UCAS code: F656
You will work within one of our research groups

to undertake a significant geophysical research
project in your final year. This provides excellent
training in research methodology for an
academic or industrial research career.
Year One
This three-year degree programme provides
training in the principles and practice of
geophysics with an emphasis on pure and
practical physics. High level training is given in
geophysics with supporting physics, providing
classical physics training to second year
university level, and including university training
in geology and mathematics. This degree
is recognised by the Institute of Physics.

modules:
Introduction to Sedimentary
Rocks and Fossils
Newtonian Dynamics
Wave Phenomena
Foundations of Modern Physics
Maths for Physicists 1
Maths for Physicists 2
Graduates from this degree are very

successful in finding degree-related
employment or continuing with further
education. The programme is particularly
strong for careers in geophysical data
analysis, and research areas related to
global geophysics and planetary science.
Fieldwork:
Transfer to a Physics degree is possible

up to the end of the first year.

modules:
PROGRAMME CONTENT
22/23
Earth
Sciences
The programme will cover core topics in

physics, geophysics, geology and mathematics,
plus a choice of advanced modules in
geophysics. Major features include training in
practical geophysics, exploration geophysics
Year Three
modules:
Geophysical Project
Processing
Geodynamics
Two options from:
Ocean Dynamics
Nuclear Physics
Fieldwork:
Year Two
Geophysical Mathematics and

Potential Theory
Material Universe
Electromagnetism
Condensed Matter Physics
Quantum and Atomic Physics
Geophysics (North America)

MESci (Hons)
UCAS code: F660
The first two years of this four-year degree
are shared with the F640 programme whilst
the final two years provide more advanced
training. Your third year will be spent at a sister
department in North America or Australia,
where you will have the opportunity to
experience a different culture and learning
environment, along with access to diverse
subject areas. Current links include the
University of Connecticut, the University
of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, McGill
University, Montreal, Canada; Toronto
University in Canada and Monash University
in Melbourne, Australia.
The number of places available on this degree

programme is limited. Students who apply,
but dont achieve the required grades, will
be offered a place on either F641 or F640,
provided they obtain the required grades
for those programmes.
The degree is accredited under the
scheme of the Geological Society of London.
This scheme confirms the programme offers
training of a calibre suitable for a professional
career in geosciences and that it satisfies the
Geologist status.
Graduates are highly successful in finding
degree-related careers or continuing onto
PhD programmes. The degree programme
is particularly strong for careers in interpretation
and processing of geophysical data, and
research areas related to geological applications.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
The programme gives high level training in
geophysics with supporting geology, and
including fundamental university training in
physics and mathematics. Major features
include training in practical geophysics,
exploration geophysics (particularly
seismology), planetary-scale geophysics
and geophysical inverse theory.
In the final year you will work within one of
our geophysical research groups to undertake
a substantial research project, generally
producing research of publishable quality thus
providing an ideal entry into further research
degrees if desired.


Years One and Two

Years One and Two follow the same progamme
as F640. See page 18-19.
Programme with
a Foundation Year
Year Three
At a university in the United States, Canada
or Australia. Current partners include: the
University of Connecticut, the University of
Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, McGill University
in Montreal, Canada and Monash University
in Melbourne, Australia.
Earth Sciences entry route

leading to BSc (Hons) (4 year
route including a Foundation
Year at Carmel College)
UCAS code: F608
Year Four
modules:
Geophysical Project (Masters level)
(Masters level)
Three options from:
Processing
Geodynamics
Rock Deformation
Project:
Advanced Geophysics Project
Fieldwork:
24/25
Earth
Sciences
14 days in Tenerife, Canary Islands (winter)
This programme provides a route into a number

of BSc (Hons) degrees in Earth or Ocean
Sciences; it is especially suitable for students
without a strong background in science. You
will follow a foundation year at Carmel College
(St Helens, nine miles from the University of
Liverpool), where the class sizes are small and
the standards of academic achievement high.
You will then follow one from:
Geology (F600)
Geology and Physical Geography (F6F8)
Geophysics (Geology) (F640)
Geophysics (Physics) (F656)
Ocean Sciences (F700)
Oceans, Climate and Physical
Geography (FF78)
Mathematics with Ocean and
Climate Sciences (G1F7)
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Foundation Year (Year Zero)
Students follow three foundation modules
chosen from Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics,
Biology or Geography. Module choice depends
on the programme students wish to follow after
the Foundation Year.
Years One, Two and Three

Students follow their chosen programme
on the main University campus.


Ocean Sciences
The study of the Ocean is exciting, challenging and
rewarding. It requires knowledge and appreciation
of a range of scientific disciplines and provides the
skills to tackle real world environmental problems.
This is science for the 21st century.
The University of Liverpool was the first
university in the UK to open a Department
of Oceanography. We have an excellent
reputation for both teaching and research,
and provide a diverse range of degree
programmes in a stimulating and supportive
environment. Training in analytical techniques
to study the marine environment is provided in
the new Central Teaching Laboratories using
state-of-the-art analytical equipment.
WHY CHOOSE OCEAN

SCIENCES AT LIVERPOOL
26/27
The combination of new facilities, our century

long record of marine research, links to the
National Oceanography Centre, Liverpool and
an interdisciplinary approach ensures that our
marine science graduates are highly regarded
and employable.
Research excellence in a friendly

environment. You will be taught by world-class
research-active staff who are at the forefront
of their chosen fields. Research-led teaching
ensures that you will learn about cuttingedge science before it is incorporated into
textbooks. Project work, carried out within the
research groups, will allow you to use research
equipment and latest techniques. All students
have a personal tutor, who can offer guidance
and support throughout your time at university.
Developing scientists to address global
environmental problems. Our degree
programmes are designed to produce
scientists with a range of skills, enabling our
students to have the flexibility to go into either
further scientific research, commercial or
industrial work, or indeed any role that requires
a high level of practical and analytical expertise.
We train students to critically assess scientific
hypotheses and concepts, and to construct
suitable routes to solving novel problems.

Ocean Sciences provides the opportunity

of developing these skills within the context
of an exciting subject that spans across the
traditional scientific disciplines. We are the only
University in the UK to train Ocean Science
students in data management and modelling
using industry standard software in Year Two,
so they can apply these skills in Year Three in
their research project.
Excellent facilities and exciting
opportunities. Training in analytical techniques
to study the marine environment is provided in
the new Central Teaching Laboratories using
state-of-the-art analytical equipment. Students
have 24-hour access to library and computing
facilities, and during final year projects, have
access to the Universitys research vessel.
Year Three projects are supervised by worldleading experts and allow students to tackle
real environmental issues. Recent projects
include using global ocean data sets to assess
the spatial variation in sea level change,
investigating the regional imprint of sea surface
temperature changes, investigating the impact
of oxygen minimum zones on deep sea benthic
macro-faunal communities, and using simple
models to investigate the impact of wind and
storms on the physical structure and biology
in the shelf seas.
A long tradition in Oceanography.

Liverpool has been a hub and world-leader
in Oceanography for over 170 years. In 1843,
the first observatory to study sea level was
built in the Waterloo dock in Liverpool. In 1919,
The University of Liverpool Tidal Institute was
created and began to predict the tide. By the
1950s, the Tidal Institute was predicting tides
for over two thirds of the worlds seas and
later developed the worlds first storm-surge
prediction model.The UK Meteorological Office
now uses an updated version of this model.
STUDY ABROAD
As part of your Ocean Sciences degree at
Liverpool you may have the opportunity to
study abroad. Studying abroad has huge
personal and academic benefits, as well as
giving you a head start in the graduate job
market. Ocean Science students can currently
apply to study abroad with a number of our
worldwide partners. For more information,
visit www.liverpool.ac.uk/goabroad

university, and many of our academic staff are leading
researchers in their fields. What this means for you
as a student is that your learning will be informed
by the very latest developments in Ocean Sciences.
CLIMATE CHANGE
28/29
Ocean
Sciences
We have been working on research that looks

into how the North Atlantic Ocean has been
warming over the last few decades. Rather
than a uniform warming extending over the
entire basin, we find that there are reversing
patterns of warming and cooling over the basin.
For example, over the last 30 years, the high
latitude waters have been warming, then
cooling and then warming again. We have
revealed how these temperature changes
are controlled, sometimes a result of changing
wind patterns and other times a result of
changing ocean heat transport. This warming
of the surface waters of the Atlantic Ocean is
important for us. It leads to the atmosphere
holding more moisture and probably
contributes to wetter summers in the UK.
In the shelf seas the response to a warming

climate is more easily seen. Unlike the deep
North Atlantic, the shallow waters around
our coasts can quickly reach a thermal
equilibrium with the warming atmosphere.
We have found a very strong correlation
between air and sea temperatures, with
the sea now warming on average by about
0.5 degrees Celsius per decade.
The implications of this climate change
are worrying.
IRON IS AN ESSENTIAL MICRONUTRIENT

FOR MARINE PHYTOPLANKTON.
We are currently conducting research to
understand the effects of both artificial and
natural fertilisation on biological communities
in the Southern Ocean. Artificial fertilisation
experiments involve the addition of an iron
compound, such as iron sulphate, to an ironlimited region to stimulate phytoplankton growth.
The findings from this study contribute to our

understanding of the global carbon cycle and
have implications for potential ways of
mitigating rising levels of carbon dioxide.
For more information about our research
in Ocean Sciences, please go to
www.liverpool.ac.uk/environmentsciences/research
We insure large property accounts such as hotel

resorts. When a client is looking for insurance we take
the information about the account such as the location
of the property, the construction material of the property
and the occupancy (eg hotel, hospital, school etc.) and
run this through the models to price the accounts.
Studying Ocean Sciences gave me meteorological
knowledge that is required for my job role. I need to be
able to understand how weather systems form and the
environmental parameters which can cause weather
systems to intensify from a tropical depression into a
hurricane. We use hurricane, tornado, earthquake, flood
and tsunami models and my mathematical knowledge
has helped me understand these. During my time at
Liverpool I participated in many team work activities
such as a three day sea practical to Oban, the team work
activities developed my team working skills so that I
can work efficiently with others to get the work done.
KATIE MCLOUGHLIN
MATHEMATICS WITH OCEAN AND CLIMATE STUDIES, GRADUATED 2010
A Lloyds syndicate property insurance

Graduate
Profile
Research in context
Over the past 20 years, a number of these

experiments have been carried out in the
Southern Ocean to investigate the potential to
fix and store carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas
responsible for global climate change. So far,
the experiments were inconclusive. However, a
recent study involving an Ocean Scientist from
Liverpool was the first to demonstrate that a
phytoplankton bloom generated by the addition
of iron can sink to the seafloor, taking with it the
carbon it has absorbed.
An investment
in your future
There has never been a better time to study
Ocean Sciences.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Our research funding organisation, the

Natural Environment Research Council (NERC),
recently performed a study to identify critical
skills gaps in the Environment sector, defined
as the parts of the UK that significantly rely
on, or generate, knowledge concerned with
the state and condition of the Earth. The top
six skills identified as being needed in the
environment sector were; computer modelling,
multi- disciplinarily, data management,
numeracy, communication and fieldwork.
We have close links with the National

Oceanography Centre in Liverpool. The
vast majority of our recent graduates gain
employment within a degree-related field
or continue within further education on
graduation. Skills gained by our students
during their degree programmes are critical
to the environment sector.
Our degree programmes are designed to

provide Ocean Sciences students with all of
these skills through training in industry standard
software for modelling and data management,
development of quantitative and communication
skills and opportunities for at-sea training
throughout the degree programme.
It inspires you to have lecturers who are world class

researchers. You learn how to do science rather than
what it is. Also, the National Oceanography Centre
has a base in Liverpool, so this is a very researchbased programme. The lecturers are very
approachable and the Central Teaching
Laboratories are a really useful resource.
WILL JOHNSTON
OCEANS, CLIMATE AND
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY BSC (HONS)
See what Will had to say about studying Oceans,

Climate and Physical Geography at Liverpool
www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/video

Each year, the National Oceanography
Centre in Liverpool offers at least one
competitive research placement for one
year. The placement involves working
closely with research scientists on new
and on-going oceanographic projects
and there are opportunities to go to sea
on a research cruise.
RECENT EMPLOYERS
30/31
Ocean
Sciences
Skills Review 2010, Natural Environment

Research Council, www.nerc.ac.uk/
funding/available/postgrad/skillsreview
Recent employers include:

British Oceanographic Data Centre
Environment Agency
Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences
Lloyds (property insurance)
Arcus Renewable Energy Consulting Ltd
VerdErg Connectors Limited
POSTGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES
More than 40% of our students go on to
further study on Masters or PhD programmes
in the UK and abroad.
Programme details
Degrees at a Glance
UCAS Code
Length (Years)
Page
Ocean Sciences BSc (Hons)
F700
34
Oceans, Climate and Physical Geography BSc (Hons)
FF78
37
Mathematics with Ocean and Climate Sciences BSc (Hons) G1F7
38
Marine Biology with Oceanography BSc (Hons)
C1F7
40
Ocean Sciences MOSci (Hons)
F710
35

Earth Sciences entry route leading to BSc (Hons)
F608
(4 year route including a Foundation Year at Carmel College)
24
This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree.

See www.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honours for further details.
Entrance Requirements
See www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses for current entrance requirements.
Foundation programmes have flexible entry requirements. For further information, download
the Foundation course brochure from the website below or contact Carmen Nuez at
Carmel College: E: degree@carmel.ac.uk T: +44 (0)1744 452 224 www.carmel.ac.uk
HOW YOU LEARN
FIELDWORK OPPORTUNITIES
Teaching takes place through lectures,

practicals, workshops, seminars, tutorials
and computer-based learning, with an
emphasis on learning through doing. The
new Central Teaching Laboratory opened
in 2012 provides a state-of-the-art facility
for undergraduate practical work.
Ocean Sciences degree programmes include

fieldwork taught by scientists who regularly
spend time at sea collecting data for their
research. In Year One, students are taught the
basic skills in fieldwork and sampling at sea. In
Year Two, students use their skills in sampling
to study the local coastal environment on board
the RV Marisa, the Universitys own research
vessel. In Year Three, students participate in
a seven day field course during which they
spend three days at sea around Oban in
Scotland on the RV Calanus. Students collect
samples and data and make observations in
order to understand the chemical, biological
and physical characteristics of the coastal
environment and how they interact. Students
can also conduct fieldwork in the local marine
environment using the RV Marisa as part of
their major research project in the final year.
Students value the learning opportunities

provided by field classes, including the rapid
feedback on performance. Students typically
receive approximately 15 hours of formal
teaching each week, and participate in between
30 and 80 hours of residential field courses
each year depending on the discipline. A typical
module might involve two-three one hour
lectures each week, and often a three-hour
laboratory or computer-based practical as well.
Tutorials typically involve groups of four to seven
students meeting with a member of staff at least
every two weeks in Year One and Two. In Year
Three, students undertake an Honours project,
which is a piece of independent research (field,
laboratory or data analysis) on a topic of their
choice, supervised by a member of staff.
Students in Year Three meet with their project
supervisor on a weekly or more frequent basis.
32/33
Ocean
Sciences
As students progress through their degree,

they are increasingly challenged to engage
with current debates, to think critically and
to study independently.
WHICH DEGREE
Ocean sciences is the study of how the ocean
affects the climate, the cycling of chemical
elements and how life is sustained on our planet.
It involves the application of fundamental
physical, chemical and biological principles
to the marine environment. We offer three-year
BSc (Hons) programmes in Ocean and Climate
Sciences in combination with Mathematics,
Physics, Chemistry and Physical Geography,
as well as in Marine Biology with Oceanography,
which focuses on the interaction between
biological and physical processes. We also
offer a four-year programme in Ocean Sciences
(MOSci) designed to provide the high-level
skills and training to become a research scientist.
All Ocean Sciences degree programmes
involve fieldwork at sea and are offered in
collaboration with the National Oceanography
Centre, Liverpool.


Ocean Sciences BSc (Hons)

UCAS code: F700
Ocean Sciences enquiries:
oceansciences@liverpool.ac.uk
The marine environment is a dynamic,
heterogeneous and biologically diverse system
that is driven by a combination of physical and
chemical processes. It experiences extremes
of temperature, pressure and salinity and is
often impacted by catastrophic events (both
natural and manmade) that can influence
thousands of square kilometres of surface
ocean and sea floor. The oceans moderate and
respond to climate change, with variations in
oceanic conditions affecting life in the oceans
and potentially causing further global change.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
34/35
Ocean
Sciences
This degree programme will provide an

understanding of the key drivers in the marine
system, through exploration of physical and
biogeochemical processes. It will focus on
practical aspects of marine science and will
provide grounding in hands on quantitative
studies of chemical and physical marine
science. There will be the opportunity to
participate in field/project work using the
Universitys research vessel throughout the
course of your studies, as well as a full sea
practical using other UK marine facilities
during Year Three. You will undertake a
major research project in your final year.
This programme consists of two distinct

pathways, Chemistry and Physics, each
with their own mix of modules from the
School of Physical Sciences. Scientists
from the National Oceanography Centre
in Liverpool provide guest lectures and
supervision of projects.
Chemistry route
Organic Chemistry II
Preparative Chemistry: Synthesis
and Characterisation
Measurements in Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry II
Year One
Students on the physics pathway select

one option from:
Students take the following core modules:

Condensed Matter
Climatology
Nuclear and Particle Physics
Chemistry route
Inorganic Chemistry III
Organic Chemistry III
Chemical Database Skills
Coastal Environments:
Spatial and Temporal Change
Climate Change a Critical Review
Inorganic Applications of Group Theory
This subject can be taken as part
of a Combined Honours degree. See
www.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honours
for further details.
Year Three
Physics route
Mathematics for Physicists I
Newtonian Dynamics
The Material Universe
Mathematics for Physicists II
Wave Phenomena
Chemistry route
Introductory Organic Chemistry
Introductory Spectroscopy
Introductory Inorganic Chemistry
Introductory Physical Chemistry
Year Two
Ocean Data Analysis
Experimental Physical Oceanography
Life in a Dynamic Ocean
Marine Biogeochemical Cycles:
from theory to practice
Physics route
Electromagnetism
Mathematics for Physicists III
Mathematics for Physicists IV

Ocean Sciences Research project
Marine Sciences Special Topics
Sea Practical
Ocean Dynamics
Ocean Carbon Cycle
Students select two options from:
Physics route
Nuclear Physics
Coastal Environments: Spatial
and Temporal Change
Advanced Electromagnetism
Physics of Life
Ocean Sciences MOSci

UCAS code: F710
The marine environment plays an integral part
in regulating our climate and cycling chemical
elements and supports more than half of global
biological productivity. Yet there remain many
major questions in ocean sciences. How will
the ocean respond to changes in our climate?
How will sea level rise globally and regionally?
What is the impact of increases in temperature
and carbon dioxide on the microbes living in
the ocean? This newly developed four-year
Masters programme will provide you with
the high-level skills and knowledge required
to work in a research environment and
address the challenges in ocean science.
There is a strong emphasis on numerical
skills, hands-on laboratory and fieldwork
at sea and independent study.


You will have the opportunity to work with

scientists from the National Oceanography
Centre (Liverpool), who are international leaders
in sea level science and shelf sea physics.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
The first three years follow BSc (Hons) degree
programmes offered in Ocean Sciences, with
specific pathways in Mathematics, Chemistry,
Biology, Physics, and Geography. Semester
one of Year Four is focused on developing
your knowledge and skills in laboratory
techniques and data analysis, writing and
reviewing research ideas, and discussing
current research issues in ocean science.
Modules highlighting the interdisciplinary
nature of Ocean Sciences are offered.
36/37
Ocean
Sciences
Training in semester one will provide you

with the skills to conduct an independent
research project in semester two, which will
be supervised by Ocean Scientists from the
University and the National Oceanography
Centre in Liverpool. This high-level training
will prepare you with the critical thinking,
communication and writing skills you will
need to work in a research environment,
as well as an awareness of the future
challenges in Ocean Sciences.
Year One
Year Four
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Your training will cover core topics in

Oceanography, Physical Geography,
Geology and Ecology as well as modules
in IT and Communication Skills. There will be
the opportunity to participate in field/project
work using the Universitys research vessel
throughout the course of your studies, as
well as a full sea practical using other UK
marine facilities during your final year. You
will undertake a major research project.
Scientists from the National Oceanography
Centre in Liverpool provide guest lectures
and supervision of projects. Students without
mathematics, physics or chemistry at A level
will be required to take remedial courses.
Study skills and GIS

Ocean Chemistry and Life Biology route
Year Two
Ocean Data Analysis
from Theory to Practice
Year Three
Sea Practical
Ocean Sciences Research Project
Ocean Dynamics
Ocean Carbon Cycle
For required and optional modules for specific
routes in Years One, Two and Three, please
see the following:
Biology route: C1F7 Marine Biology with
Oceanography
Chemistry route: F700 Ocean Sciences
Geography route: FF78 Oceans,
Climate and Physical Geography
Mathematics route: G1F7 Mathematics
with Ocean and Climate Sciences
Physics Route: F700 Ocean Sciences
Ocean Sciences Masters Research Project

Data analysis of Environmental Records
Ocean Models
Ocean Biogeochemical Cycles
Ocean and Climate Sciences
Students can choose one optional module
from a range of Masters Level modules from
across the School.
Oceans, Climate and Physical

Geography BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: FF78
Year One

The way that the Earth behaves as a system
results from interactions between the land,
the oceans and the atmosphere. Complex
issues such as climate change, sea level
rise and environmental pollution can only
be fully understood if all the different facets
of the Earths behaviour are considered. While
the Ocean Sciences deal with present day and
future climate change scenarios, the link to
physical geography provides an understanding
of changes in climate over the last several
thousand years to provide context for recent
climate change. This was the first UK university
programme to combine land, ocean and
climate studies in an integrated programme
of study.

Experiments in Physical Geography II


Students select three options from:

Scientists
Introduction to Sedimentary
Rocks and Fossils
Ecology and Conservation
Experiments in Physical Geography I
Changes in Earth Surface Processes
An introduction to Marine Ecosystems
Year Two
Ocean Data Analysis
Environmental Change
Geomorphology: Ice, Sea and Air
Climatology
Students select one option from:
38/39
Ocean
Sciences
Human Impact on Marine Ecosystems

Catchment Hydrology
Statistics for Environmental Scientists
Principles and Theory in Geography
Soils, Slopes and the Environment
Year Three
Ocean Sciences Research project
Sea Practical
Ocean Dynamics
Ocean Carbon Cycle
Coastal Environments: Spatial
and Temporal Change
Mathematics with Ocean and

Climate Sciences BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: G1F7
Predicting climate and climate change is a
major challenge facing the scientific community.
The oceans regulate the climate of the planet
through storing and transporting heat as
well as modifying properties of the overlying
atmosphere. Complex issues such as climate
change and sea level rise can only be fully
understood if the role of the ocean and
atmosphere is fully appreciated. This degree
provides an understanding of how the
ocean and atmosphere operate in the
climate system, as well as offering a strong
grounding in mathematics.
It is offered in collaboration between the

Department of Mathematics in the School
of Physical Sciences and the internationally
renowned National Oceanography Centre in
Liverpool, providing excellent preparation for
careers in computer modelling in oceanography,
meteorology or environmental monitoring.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Students acquire a broad knowledge
of mathematics and the analytical and
numerical techniques for solving problems,
and the ability to apply those techniques with
confidence. Students gain an understanding
of how the climate system behaves, how the
atmosphere and ocean transport heat, why
jets and eddies emerge on a rotating planet,
how tracers are transported and mixed,
and how these processes affect the growth
of phytoplankton.
Year One
Calculus I
Introduction to Linear Algebra
Introduction to Statistics
Calculus II
Dynamic Modelling
Year Two
Ocean Data Analysis
Ordinary Differential Equations
Vector Calculus
Methods of Applied Mathematics
Climatology
Classical Mechanics
Numerical Analysis and Linear Equations
Year Three
Ocean Sciences Research Project
Sea Practical
Ocean Dynamics
Ocean Carbon Cycle
Further Methods of Applied Mathematics
Chaos and Dynamics Systems
Population Dynamics


Marine Biology with

Oceanography BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: C1F7
Understanding the physical and chemical
factors that control the distribution, growth
and success of marine organisms, from
microscopic plants to commercially important
fish, is vital for sustaining and managing a
diverse and healthy marine ecosystem. You
will study the interaction between the biology
of individuals, populations and communities,
the composition and properties of seawater
and the physical processes that transport
seawater and its contents.
Throughout the degree, there is a

strong emphasis on marine sustainability
and ecosystem management, marine
biogeochemistry, climate studies and
numerical skills. Training on our research
vessel, in the field, and in the laboratory in
Years One, Two and Three will provide you
with training and practical experience of
data collection, processing, analysis and
interpretation: the essential skills required
to be a successful marine scientist.
Year One
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Throughout the three-year programme,

core modules in Marine Biology and Ocean
Sciences will provide you with observational,
analytical and numerical skills. You will also
have a choice of optional modules from within
the School of Environmental Science and the
School of Life Sciences.
40/41
Ocean
Sciences
In the final year, students take advanced

modules in an area of interest, and spend a
large amount of time working on a research
project in either in Marine Biology, Ocean
Sciences or a topic that combines the two
disciplines. The degree in Marine Biology
with Oceanography at Liverpool is accredited
by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science
and Technology.

Marine Biology: Life in the Sea and Oceans
Laboratory and Field Techniques for Marine
and Terrestrial Ecologists
Marine Ecosystems: Diversity, Processes
and Threats

Scientists
Evolution and Biodiversity
Microbiology
Applied Genetics and Molecular
Technologies
Year Two
Research Skills in Ecology
Human Impacts on Marine Ecosystems
Marine Ecology Field Studies
Physiology, Behaviour and Ecology
of Marine Organisms

Marine Biology Practical Skills
Key Skills for Ocean Scientists
Marine Biochemical Cycles: from Theory
to Practice
Advanced Techniques in Zoology
Year Three
Ocean Sciences Research Project or
Honours Project Marine Biology
Marine Biology: Contemporary Issues
or Sea Practical
Students select four options from:
Ocean Dynamics
Surviving the Marine Environment:
Adaptation Behaviour and Conservation
Ocean Carbon Cycle
Marine Ecology and Management
Conservation Biology
Advanced Topics in Ecology
Marine Ecology: From the Palaeozic
to the Future Ocean


42/43
Ocean
Sciences
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Liverpool was the first UK university to offer a degree in
Marine Biology, and is an established leader in Ecology.
We are part of the School of Environmental Sciences
and share close links with Ocean Sciences, Geography,
Earth Sciences and the School of Life Sciences.
As part of the Universitys on-going
commitment to the environment, we have
created a new School of Environmental
Sciences, which covers all aspects of the
environment, from geology and oceanography
to terrestrial, freshwater and marine biology,
physical and human geography, and planning.
Our research into the vulnerability of marine

species and habitats to fishing and coastal
development is used by British and European
government agencies such as the Department
for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the
International Council for the Exploration of the
Sea to develop sustainable management plans.
The School provides a range of programmes

and a diversity of module choices which give
students the ability to gain multi-disciplinary
skills, essential in todays job market.
Another hot topic we are currently studying

is the impact of burning upland vegetation
on ecosystem carbon storage, water quality
and biodiversity.
WHY CHOOSE ECOLOGY AND MARINE

BIOLOGY AT LIVERPOOL?
44/45
World-leading research. Liverpool has a

long history of research in Ecology and Marine
Biology. This research is increasingly being
used to help solve environmental problems.
Field teaching. Field teaching is at the

centre of learning in all years, because it gives
students an understanding of the natural
environment that cannot be achieved in the
classroom alone. Our residential field course
locations currently include Wales, Scotland
and Ireland but we also regularly get out into
the local area around Merseyside, Cheshire,
Lancashire and North Wales.

Friendly and supportive atmosphere. All

the academic staff contribute to teaching.
Intensive field courses and projects will give
you the opportunity to work in small groups
with a high level of staff supervision. All students
are allocated a personal tutor for every year
of study. Your tutor will guide and support you
throughout your time at university and help to
prepare you for the next step in your career.
International experience. All of our students
can undertake an independent study visit
overseas. This exposes students to working
practices and culture in other countries and
gives them a chance to gain work experience
and expand their network of contacts. Many
of our students take the chance to study
abroad during their second year with one of
our exchange partners such as Lund University
in Sweden or Monash University in Australia.
Optional overseas field courses to Uganda
and California are exciting opportunities to
explore new ecosystems.
Excellent facilities. Liverpool has invested
heavily in teaching facilities. The Biology
Teaching Centre was recently given a complete
refurbishment, and our custom-built research
vessel Marisa was delivered in 2009.The
award-winning Central Teaching Laboratories,
opened in 2012, provide state-of-the-art
facilities and equipment for practical work,
field work and analytical skills such as
Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
Liverpool is one of two hosting partners for the
National Oceanography Centre (NOC). Located
in the adjacent building, NOC help in particular
with research-led teaching in the final year.
HOW YOU LEARN

Teaching strategies include a mix of lectures,
tutorials, workshops, field classes, research
vessel cruises, laboratory work, computer
sessions, group projects and individual
work under supervision.
Students typically receive around 15 hours

of formal teaching each week, as well as
about 60 hours on residential field courses
each year. A typical module might involve
two one-hour lectures each week, and a
laboratory or computer-based practical
as well.
Tutorials typically involve groups of five-seven
students meeting with a member of staff every
other week (in Years One and Two) or at least
three times a semester (in Year Three).
As they progress through their degree,
students are increasingly challenged to
engage with current debates, to think critically
and to study independently. All students do
an Honours Project throughout the year in
Year Three, which is a piece of independent
research (field, lab or data analysis) on a topic
of their choice, supervised by a member of
academic staff. Students on the four-year
Integrated Masters programmes spend 50%
of their final year on their Masters Project.
Working closely within a research group,
we encourage students to publish this
research if possible.
HOW YOU ARE ASSESSED

Assessment matches the learning objectives
for each module and may take the form of
written exams, coursework submissions in
the form of essays, scientific papers, briefing
notes or lab/field notebooks, oral and poster
presentations and contributions to group
projects.
STUDY ABROAD
As part of your degree you may have the
opportunity to study abroad. Studying
abroad has huge personal and academic
benefits, as well as giving you a head start in
the graduate job market. Current opportunities
include the University of Lund, Sweden,
through the Erasmus programme, as well
as a number of our worldwide exchange
partnerships. For more information, visit
www.liverpool.ac.uk/goabroad
Research in context
university, and many of our academic staff are
leading researchers in their fields. What this
means for you as a student is that your learning
will be informed by the very latest developments
in Ecology and Marine Biology.
I picked marine biology because

starting from school I had a great
interest in biological sciences, but also
I was interested in the ecology side and
the environment and conservation, and
this is a great course that combines both
of those. The University of Liverpool
has a great reputation for research-led
teaching so you know that the work
youll be doing will be really up-to-date.
SAM POWNALL
MARINE BIOLOGY BSC (HONS)
An example of a current area of research

is within the Marine Biology programme
directors (Dr Leonie Robinson) research
group, which is investigating the settlement
and recruitment of the invasive barnacle
species Austrominius modestus using Antony
Gormleys Another Place an installation of
100 life-sized cast iron statues positioned
at various tidal heights along 3 km of the
foreshore at Crosby Beach, Liverpool.
46/47
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Early research funded by the British Ecological

Society revealed that the distribution of the
barnacles could be predicted using factors
such as height above sea level, exposure
level, aspect and topographic complexity.
The Gormley statues provided a novel way

of exploring the influence of such factors
which vary across the different parts of the
body (eg the chest versus the inner thigh)
and the placement of the statues over the
beach gives a range of shore heights.
The cues responsible for settlement of
marine larvae have been extensively studied,
especially for barnacle species such as
Cthamalus montagui and Semibalanus
balanoides . It is suggested that settlement
is reliant on numerous biological, chemical,
and physical factors, which lead to patterns
indicative of gregarious attraction by newly
settling individuals to extant individuals of the
same species. Given the interest in the factors
affecting the spread and establishment of
unwanted (non-native) species and their
implications for damage to native biodiversity,
the team is now exploring small-scale
recruitment processes using experiments
on the Crosby statues to determine if such
cues can affect the spatial distribution (spread)
of the invasive barnacle A. modestus.

See what Sam had to say about

studying Marine Biology at Liverpool
www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/
undergraduate/video
Our recent graduates have gone on to a range

of positions within the sector, including offshore
surveyor, seabird research assistant, field assistant
on mammal surveys, and conducting environmental
surveys for construction work. Others have pursued
graduate-level careers outside of science such as
media and teaching.
48/49
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Essential transferable skills ranging from

organisation and time management to
communication, writing, presentations and
numeracy are embedded throughout our
programmes. There is a strong focus on
preparation for future work including a
CV Masterclass from a recruitment industry
professional and a programme of visits
from recent graduates.
We encourage our students to gain niche

skills through our relationships with specialist
providers. These include Liverpool University
Sub-Aqua Club for diving, the Field Studies
Council for species identification and OrcaWeb
for marine mammal identification and survey
techniques.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Our graduates have gone on to a wide
range of careers, including fisheries observers,
environmental consultancy, administration
teaching, and working in an international
bank. Many of our graduates choose to
continue their studies at Masters or PhD
level on topics such as fish assemblages in
mangroves, marine ecosystem responses
to climate change and carbon sequestration
in soils.
GEORGINA KING
ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT BSC (HONS)
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISOR, BABCOCK INTERNATIONAL GROUP
Graduate
Profile
An investment
in your future
I am currently working as an environmental

advisor for Babcock International Group PLC.
My current job involves working within
construction-specifically the power grid-and
advising on key ecological and environmental
issues such as nesting birds and working near
protected species. My time at university not only
gave me the required ecological grounding to succeed
in this this field but also taught me a number of
key skills which I use every day in my work.
RECENT EMPLOYERS
The importance of work and volunteer

experience is stressed to our students from
Welcome Week onwards. We maintain an
up-to-date list of organisations in the local
area who take on volunteers every year
and opportunities exist within the School
for work experience every summer. The
overseas study visit is an opportunity for
students to gain work experience overseas.
Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC),

United Utilities, Fairbanks Environmental,
Earth and Marine Environmental Consultants,
Universities of Liverpool, Manchester &
Southampton.
We are part of a competitive placement

scheme funded by the Countryside Council
for Wales (CCW) and each year our Year Two
students can apply to spend a fully-funded year
working with the CCW marine team. Honours
projects offered in collaboration with the NOC,
The Thresher Shark Research and Consevation
Project, Liverpool World Museum Aquarium
and Clore Natural History Centre are also
a great chance to gain work experience.
Postgraduate opportunities at the

University of Liverpool:
MRes/MSc Conservation and Resource
Management
MSc Marine Planning and Management
MSc Environmental Management

Prog amme details

Degrees at a Glance
UCAS Code
Length (Years)
Page
Ecology and Environment BSc (Hons)
C192
51
Master of Ecology
C180
53
Marine Biology BSc (Hons)
C160
53
Master of Marine Biology
C161
56
Marine Biology with Oceanography BSc (Hons)
C1F7
56
Programme offered elsewhere in the School of Environmental Sciences

F750
3
Programme with a Foundation element
56

Biological Sciences (with a Foundation Year)
leading to BSc (Hons) (4 year route including
a Foundation Year at Carmel College)
C108
For a more interdisciplinary approach,

students may also take modules from
Ocean Sciences, Geography and Geology,
including marine pollution, oceans and
climate, and environmental change.
In the first year of study there are several

common elements between all of our
programmes, so if you are not sure, you can
very easily switch between them. We also offer
a popular foundation route, which includes an
additional preparatory year at Carmel College.
A major strength is the emphasis on practical

and field-based work. In particular, students
take field work modules in all three years of
their degree. Some students also take summer
modules with the Field Studies Council in field
identification of organisms such as plants,
amphibians and reptiles, and bats, which give
them additional skills for environmental work.
Ecology and Environment

BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: C192
You will take field courses in areas such as the

Lake District, Devon and West Wales. You will
also make short visits to important ecological
sites, and to the sites affected by industry
in Merseyside and the Northwest. There
are opportunities for additional residential
field courses at centres across the UK and
overseas (currently Uganda and California).
58
WHICH DEGREE
50/51
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Ecology and Environment incorporates the

study of all ecosystems, including terrestrial
and freshwater, how their residents interact
with each other and their response to
human influences.
We offer three BSc (Hons) degrees in Marine

Biology, Marine Biology with Oceanography
and Ecology and Environment. We also offer
new four-year Integrated Masters programmes
in Marine Biology (MMarBiol) and Ecology (MEcol).
Marine Biology is the study of all life in the sea,
from the physiology and behaviour of individual
organisms to the structure and organisation
of entire marine communities. Marine Biology
with Oceanography focuses on how physical
and chemical processes in the oceans shape
these biological interactions.
There are at least two compelling reasons

why Ecology and Environment are important
subjects at degree level. First, the world is
faced with profound environmental and
ecological challenges. Second, in response
to this, employment in the environmental
sector is currently healthy and growing
for suitably qualified graduates.
Our Ecology and Environment programme
gives students a thorough knowledge of
the relevant science, and prepares them for
employment in the environmental sector.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Ecology is at the heart of our programme,
with core concepts ranging from ecosystem
structure and function to population dynamics.
These fundamentals are complemented
by applied topics including urban ecology,
marine ecology and management, biodiversity
and conservation biology, and new computer
technologies such as Geographical Information
Systems.
Year One
The compulsory modules develop the
essential skills required to be an Ecologist
and build a foundation of knowledge on the
physical and biological environments. The
optional modules allow you to focus a little
more on the subjects that interest you.
The core modules are:
Practical Skills for Ecologists
Ecology and the Global Environment


These are supplemented by two optional

modules from the following:
Marine Biology: Life in the Seas and Oceans
Climate Atmosphere and Oceans
Scientists
Animal Biodiversity
Applied Genetic and Molecular Technologies
Microbiology
and Threats
Year Two
Compulsory modules develop more
specialist skills and knowledge in Ecology
and Environment. Optional modules
include a choice of ecological, environmental,
geographical and biological topics, indicating
the breadth and depth of this subject area.
52/53
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Research Skills
Biodiversity Practical Skills
Application of GIS for Ecology and
Marine Biology
Population and Community Ecology
Ecology Practical Skills
These are supplemented with three

optional modules from the following:
Introduction to Behavioural Ecology
Evolutionary Biology
Environmental Sustainability
Physiology Ecology and Behaviour
of Marine Organisms
Quaternary Environmental Change
Catchment Hydrology
Comparative Animal Physiology
Tropical Ecology Field Course
Soils, Slopes and Environment
Climatology
Year Three
The core compulsory modules focus on
research skills and include your independent
research project. A wide choice of specialist
research-led modules from right across
the University allows you to focus on the
subjects which interest you the most.
There are four compulsory courses in the
final year:
Contemporary Issues in Ecology
and Environment
Honours Project Ecology and
Environment/Marine Biology
Advanced Field Skills in Ecology
In addition, depending on your individual
interests, you will choose optional modules
that focus on theory, field or laboratory
studies, ranging from ecology and conservation
to animal behaviour and from coastal
environments to geographical field courses.
We tailor the final years study to your desires
and our expert opinion of what will make you
marketable as a graduate.
Fieldwork Opportunities:
Students go on week-long residential field
courses in each year of study. We also make
day trips around the local area, to make
the most of the wide range of ecosystems
in Merseyside and the North West.
Master of Ecology
UCAS code: C180
Our new four-year Integrated Masters
programme is designed to train highperforming students to the best possible
standard to prepare them for PhD research
and employment.
Marine Biology BSc (Hons)

UCAS code: C160
Marine Biology enquiries:
marinebiology@liverpool.ac.uk
From microscopic algae to giant whales,
most of our planets life is found in the
oceans. As a marine biologist, you will study
the whole range of marine organisms, and
their interactions with each other and their
environment. You will learn about the behaviour,
physiology, and ecology of marine organisms,
and how marine food webs are influenced by
global warming and fisheries. Applied aspects
of the programme include monitoring, pollution,
conservation, and aquaculture. We produce
marine biologists with knowledge and skills that
make them employable in the 21st century.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
You will follow the BSc programme for the first
three years and then subject to performance,
proceed to the final Masters year. During this
year you will focus on gaining additional
research experience and an advanced
understanding of ecology through specialist
modules and a field course to the Lake District.
Conservation and Resource Management
Field Course
Masters Project
These are supplemented with three optional
Advanced Ecology: Conserving Resources
Advanced Statistics for Biological Research
Geographical Information Systems
Human Impacts on Environments
Advanced Conservation Biology
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Modern marine biology requires a wide range
of skills, from field work to data analysis. The
first two years of study help you develop these
core skills. There are week-long field courses
in every year of study and an opportunity to use
our research vessel Marisa. Students currently
make an independent overseas study visit
in the summer of the second year, for which
past destinations include Australia, Tanzania,
Ecuador and Iceland.
In the third year, you will take advanced
modules in your area of interest, and
spend a large amount of time working
on your independent research project.


Recent projects include investigating

physiological data on how cormorants
stay warm while diving in frigid Arctic waters,
building mathematical models of coral reefs,
and looking at the impacts of a wind farm
on benthic communities using our new,
purpose-built research vessel.
Year One
We have close links with the School of Life

Sciences, Ocean Sciences, and Geography,
and our students have the option of choosing
modules in these subjects in each year of
study. Subject choices include those related
to climate change and ocean physics, through
to population ecology, physiology, parasitology,
microbiology, molecular biology and genetics.
The Marine Biology degree at Liverpool is

one of only a handful in the UK to be accredited
by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science
and Technology. The combination of new
facilities, our century-long record of marine
research, and an interdisciplinary approach
to biology ensures that our marine biology
graduates have a record of success in the
graduate job market.
These are supplemented with three optional

Compulsory modules develop the essential

skills required to be a Marine Biologist and
build a foundation of knowledge on the physical
and biological environments. Optional modules
allow you to focus a little more on the subjects
that are of particular interest to you.

Marine Biology: Life in the Seas and Oceans
and Threats

Climate Atmosphere and Oceans
Scientists
Applied Genetic and Molecular Technologies
Microbiology
Ecology and the Global Environment
54/55
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Year Two
Compulsory modules develop more
specialist skills and knowledge in Marine
Biology. Optional modules include a breadth
of choice of Biological, Oceanographical,
Ecological and Environmental topics.

Research Skills
Physiology Ecology and Behaviour
of Marine Organisms
Marine Biology Practical Skills: Surveying
the Mersey Estuary
Advanced Techniques in Zoology
These are supplemented with two optional
Introduction to Behavioural Ecology
Evolutionary Biology
Environmental Sustainability
Population and Community Ecology
Application of GIS for Ecology and
Marine Biology
Year Three
The core compulsory modules focus on
research skills and include your independent
research project. A wide choice of specialist
research-led modules from right across the
University allows you to focus on the subjects
which interest you the most.
These are supplemented with four optional

Surviving the Marine Environment:
Adaptation, Behaviour and Conservation
Coastal Environments: Spatial and
Temporal Change
Marine Ecology and Management
Marine Ecology: From the Palaeozoic
to the Future Ocean
Advanced Topics in Animal Behaviour
Evolution
Fieldwork Opportunities:
Students go on week-long residential field
courses in each year of study. We also make
the most of the unrivalled diversity of marine
ecosystems in our local area which include
estuaries, mudflats, restored and commercial
docks, sandy shores and dune systems, rocky
coasts and offshore in the Irish Sea. We visit
these sites on whole-day and half-day trips,
using our research vessel where appropriate.
We tailor the final years study to your desires

and our expert opinion of what will make you
marketable as a graduate. The combination of
newly developed marine and oceanographic
facilities at Liverpool, and our interdisciplinary
approach to biology ensures that we produce
high quality marine scientists.
Marine Biology: Contemporary Issues
Honours Project Ecology and
Environment/Marine Biology

Master of Marine Biology

UCAS code: C161
Marine Biology enquiries:
marinebiology@liverpool.ac.uk
Our new four-year Integrated Masters
programme is designed to train highperforming Marine Biologists to the best
possible standard to prepare them for PhD
research and employment. You will follow the
BSc programme for the first three years and
then subject to performance, proceed to the
final Masters year. During this year you will
gain further skills in data analysis and conduct
an advanced research project to publication
standard. Specialist modules will focus on
the latest research and issues in our field.
Mastering Marine Biology
Masters Project
Advanced Statistics for Biological Research
These are supplemented with two optional
56/57
Ecology and
Marine Biology
Advanced Ecology: Conserving Resources

Dynamic Population Modelling
Advanced Conservation Biology
Marine Planning and Management in Action
Marine Biology with

Oceanology BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: C1F7
Understanding the physical and chemical
factors that control the distribution, growth
and success of marine organisms, from
microscopic plants to commercially important
fish, is vital for sustaining and managing a
diverse and healthy marine ecosystem. You
will study the interaction between the biology
of individuals, populations and communities,
the composition and properties of seawater
and the physical processes that transport
seawater and its contents. Throughout the
degree, there is a strong emphasis on marine
sustainability and ecosystem management,
marine biogeochemistry, climate studies and
numerical skills. Training on our research vessel,
in the field, and in the laboratory in Years One,
Two and Three will provide you with training
and practical experience of data collection,
processing, analysis and interpretation: the
essential skills required to be a successful
marine scientist.
See page 40 for details of the programme
content.
Degrees offered with

other Departments
UCAS code: F750
The Environmental Sciences degree provides
a wide breadth of study opportunities from
across the School of Environmental Sciences.
It provides you with an opportunity to either

take a broad range of modules throughout the
three years of your study, or choose a particular
area of specialism. If you are interested in the
environment and recognise that the solutions
to future environmental challenges are going
to require solutions from across traditional
disciplines, then the Environmental Sciences
degree at Liverpool is for you.
Year One
PROGRAMME CONTENT
In addition, students must take two of

the following optional modules. Maths and
Physics for Environmental Scientists; Marine
Ecosystems: Diversity Processes and Threats,
Living with Environmental Change; Ecology
and the Global Environment; Introduction to
Sedimentary Rocks and Fossils; Environmental
Chemistry; Marine Biology: Life in the Seas
and Oceans; Ocean Chemistry and Life;
Town and Country Planning: An Introduction;
Contemporary Town Planning; Climate,
Atmosphere and Oceans; Minerals Magmas
and Volcanoes; Microbiology; Earth Structure
and Plate Tectonics; Animal Biodiversity;
Urban and Environmental Economics.
The Environmental Sciences degree provides

a range of modules which focus on pressing
environmental issues, questions and solutions.
All of our modules centre on real world issues
and application, with a wide variety of options
including Ecology and Conservation; Dynamic
Landscapes; Biodiversity of Animals;
Environmental Change; Marine Resource
Exploitation and Environmental Chemistry.
Practicals and project work are carried out
both individually and in groups and all students
are given a firm grounding in the latest
geographical techniques and technologies
through core units on research methods
and Geographical Information Systems.
Compulsory modules:
Experiments in Physical Geography
Changes in Earth Surface Processes
Year Two
Practical and field-based experiences are
central to our degree and students will have
core and optional fieldwork modules in all three
years of their degree. You will have opportunity
to undertake fieldwork in locations such as
Almeria (Spain) and Santa Cruz (California).
We also take advantage of Liverpools ideal
location to make shorter visits to Wales, the
Lake District, and Scotland to exemplify many
of the themes and issues that you address
in the course.
You will be assigned a personal tutor in each
of the three years who will provide pastoral
care and help you in your skills development
and preparation for your chosen path after
your degree.
Compulsory modules:
Research Skills
Environmental Science Field Class
In addition, students must take at least three
of the following modules (or combinations),
with at least one module from each group.
Group A: Environmental Change; Soils,
Slopes and the Environment; Sedimentary
Processes and Depositional Environments;
Geomorphology; Catchment Hydrology;
Climatology.


Year Three
Compulsory modules:
Dissertation (or work based dissertation)
Contemporary Issues in Ecology
and Environment
A field class either Santa Cruz or Almeria
58/59
Ecology and
Marine Biology
In addition, students must take at least two

from the following modules: Surviving the
Marine Environment: Adaptation, Behaviour
and Conservation; Geographies of Energy
and Natural Resources; Human-Environment
Interactions; Conservation Biology; Politics
of the Environment; Fluvial Environments;
Advanced skills in Ecology and Environment;
Marine Ecology and Management; Ocean
Dynamics; Issues, Planning Law and
Governance; Climate Change A Critical
Review; Coastal Environments: Spatial and
Temporal Change; Field class Santa Cruz
or Field class Almeria; Advanced Topics in
Ecology; Marine Ecology from the Palaeozoic
to the Future Ocean.
Finally, students may take up to one module,

approved by the programme director, taught
by other departments (normally in science or
language subjects) in Years Two and Three.
Students are assessed using a wide range
of assessment techniques including: exams,
essays, laboratory and computer practicals,
field assignments, group work, oral
presentation and dissertations.
The Environmental Sciences degree includes
field classes in all three years of the course.
Practical and project work are undertaken both
individually and in groups, and you will learn
statistical procedures, computing techniques,
data analysis and presentation skills.
Programme with
a Foundation Year
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Year Zero
The first year comprises introductory modules

in Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics at
Carmel College. Years Two, Three and Four
at Liverpool follow the chosen area of interest
through to BSc (Hons) completion.
Based at Carmel College in St Helens, about

nine miles from the main University campus.
Carmel College offers small class sizes and
high standards of academic achievement.
The programme, which is moderated by
University staff, comprises introductory
modules in Chemistry, Biology, Applications
of Biology and Mathematics.
Programme options are:

Biochemistry (C700)
Biological Sciences (C100)
Combined Honours Geography
and Biology (BCG0)
Ecology and Environment (C192)
Genetics (C400)
Marine Biology (C160)
Marine Biology with Oceanography (C1F7)
Microbiology (C500)
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (C720)
Pharmacology (B210)
Tropical Diseases Biology (C111)
Zoology (C300)
Years One, Two and Three

After completing Year Zero, students move to
the main university campus and join entrants
onto the equivalent degree programmes listed
above. From this point onwards, students
follow the same curriculum for Ecology and
Environment (C192, see page 51), Marine
Biology (C160, see page 53) or Marine Biology
with Oceanography (C1F7, see page 40).
Biological Sciences
(with a Foundation Year)
leading to BSc (Hons)
UCAS code: C108
Key contact: Carmen Nunez
E: degree@carmel.ac.uk
Intended for adult learners or undergraduates
who wish to take up Biology but do not have
the appropriate subject background, Biological
Sciences offers a foundation year at nearby
Carmel College, situated in St. Helens, nine
miles from the main University precinct.
This is not a programme in itself but acts
as a springboard on to other programmes
in Life Sciences and Environmental Sciences.

59
Group B: Environmental Sustainability;

Human Impacts on Marine Ecosystems;
An Introduction to Environmental History;
Estuaries Their Geochemistry and Life;
Population and Community Ecology;
Ecology Practical Skills; Physiology Ecology
and Behaviour of Marine Organisms;
Introduction to Behavioural Ecology.
Applications
and admissions
We welcome applications from all over the
world, and its our aim to make the process
of applying as smooth as possible.
The information that follows is a brief guide
to applying for programmes of study at the
University of Liverpool. For full details of our
applications and admissions policy, please
visit our website at www.liverpool.ac.uk/
ug-admissions
MAKING AN APPLICATION
THROUGH UCAS
Applications for full-time undergraduate
study are made via UCAS, the Universities and
Colleges Admissions Service, using UCASs
online application system at www.ucas.com
The University of Liverpool institution code
is LVRPL L41.
WHEN TO MAKE YOUR APPLICATION

For up-to-date information please visit
www.ucas.com
For information on English language entry

requirements, visit www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/
international/countries/english-language or
contact Student Recruitment and Admissions
T: +44 (0)151 794 6730 E: irro@liverpool.ac.uk
ask.liv.ac.uk/help/undergraduate
MATURE STUDENTS
We welcome applications from candidates
who are not applying directly from school
or college, or who have non-standard
qualifications, or who wish work or life
experience to be taken into account as part
of their application. For further information
see www.liverpool.ac.uk/maturestudents
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

We give equal consideration to all applicants
and welcome applications from students
with disabilities. Please contact the Disability
Support Team on T: +44 (0)151 794 5117
to discuss your support needs before you
submit your UCAS application.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
For full details on the programmes we offer
and detailed entrance requirements, visit
www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate
60/61
We accept a wide range of other

qualifications, eg EU and international
qualifications. For more detailed information
on entrance requirements, see our online
prospectus www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/
DIVERSITY AND EQUALITY

The University of Liverpool attaches the
greatest importance to its policies and activities
to promote diversity and equality of opportunity.
Full details on these policies can be found online
at www.liverpool.ac.uk/diversity-and-equality
DISCLAIMER
Every effort has been made to ensure that
information contained within this brochure
is accurate at the time of going to press.
However, the matters covered are subject
to change from time to time, both before
and after a candidates admission.

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EARTH, OCEAN AND ECOLOGICAL SCIENCES

EB/RH JUN 2013

The Department forms one half of the School of

ECOLOGY AND MARINE BIOLOGY

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Our work often crosses the boundaries

Research excellence in a friendly

Accredited programmes. Where appropriate,

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Extensive fieldwork opportunities.

A vibrant undergraduate society. The

Geophysics is the study of the Earth, using remote methods such

One current area of research, undertaken by

Professor Faulkner and Dr Mariani are currently

The project involves drilling down to a depth

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

See what Jamie had to say about studying

There has never been a better time to study the Earth

The majority of our recent graduates have

after graduation. We have close links with

WORK EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES

I am currently a Senior Environmental Consultant

Companies employing our graduates in

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Prog amme details

Geology BSc (Hons)

Geology MESci (Hons)

Geology (North America) MESci (Hons)

Geology and Physical Geography BSc (Hons)

Geology and Physical Geography MESci (Hons)

Geophysics (Geology) BSc (Hons)

Geology and Geophysics MESci (Hons)

Geophysics (North America) MESci (Hons)

Geophysics (Physics) BSc (Hons)

Programme with a Foundation Year

Programme offered by the School of Environmental Sciences

This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree.

HOW YOU LEARN

Teaching takes place through lectures,

In Earth Sciences, we offer a range of three-year

Students typically receive approximately

HOW YOU ARE ASSESSED

Geology: Geology is the science of the

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Students study a core programme with field

Geology BSc (Hons)

Years One and Two aim to provide a

Students take the following compulsory

Students take the following compulsory

Two days in North Wales (autumn)

For current entrance requirements and full

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Students take the following compulsory

Geology MESci (Hons)

The first two years of this four-year

This subject can be taken as part

Years One and Two follow the same

Years One and Two

You will undertake a geological mapping

For current entrance requirements and full

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences >

Geology (North America)