Cardiff School of

Earth and Ocean Sciences

Undergraduate Degree Programmes

www.cardiff.ac.uk/earth

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 Why Study
Earth Sciences?
You have opened the first page of our
brochure so you’re obviously curious about
the possibility of studying Earth Sciences
at University. You’ve probably not studied
Earth Sciences much in school although
you may have touched on some aspects
in Geography. Earth Sciences is, like
medicine, very broad-based and includes
some of the most exciting topics and
relevant issues in science and society
today.
What has interested you about
Earth Sciences?
Is it the destructive forces of volcanoes,
earthquakes or tsunamis? Or questions
like why were the dinosaurs wiped out?
Was it really due to a meteorite impact,
or were massive volcanic eruptions the
cause?
You may wonder why our climate is
changing and sea level rising. Will global
warming result in a situation where the
UK could become like the Mediterranean?
Or perhaps this is merely a climatic blip,
and we are going to undergo another Ice
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 2
Age, where much of the UK will be buried
beneath a kilometre of ice.
You may be interested in how gold and
diamonds form, or how we use modern
technology to explore for the natural
resources like oil and gas deep in the
Earth’s crust.
Perhaps you are interested in
environmental issues like the pollution
of drinking water, waste management
or ecology and conservation. You may
like the idea of preserving our green
field areas by cleaning up old industrially
contaminated sites for re-use for housing
or recreation.
You may be interested in the marine
environment. The name of the planet
is actually a misnomer, it shouldn’t be
called Earth as it’s two thirds covered
by water. The deep oceans are less well
mapped than Venus and still constitute
a major exploration frontier. A thorough
understanding of Marine Science is vitally
important, as the oceans play a crucial
role in controlling our climate. Marine
scientists look back into the past history
of our planet by investigating ancient
6/8/08 19:39:50
 

ocean sediments: this is how we get most We believe you should study what interests
of our information about how the Earth and excites you. If you do this you’ll get
system has behaved in the past. a better degree and a good job. As you
read this brochure you may well not know
Why is the Earth like it is? The planet
enough about Earth Sciences to make
could have evolved like Venus – with
a decision about which degree subject
an inferno-like surface – or Mars, as an
to choose. At Cardiff we realise this. Our
arid, cold, virtual vacuum for its surface
largely common first year is geared to
environment. Can we understand more
teaching you as much as possible about
about the Earth by studying what went
the various aspects of Earth Science. Only
wrong on other planets in the solar
later in Year 1 do you choose which actual
system? How did life start? Did life
degree course to follow for the next two or
actually start on Earth, or did life arrive
three years.
here from other planets?
There are many Earth Science courses to
All this, and more, constitutes Earth
choose from in the UK. Some Universities
Science. At Cardiff, we are currently
provide programmes that are a bit
offering 19 different undergraduate degree
different, such as our Marine Geography
programmes in the Earth Sciences,
and Exploration and Resource Geology
including our new four-year MESci degree
degrees. Your choice of University in the
with a year of international study. We
UK will mainly depend on how much you
can cover more of the subject than most
feel that the local environment suits you.
universities because we are one of the
Come and visit us on an open day and see
largest Earth Science Schools’ in the
for yourself what Cardiff can offer you as a
UK and we have world experts in many
place to live and study in. You’ll find that
disciplines. This means as a student you
the more you learn about Earth Sciences
have a great opportunity to be taught by
at Cardiff, the more exciting it becomes.
internationally renowned experts while
following your own particular interests and
ambitions.

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Students from the School of Earth and Ocean Sciences celebrating their graduation
Contents
The City 4
The University 6
Accommodation 8
Student Life 9
Degree Courses 10
The First Year 12
Master in Earth Science 13
MESci (International) 16
Marine Geoscience 17
Important information. Please read carefully.
The University offers the information contained in this brochure as
a guide only. It does not constitute a contract and is not binding on
prospective students, students or the University. While the University
makes every effort to check the accuracy of the factual content at the
time of publication, some changes will inevitably occur in the interval
between publication and the academic year to which the brochure
relates (Entry 2009). For example, courses, entry requirements and
typical offers may have changed in line with market and student
demand, and research development. Applicants should not therefore
rely solely on this brochure and should visit the University website
(www.cardiff.ac.uk) for up-to-date information concerning course
content, accreditation, and entry requirements for the relevant
academic year when considering applying to the University.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee arrangements in Wales are different to those in England
and elsewhere in the UK. If you are thinking of applying to Cardiff
University you should carefully read the fee information which relates to
your situation. More detailed information is available on our website at
www.cardiff.ac.uk/fees
I currently live in Wales
You will be charged an annual fee of approximately £3,225pa.
However, you will be eligible for an annual £1,940 fee grant from
the Welsh Assembly. This means that you will pay an annual fee of
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 2
Geology 19
Exploration and Resource Geology 21
Environmental Geoscience 23
Marine Geography 25
Earth Sciences with a Preliminary Year 28
Career Prospects 28
Postgraduate Masters Courses 29
Research in Cardiff 30
Admissions 32
approximately £1,285 although this will not be charged “up front.”
Instead payment will be deferred until after you have graduated and
are earning more than £15,000pa.
I currently live in England (or elsewhere in the UK)
You will be charged an annual fee of approximately £3,225pa.
However, this fee will be deferred until after you have graduated and
are earning more than £15,000pa.
I am living outside the UK but inside the EU
You will be charged an annual fee of approximately £3,225pa.
However, you will be eligible for an annual £1,940 fee grant from
the Welsh Assembly. This means that you will pay an annual fee of
approximately £1,285 although this will not be charged “up front.”
Instead payment will be deferred until after you have graduated and
are earning more than £15,000pa.
I am living outside the EU
Details are available on the following website:
www.cardiff.ac.uk/international
Scholarships and Bursaries
For more information please visit the following website:
www.cardiff.ac.uk/scholarships
6000EARTH0808
6/8/08 19:40:26
 

The University is located in and around the magnificent civic centre

Welcome
Studying for an initial degree is a major As you will see as you delve further into this
investment for your future and choosing your brochure, Earth Sciences is very relevant to many
university and degree programme is one of life’s current global issues facing humankind, ranging
all-important decisions. I hope that you will find from climate change to exploration for natural
this brochure helpful and informative as you resources. If you would like to receive further
consider the options open to you as a potential information about the School, or would like to
university student. It contains information about arrange a visit, please do not hesitate to get in
the city of Cardiff and the University, the musical contact. Our telephone and fax numbers and our
and cultural life of the area, the practical and email addresses are given inside the back page.
study facilities in the School of Earth and Ocean
Sciences, the range of its degree programmes
and component modules. Professor Dianne Edwards CBE FRS
Head of Cardiff School of Earth and
The School has an international reputation Ocean Sciences
for all its activities and our staff have a wide
range of expertise that is reflected in our
broad curriculum. It offers a rich and rewarding
student experience and provides a friendly and
stimulating environment in which you should be
able to fulfil your full potential in your studies.
Teaching at all levels is informed by research that
has been shown to lie at the very cutting edge of
the discipline.

Outdoor teaching at Lulworth Cove, Dorset

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main photo
Cardiff Castle and
the Millennium Stadium

below left
The New Theatre

below middle
Cardiff Bay

below right
Cardiff Civic Centre

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Cardiff is one of Europe’s youngest capital
cities. Compact, green, friendly and full of life,
it provides a first-class environment in which to
live and study.
As the capital city of Wales, Cardiff has an
impressive range of leisure, sporting and
cultural amenities. Many of the facilities are
of international standard. The city boasts
world-class concert venues in the International
Arena and St David’s Hall, and is the focus of
national and international sports events at the
Millennium Stadium.
Culturally, Cardiff is well catered for, with the
National Museum and Gallery of Wales, several
theatres and the historic Cardiff Castle. The city
also boasts a vibrant shopping centre, numerous
cinemas and restaurants, great pubs and music
venues. The development of Cardiff Bay is a
major attraction and is home to the Welsh
Assembly and the Wales Millennium Centre.
Cardiff - the City
Don’t just take our word for it . . .
“Cardiff is the epitome of cool, pulsing
with a creative energy and relaxed
atmosphere that complements its
youthful heritage.”
The Lonely Planet
“Cardiff is the up-and-coming
cosmopolitan British city, a place jam-
packed per square yard with some of
the best drinking, dancing and shopping
outside London.”
Virgin Alternative Guide to British
Universities
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Cardiff is a compact city with large areas of parkland and
good local transport. Furthermore, unlike many other
cities, it offers easy access to the countryside, coast
and mountains. The Brecon Beacons National Park is
only a 30-minute drive from Cardiff and the Glamorgan
Heritage Coast is within easy reach. The city is also easily
reached by road or rail from other parts of Britain.
Cardiff International Airport, just outside
the city, has frequent connections to
Europe and destinations outside
the EU.
Cardiff combines the practical
advantages of a small, friendly, city
with the cultural and recreational
amenities of a successful and
modern capital. Such is
the quality of the ‘Cardiff
experience’ that in
a recent survey a
large majority of
the students said
they would like to
stay and live in
the city after
graduation.
“Cardiff is popular with students offering More online at:
all the attractions of a large conurbation www.visitcardiff.com
without such high prices as students www.cardiff.ac.uk
experience elsewhere.” www.cardiff.co.uk
The Times Good University Guide
Come and see for yourself . . .
Cardiff benefits from excellent road and rail
links with Britain’s other major towns and
cities. London, for example, is two hours by
train, and the M4 links both the west and
south of England, as well as west Wales.
Travel to the Midlands and the North is
equally convenient. The journey by road from
Birmingham, for example, takes only two hours.
The main coach and railway stations are both
centrally placed and Cardiff also benefits from
an international airport.
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Students have access to the latest
information technology
Main picture:
The University’s Main Building,
home to Cardiff School of
Earth and Ocean Sciences
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 6
Cardiff - the University
Cardiff University is recognised in independent
government assessments as one of Britain’s
leading teaching and research universities.
Founded by Royal Charter in 1883, the
University today combines impressive modern
facilities and a dynamic approach to teaching
and research with its proud heritage of service
and achievement. The University’s breadth
of expertise encompasses: the humanities;
the natural, physical, health, life and social
sciences; engineering and technology.
The University has an outstanding location
amidst the parks, Portland stone buildings and
tree-lined avenues that form the city’s elegant
civic centre. Unusually for a civic university,
most of the University’s student residential
accommodation is within easy walking distance
of lecture theatres, libraries and the Students’
Union, saving you time and money. More than
£200million has been invested in the University
estate in recent years to provide new and
refurbished facilities of the highest quality.
Cardiff is a member of the Russell Group of
Britain’s leading research universities and was
ranked 7th out of more than 100 UK universities
in the latest independent assessment of
research. This creates a stimulating environment
for teaching, ensuring that students are exposed
to the very latest thinking and that the most
modern technology and equipment is available.
Teaching at Cardiff has been independently
assessed as being of excellent standard.
The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher
Education, which undertakes assessments with
all UK universities, confirmed that prospective
students, parents, teachers and graduate
employers can have every confidence in the
quality and standards of Cardiff’s awards.
6/8/08 19:43:59
 

Feedback in the recent National Student “With a strong academic reputation and
Surveys has also been very positive. excellent facilities, Cardiff continues to go
from strength to strength.”
The student population is drawn from a variety
The Guardian University Guide
of backgrounds, with students attracted
from throughout Wales, the rest of the UK
and world-wide. The University currently
“Cardiff is surely one of the best deals
has around 25,000 undergraduate and
going: tip-top academically, still not the
postgraduate students and there is an almost
hardest to get into and a fantastic extra-
equal balance between male and female
curricular scene. There’s no excuse to leave
students. International students comprise
with just a degree listed on your CV.”
some 17% of the total student population.
Government performance indicators show that The Virgin 2007 Alternative Guide to
students at Cardiff are more likely to succeed British Universities
in their studies than students at most other
UK universities. Currently, 95% of students
successfully complete or transfer, better than
“Cardiff has established itself as the front
many similar universities and better than the
runner in Welsh higher education… it is
UK national average.
a match for most rivals in teaching and
research and the overall performance is
amongst the best in Britain.”
The Times Good University Guide

More online at:

www.cardiff.ac.uk

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 8

Accommodation
Map key Cardiff has always attached great importance As well as managing University property, the
to the provision of student accommodation and Residences Office maintains close links with
Cardiff School of
has invested heavily in recent years to provide the private sector and helps students who are
Earth and Ocean
Sciences some of the highest quality residences in the UK looking to rent or share houses or flats.
university sector. Most of the accommodation
University is located close to the academic buildings. All
Buildings first year undergraduates (who apply during the More online at:
normal admissions cycle) are guaranteed a place www.cardiff.ac.uk/resid
Accommodation in university accommodation. There is a choice of
Students Union catered or self-catered residences.
“Guaranteed accommodation in halls and
New residences have been built in recent houses for first years. Very high quality and
years and many of the older ones have been relatively cheap.”
refurbished to a high standard. The majority of
Above the 5,100 study/bedrooms have individual shower Equitable Student Book
University residences close to
and toilet facilities and all halls of residence have
the School
computer network connection points.

Accepting an offer of a place at Cardiff University

on a firm basis and completing your online
Accommodation Request Form promptly increases
the chances of your accommodation preferences
being met. Full details of all University-owned
accommodation are provided in the University
Residences Guide.

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The Students’ Union has excellent

facilities

Student life “Cardiff Students’

Union is the biggest
and best equipped in
Britain.”
As a fast developing capital city, Cardiff is a Jobshop
great place to be a student. It’s large enough The Independent
The Unistaff Jobshop is a student employment
to offer you an exciting variety of activities and
service that provides casual, clerical and
entertainment, but small enough for you to feel
catering jobs around the University to hundreds
comfortable in.
of students for up to 15 hours a week.

The Students’ Union “Cardiff Students’ Union is the biggest and

Cardiff Students’ Union is one of the biggest, best equipped in Britain.”
best and most active in Britain. Solus, the
Great Hall and the Taf are among the Union’s The Independent
major attractions. Solus is the students’ own
high quality nightclub and the second largest in
South Wales. The Great Hall is a 1500-capacity “Cardiff Students’ Union is independently Solus, disco six nights a week
venue for major concerts and the Taf Bar is recognised as the biggest and best
the Union’s very own ‘local’. Other facilities in Britain.” Exercising in the Fitness &
include CF10 café, a general shop and off Racquets Centre – Park Place
licence, University bookshop, computer shop, Equitable Student Book
a games room and video arcade, five full size
snooker tables and twelve pool tables, satellite
TV, banking and insurance services. The Union “The Students Union provides an
also has its own letting agency and Student excellent range of facilities, clubs and
Advice centre and is home to Xpress Radio (the societies.”
students’ own radio station), an award winning
student newspaper, and more than 150 The Times Good University Guide
cultural, political, religious, social and sporting
societies.
More online at:
www.cardiffstudents.com

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 10

Degree Courses in the School of

Earth and Ocean Sciences
Earth Science education at Cardiff
provides a research-led, holistic view
of the Earth in which the oceans,
atmosphere, biosphere and lithosphere
are studied in depth as constituent
components of the Earth system. All
the degree courses begin with a largely
common first year which provides a
strong foundation in Earth Sciences.
Although students will be registered
for a particular degree in Year 1, our
first year allows you to sample the
broad aspects of Earth Science before
Studying gold exploration drill cores as part of an Exploration
and Resource Geology summer placement in Tanzania
making your final choice. Students
who wish to study the four year MESci
degrees can transfer at the end of Year
2, although it is best to register for
four year degrees in Year 1 as there
are specialist modules in research
training during Year 1 and 2. Students
who graduate on any three year BSc
course can apply to stay on in Year 4
to study a one year vocational MSc in
either Applied Environmental Geology
or Environmental Hydrogeology. In
total, the School of Earth and Ocean
Sciences offers 19 undergraduate
degree programmes:

F640 A four year degree for students who wish to pursue a professional research career in Earth
MESci Earth Sciences Sciences. In Year 4 you will undertake an independent research project that allows you to focus
on your subject of interest in Earth Sciences. There is also an option to spend Year 3 of your
F646
MESci Earth Sciences degree at a university in North America, Australia or New Zealand. Module credits obtained
(International) during this year count towards your degree.

F841 A three year degree for students interested in study of the physical, hydrographical and
BSc Marine Geography managerial issues relating to the ocean and its coastlines.

F842 A four year degree for students interested in the study of the physical, hydrographical and
BSc Marine Geography managerial issues relating to the ocean and its coastline, with a year out working in a marine
(placement year) related industry.

F645 A four year degree for students who wish to pursue a professional career in applied or ‘global’
MESci Environmental geoenvironmental issues such as climate change, water resources and pollution. In Year 4 you
Geoscience will undertake an independent research project that focuses on your subject of interest. There
F647 is also an option to spend Year 3 of your degree at a university in North America, Australia or
MESci Environmental
Geoscience (International) New Zealand. Module credits obtained during this year count towards your degree.

F642 A three year degree for students interested in applied geo-environmental or ‘global’ geo-
BSc Environmental environmental issues with subjects like geo-hazards, pollution and engineering geology, ecology,
Geoscience climate change and sea level rise.

F644 A four year degree for students interested in applied geo-environmental or ‘global’ geo-
BSc Environmental environmental issues with subjects like geo-hazards, pollution and engineering geology, ecology,
Geoscience climate change and sea level rise, with a year out working in the geo-environmental industry.
(placement year)

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 11

Fieldwork plays an important role in all our degree programmes

F601 A four year degree for students who wish to pursue a research career in Geology. In Year 4
MESci Geology you will undertake an independent research project that allows you to focus on your specialist
F602 geological subject of interest. There is also an option to spend the third year of your degree at
MESci Geology a university in North America, Australia or New Zealand. Module credits obtained during this
(International) year count towards your degree.

F600 A three year degree for students interested in all aspects of Geology and Earth Evolution. This
BSc Geology degree is suited to students interested in all aspects of practical field related observations
and map making. In Year 3, students can specialize in areas of sedimentology, paleontology,
structural or igneous geology.

F623 A four year degree for students who wish to pursue a research career in hydrocarbons, ore and
MESci Exploration industrial minerals and energy. In Year 4, you will undertake an independent research project
and Resource Geology that focuses on your specialist subject of interest. There is also an option to spend Year 3 of
F624 your degree at a university in North America or Australasia. Module credits obtained during this
MESci Exploration & year count towards your degree.
Resource Geology
(International)

F621 A three year degree for students interested in all aspects of natural resources (hydrocarbons,
BSc Exploration & ore and industrial minerals and energy) and their exploration, extraction and management.
Resource Geology This degree is also suited to students interested in aspects of applied geology and information
technology.

F622 A four year degree for students interested in natural resources (hydrocarbons, ore and
BSc Exploration & industrial minerals and energy) and their exploration with a year out in industry working with
Resource Geology an exploration company. This degree is also suited to students interested in aspects of applied
(placement year) geology and information technology.

F631 A four year degree for students who wish to pursue a research career in aspects of shallow,
MESci Marine Geoscience near-shore coastal processes or deep marine environments. In Year 4 students complete a
major research project on a marine topic of interest. There is also an option to spend Year 3 of
F632 your degree at a university in North America, Australia or New Zealand. Module credits obtained
MESci Marine Geoscience during this year count towards your degree.
(International)

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 12
The First Year
The first year is designed to give you a sound
foundation in Earth Sciences upon which the
specialised studies build in subsequent years.
The first year provides an introduction to the
study of Earth as a total system - background
scientific skills taught through the study of
Field teaching on the year 1 residential trip to west Wales
First year students undertaking an environmental survey in Cardiff Bay on the School research vessel,
Guiding Light
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 12
Earth - plus general skills of observation,
numeracy, presentation and communication,
which will be of value throughout your studies
and future careers. For example, our module
Geoinformatics provides an introduction to
the use of the Cardiff University computing
network and its associated software,
including the basic concepts of a computing
network, files and directories, and the use
of spreadsheet, database, drawing, GIS and
e-mail packages. Fieldwork in the first year
involves an introductory set of field trips during
your first week designed to give you a flavour
of the first year course content and to act as
an icebreaker. Several day or half-day trips are
associated with individual modules and
provide essential initial field training. You
will also have the opportunity to undertake
shipborne studies, as well as taking part in a
residential field excursion in the week prior to
the Easter Vacation.
All the first year modules include lectures
and a variety of laboratory work. Several
include individual study projects. Most of
the modules extend over the two semesters
and are examined at the end of the second
semester. Most modules are assessed by a
combination of examination and marking of
other work. The nature and weighting of other
assessed work varies with the requirements
of different modules. You will need to achieve
a satisfactory standard in at least 100 from
the 120 credits studied before progressing to
the second year. We believe it is important
to take account of the varying skills and
qualifications of the students arriving in
the School, so the broad-based first year
complements your own talents and interests.
Your personal tutor, allocated to you in the first
week of your course, will advise you of the best
way to organise your studies to utilise your
background achievements.
Because most of the first year is common to
our undergraduate degree programmes, you
are able to transfer between degree courses
following satisfactory completion of Year 1.
However, since the School needs to maintain
a balance between programmes, transfers
may in some cases have to be determined by
results at the end of Year 1.
6/8/08 19:46:53
 13

Master in Earth Science (MESci)

Research-informed degrees in:
Earth Sciences (UCAS Code: F640)
Geology (UCAS Code: F601)
Exploration and Resource Geology (UCAS Code: F623)
Environmental Geoscience (UCAS Code: F645)
Marine Geoscience (UCAS Code: F631)

The Cardiff MESci programme is a four year

undergraduate degree aimed at training
students for a research career. Students with
a Cardiff MESci are qualified to enter directly
into PhD programmes, and the advanced
fourth year courses and research skills also
provide an enhanced basis for entering into
professional careers in Earth Sciences. The
Cardiff MESci programme provides you with
considerable flexibility in your choice of
modules and programmes. In each of your
four years you will undertake research training
in which you choose topics that match your
interests. In the final year you will complete
a research dissertation and attend a series of
modules, providing the skills and knowledge
necessary to underpin your dissertation work.
The nature of research means that you will be
involved in small group teaching and will have
the opportunity to work within the School’s
internationally-recognised research groups.
The MESci degrees at Cardiff are comparable
to similar courses in Europe and North
America. There is demand in industry,
government and academia for a higher
level of research training than a three year
undergraduate BSc course. For the individual
student, undergraduate Masters programmes
provide: Discovering Earth History - De La Beche unconformity Somerset

•a
 wider range of options for future career
paths

•o
 pportunities to undertake research into
topics which interest you

•a
 greater degree of choice in learning
outcomes

•m
 ore extensive opportunities for small group
and individual tuition

•a
 higher level of university education
comparable with international first degree
qualifications.

First year MESci students on a residential trip to the Isle of Arran, Scotland

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 14

MESci Course Structure In Year 2, you will take a suite of modules

appropriate to your MESci degree programme
The first year programme is common for all
which will enhance the basic building blocks of
MESci students, with small group teaching
knowledge necessary to undertake research.
provided in research tutorial groups of up to
In addition, you will take the MESci Field
six students, and with a dedicated MESci
Methods and Research Tutorial module and will
residential field course at Easter. The common
produce a research poster on a field-related
first year programme is designed to give you
subject of your choice. Year 2 contributes 15%
a broad view of earth and ocean sciences,
to your total degree assessment.
with the MESci research tutorial enabling you
to begin exploring your long-term research
In your third year, you will again select from a
interests.
suite of modules appropriate to your degree
programme. If you are following the MESci
in Earth Sciences you can choose any Year
3 module with in the School as long as it
is possible on the timetable. You will take
a research module during which you will
conduct research on a topic of your choice
and write it up as a scientific research paper.
Year 3 contributes 35% to your total degree
assessment.

The final year is centred on a research

dissertation in a subject of your choice,
depending on your degree programme. You will
work with a research supervisor and interact
with a research group in the School. Since
the School is large you have a wide choice
of dissertation topic. Year 4 assessment
contributes 50% to your final degree and your
research dissertation is 25% of your total
degree result. You will also chose options from
Year 4 modules which focus on topics at the
cutting edge of research.

Inter-programme Transfer
Transfer into and out of the MESci programmes
is possible but it is best to enrol on the MESci
in Year 1 as there are dedicated research
training modules in Year 1 and 2. Transfer
from a BSc to an MESci is possible at the end
of Years 1 or 2 (transfer at the end of Year 2
requires an average mark of 60%). Transfer
from MESci to the equivalent BSc can also
take place at the end of Years 1 or 2.
MESci Research project analysing water quality

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 15

MESci Programmes
Research has no subject boundaries, and so
in Cardiff we provide you with the broadest
opportunity to follow and develop your own
interests.

Problems of climate change and the effect

of human activities on the environment
are increasingly important topics in
international research. The MESci in
Environmental Geoscience provides a solid
base for investigation of climatic change
and anthropogenic effects on the planetary
environment, including pollution and land
contamination. The interdisciplinary MESci in
Marine Geoscience focuses on near shore,
coastal processes and deep sea research
into the origin of the oceanic crust and its
sediments and how a detailed record of
climate change can be elucidated from the
marine geological record.

The evolution of the Earth and the life that

it supports underpins our understanding of
our own planet and other planets in the solar
Research training fieldcourse, Cyprus
system. The MESci in Geology provides the
basis for researching into the evolution of
our planet. Sustainability of natural resources
requires that richer, more easily extractable
resources need to be discovered and methods
of extraction need to be both energy efficient
and environmentally friendly. The MESci in
Exploration and Resource Geology addresses
both of these aspects on a global scale.

Each of these MESci degrees also offers

the possibly to spend Year 3 studying at
a university in North America. The marks
from this year of study will count towards
your degree. More details of this exciting
opportunity can be found in the MESci
(International) section of this brochure
(overleaf).

Research projects using our modern analytical facilities

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 16
MESci (International)
Research-informed degrees in:
Earth Sciences (UCAS Code: F646)
Geology (UCAS Code: F602)
Exploration and Resource Geology (UCAS Code: F624)
Environmental Geoscience (UCAS Code: F647)
Marine Geoscience (UCAS Code: F632)
with a year spent studying at an overseas university
The University of Miami, Florida is
a partner institution in the MESci
(International) programme and is
rated as one of the top Earth and
Ocean Science institutions in the
USA. Cardiff students will have the
opportunity to study sub-tropical
environments on their doorstep and
take part in field trips to volcanoes in
Ecuador (right) and carbonates and
hydrocarbons in Belize.

The Cardiff MESci (International) programmes
are aimed at providing the opportunity for
exceptional students to study at a prestigious
overseas university for part of their Cardiff
degree. The MESci (International) programme
has the same structure and aims as the
well-established Cardiff 4 year undergraduate
MESci degree programmes. It is research-
led and provides top students with enhanced
opportunities for specialisation, subject choice
and advanced study. The difference is that the
credits and grades for Year 3 of your degree
assessment are acquired at an overseas
institution.
The year abroad allows you to broaden your
horizons, both academically and culturally.
You will research for a Senior Thesis during
your year overseas, usually on a one-to-one
basis with an international research expert in
the host institution. In addition, you will be
able to enroll in courses overseas that are
not available at Cardiff, or take other courses
that are not possible to timetable here. You
will acquire a wide range of transferable skills
and the additional experience to improve your
employability and prospects of postgraduate
studies.
Financially, these programmes are very
attractive since you pay no fees at the
international university but merely continue to
pay fees to Cardiff University. This means that
successful applicants have the opportunity,
for example, to attend world-class, private
universities in the USA at Cardiff fee levels.
These institutions routinely provide intensive,
small group teaching by international leaders
in an environment where individual student
welfare is paramount. Presently there is an
agreement with the University of Miami and its
prestigious Rosensteil School of Marine and
Atmospheric Sciences. Further opportunities
are planned with other leading institutions in
USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
The International programmes include
all MESci subject areas including Earth
Sciences, Geology, Environmental Geoscience,
Exploration & Resource Geology, and Marine
Geoscience. The intake grades for these
international programmes are one A2 level (or
equivalent) grade higher than the conventional
Cardiff MESci, primarily because there is strong
competition for the limited places.
Is the MESci (International) programme the
right one for you? You need to:
•H
 ave a sense of adventure and want to
experience new places and different cultures.
•B
 e independent, both socially and
academically.
•H
 ave demonstrated the proven ability to
study at the very highest level so that you
can maintain this in a different way of
student life.
•W
 ant to widen your options for future career
paths.

Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 16 6/8/08 19:48:30

 MESci Marine Geoscience (UCAS Code: F631 ) 17

Marine Geosciences is a truly interdisciplinary staff as a supervisor.

aspect of the wider Earth Sciences, embracing This will link you to
both near shore, coastal processes and deep an active research
sea studies of the oceanic crust and how group and enable
climate change can be unravelled from the you to concentrate
reading of the marine sedimentary record. on one aspect of
Both these areas, coastal and deep sea, are marine geoscience.
available for study in the Cardiff programme More than a dozen
which brings together expertise from staff staff members have
researching into the geology and tectonics of undertaken extensive
ocean basins, ocean–atmosphere interactions, deep sea research
the marine sedimentary record, continental cruises and other staff
margin processes, chemistry and microbiology are actively involved
of deep sea sediments, coastal hydrography in offshore or coastal
and mapping of the seabed. research programmes.

The MESci in Marine Geoscience follows the Graduates will acquire

other MESci programmes in having a broad- a wide range of
based first year where all aspects of Earth transferable skills
Sciences are introduced as well as starting since working and
to learn how to carry out research. In Year undertaking science
2 students opt for either the nearshore or at sea involves a
deep sea specialisation with optional modules significant amount of
to broaden their knowledge base. In Year 3 team work and project
further specialisation is possible taking your planning. Graduates
chosen subject area to research level, and as from this degree A Thornback Ray caught as part of a second year trawling field work
with the other MESci programmes it is possible programme will be survey in the Severn Estuary

to spend your third year at an overseas highly attractive to

university. potential employers
or research
In Year 4 you also undertake a dissertation
establishments.
with one of the many marine specialists on the

Year 3 students on the Marine Geoscience field trip to Cyprus

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 18

Learning to use marine sonar systems in Cardiff Bay

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 19

BSc Geology (UCAS Code: F600)

MESci Geology (UCAS Code: F601)
Our BSc in Geology provides you with a
broad view of the physical, geochemical
and biological processes that formed planet
Earth, its oceans, atmosphere, lithosphere
and biosphere. You will learn how to read
the rocks, assess the processes involved in
their formation, be able to reconstruct past
environments and interpret how life evolved.

A key component of this course is fieldwork.

You will travel to a number of classic localities:
current field excursions run to areas both in
the UK and abroad (Spain and Cyprus). On
these excursions you will learn how to record
observations, to analyse and interpret a wide
range of rocks and structures in the field, and
be trained in making a geological map. Our
field courses are specifically designed to focus
on key themes, such as the origins of oceanic
crust, the development of sedimentary basins
and their oil and gas potential, and the growth
and collapse of mountain belts.

Ammonite hunting in Lyme Regis

In the summer of your

second year, you will face
the exciting challenge
of spending five weeks
working independently on a
geological mapping project
in an area of your own
choice. The most popular
mapping areas are typically
in Wales, Scotland, Ireland,
southern France, Spain and
Portugal, but opportunities
exist for travel further afield.
In your third year, you will
analyse and interpret your
field map data and write
a detailed report on your
summer mapping project.

Structural geology field teaching in Spain

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 20

In your third year there are several core will benefit from teaching at the forefront of
synoptic modules, but you will also have geological research. One of the highlights of
a choice of optional modules in specialist the third year is a residential field excursion to
and more applied subjects. Some of those Cyprus to study an uplifted section of oceanic
specialist modules involve field excursions. crust and its associated sediments.
You will also have the option to complete
The four year MESci Geology degree is for
a research level project in a topic of your
students interested in professional research
choice. The lecturers on the geology course
careers. It provides research training in
are all specialists who publish research papers
specialist aspects of Geology (see MESci
in international journals and books, so you
section for more details).
Year 2 geological mapping training
in Spain

Sedimentology fieldcourse, Dorset coast

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BSc Exploration and Resource Geology
(UCAS Code: F621)
BSc Exploration and Resource Geology
(placement year) (UCAS Code: F622)
MESci Exploration and Resource Geology
(UCAS Code: F623)
This is a very opportune time to study for a
degree in exploration geology as young skilled
people are in great demand to assist in the
exploration for natural resources to feed
the growing world demand for minerals, oil,
gas and industrial minerals. An exploration
geologist requires a broad range of skills
including: an aptitude for fieldwork, good ICT
skills and the ability to make key decisions
from limited information. Our vocationally
orientated courses will prepare you for a
potentially exciting professional career as a
geologist working in the global hydrocarbon,
metaliferous or bulk mineral industries.
The three year BSc degree focuses on applied
geology, with the exploration, evaluation and
extraction of the Earth’s natural resources.
The aim is to provide an understanding of the
geological, physical and chemical processes
active within the Earth that lead to the
formation of a natural resource. The course
provides training in the specialist fieldwork and
IT skills required by the modern professional
exploration geologist using whenever possible
field-based project work. You will attend
field training courses that include practical
Year 3 Exploration and Resource Geology students studying
copper deposits on their Cyprus fieldtrip
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 21
21
exercises in surveying, geological, geochemical,
geophysical mapping techniques and safety.
This training programme leads on to residential
field courses in the UK and abroad, for
example to Spain, and includes a team-
building ice-breaker visit to the Dolaucothi
gold mine in mid-Wales. During field work you
learn to draw detailed geological maps using
geological and geophysical techniques.
During the summer vacation before the third
year, you undertake a six-week industrial
placement or research-based practical
field mapping project module under School
supervision, usually in areas of active resource
exploration. Alternatively you may pursue a
full year out on an industrial placement. Our
extensive network of contacts in the industry
allows us to offer placements that take you
all over the world working in multinational
exploration or junior companies, providing
a real world experience of the industry. In
the autumn of your third year you will write
an assessed professional report on your
placement.
Gold separation from crushed ore – Gwynfynydd Mine, North
Wales
6/8/08 19:50:53
 22

In your third year, you will study further core

exploration modules on metals and oil together
with a range of optional modules involving
both applied aspects and specialist geological
topics. You will also have the opportunity to
visit an area of outstanding European geology
on residential fieldwork such as Cyprus.

Our graduates in exploration and resource

geology are commonly employed in field-based
exploration all over the World, or are found
analysing geological or geophysical data using
modern computer processing techniques in
global exploration companies. If you choose
to study the four-year MESci Exploration and
Resource Geology degree you will be exposed
to cutting edge research in exploration geology
with access to our in house state-of-the-art
mineral analytical equipment, 3D-seismic
processing and data visualization facilities. In
the fourth year you will undertake a research
project in your subject of interest in exploration
or resource geology (see MESci section for
more details).

Exploration Geology mapping training in west Wales

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 23
BSc Environmental Geoscience (UCAS Code: F642)
BSc Environmental Geoscience (placement year) (UCAS Code: F644)
MESci Environmental Geoscience (UCAS Code: F645)
South Wales is one of the best locations in the
UK to study environmental geoscience, as there
is a wealth of local natural and man-made
geoenvironmental subjects to study. These
natural locations range from the beautiful Welsh
coastline up to the scenic mountains of the
Brecon Beacons, including eroding sea cliffs,
sand dunes, wetlands, valley slopes and past
glacial erosion.

With a long and heavily polluting industrial

history, South Wales offers study sites that
include landfills, heavy metal contamination,
acid mine drainage, derelict land and mining
subsidence. The environmental geologist is
at the forefront of the scientific community’s
efforts to understand our complex and changing
surroundings. Furthermore, the challenging
and growing market of contaminated and
derelict land remediation is a growing source of
employment for geoscientists.

At the start of the course you will be taught
how our planet works, and how natural and
man-made events interact with, and change,
the environment. You will learn about global
systems like climate, how they work today,
how they have operated in the past, and are
expected to change in the future.
You will also learn about man-made issues like Pollution studies - acid mine water
from abandoned South Wales
pollution; its causes, assessment, monitoring
coalmines
and clean up. During this year you will be
taught how our dynamic planet is constantly
changing, and how we need to evolve from
activities that are depleting finite resources
towards policies of sustainable development.

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 24

In the second year you have a choice

of modules depending upon your own
geoenvironmental interests, aspirations, and
the subjects that most interested you in the
first year. You can choose a more ‘applied’
degree character that includes modules that
will facilitate your understanding of site-specific
geoenvironmental issues, such as contaminated
land, rock engineering and geotechnics.
Alternatively you may choose modules
addressing ‘global’ geoenvironmental issues,
providing a base for studies on subjects like
climate change and sea level rise, or you may
choose to specialise in biological interaction Environmental GPS mapping

with past and present environments. Regardless

of your choices, you will be taught the skills
required for planning, executing and reporting
on project work. This will include both field-
based and desk-based studies, and working
independently and as part of a team.
At this stage of your studies, project work is
a vital component of the course. The School
provides a wide range of different potential
projects from which you can choose a subject
that interests you. However, students are
actively encouraged to devise and design
their own projects. Students often choose or
devise projects that relate to geoenvironmental
issues close to their homes or that have
impacted on their lives in the past. Often
the projects are undertaken with help and
advice provided by bodies such as the Local
Authorities or Environmental Agency. Dedicated
environmental training takes place around
Environmental Geoscience students
on a field visit to Fforest Fawr
European Geopark, South Wales
Easter, and this addresses issues that have not
been covered in previous modules. This is also
an opportunity for you to start acquiring more
specific skills that will be required for your own
project work. For example, if you undertake a
project that requires you to do geochemical
analyses, you will be taught the protocols
required to work in a modern state-of-the-art
geochemical facility.
In the third year you will complete your project
work, presenting it in the form of a professional
report. There are a few compulsory ‘core’
modules, but the majority are optional,
allowing you to target those subjects in which
you are most interested. As with the previous
years, the third year consists of a mixture of
taught knowledge and skills. However, in this
final part of your degree, the emphasis is
much more on synthesis, tying together the
separate strands to give a more complete and
holistic understanding of the subject.
The evolution of our present environment
into the future is a key subject for global
enquiry and includes the problems of climate
change and the effect of human activities on
the environment. For students interested in
professional research careers in Environmental
Geoscience, the four year MESci in
Environmental Geoscience provides a basis for
investigation of these key areas (see MESci
section for more details).

Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 24 6/8/08 19:51:39

 25

BSc Marine Geography (UCAS Code: F841)

BSc Marine Geography (placement year) (UCAS Code: F842)
Marine Geography is the study of the ocean
and its coastlines – the geography of the sea.
Marine geographers augment traditional land
based geographic skills with new techniques
and approaches in order to understand the
intriguing geography that lies offshore and
beneath the ocean surface. Marine geography
offers an offshore perspective and the
opportunity to pursue studies beyond the low
water line.

The World Ocean, which covers 71% of the

planet, may be considered the last frontier on
Earth for the exploration and development of
resources to sustain humanity in the future.
Owing to its size, dynamic nature and diversity,
the geography of the ocean environment is
fundamental to our understanding of the natural
systems of the living Planet. Marine geographers
study the socio - economic relationships
between people and the physical characteristics
of the sea and coast at global and local scales.
This new approach to global marine issues is
characteristic of the Cardiff philosophy that
seeks to integrate and synthesise knowledge
about the world ocean and its coastlines to
help decision-making about the future. Issues
concerning fisheries, offshore oil and gas,
ports and shipping, conservation, minerals and
energy, strategic use and management, are all
Marine geography students
critical in terms of sustainable development and to ‘ground-truth’ the images of the seabed and
carrying out hydrographic survey
environmental protection. marine ecosystem by deploying underwater TV work mapping sediment in the
and various seabed-sampling devices including Severn Estuary
Cardiff is the birthplace of the discipline of
grabs, corers and trawls.
Marine Geography in UK. A major component
of the course in Cardiff is that of mapping the The course involves a multidisciplinary approach
marine environment in order to understand to the wide range of data relating to society and
its physical and biological characteristics. This the sea. Information acquired from a range of
involves using some of the most advanced equipment and techniques is compiled using
and exciting technology available. You will Geographical Information Systems (GIS). In
learn not only about traditional navigation and this, advanced computer technology is used to
hydrographic surveying techniques, but you superimpose layers of spatial data to reveal the
will also gain experience of modern remote geography of the system. The results of the GIS
sensing systems including satellite imagery, analyses are used not only to investigate the
side-scan and multi-beam SONARS for seabed geography of the coasts and oceans, but also
mapping, and 3D-seismic methods for probing to help decision-makers involved in Integrated
the ocean floor. You will also get the opportunity Coastal Zone Management.

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 26
Cardiff Marine Geographers and
students at Piraeus University, Greece
working together to survey Piraeus
harbour, Athens
For example, the School hosts the Severn
Estuary Partnership, which uses the results of
such techniques to coordinate and monitor
implementation of socio-economic and
environmental policies within the Estuary. It is
also the UK centre for the EU EcoPorts Project,
an international network for the exchange
of experience and methodologies aimed
specifically at sustainable development and
environmental protection of Europe’s seaports.
Studies involving the techniques of hydrographic
surveying, GIS, and environmental management
systems provide the opportunity to develop
transferable skills recognized by the applied
marine industries and a range of Governmental
and other organisations.
Cardiff has a long history of world-class research
and teaching in marine geography. Staff at
Cardiff produced the famous, groundbreaking,
Times Atlas of the Oceans and the current
Lloyds Atlas of the World Ports. Cardiff was the
first place outside North America to host the
Ocean Drilling Program (ODP), the largest global
marine research programme. This programme
deploys the deep ocean drill ship JOIDES
Resolution that samples the sub-surface of the
ocean floor. The results of the ODP programme
have resulted in some of the most exciting
scientific discoveries of recent years.
The School has 15 marine scientists on its
teaching staff, many with sea-going experience,
an international reputation for academic
research and well-established links with industry.
They specialise in a range of interests including
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 26
marine physical processes and ecosystems,
coastal and ocean management, hydrographic
surveying and seafloor mapping, global climate
change, law and political geography of the sea,
and environmental management of marine
operations. Scientists who study offshore
will teach you about current marine research
expeditions and the latest research results,
including information on climate change, marine
conservation and the use of ocean space.
A significant amount of practical and applied
experience is built into the degree programme
to assist you in developing transferable,
professional skills. Situated in an estuary with
a large tidal range and with access to a wide
variety of coastal environments, Cardiff is an
excellent base for both traditional fieldwork and
innovative seatime training. Following the UK-
based fieldcourse programme in the first year,
in the second and third year you will acquire
field skills at a range of European coastal
and island locations. Current options include
Greece, Malta and Jersey in the Channel
Islands. The School operates its own Research
Vessel GUIDING LIGHT, a 12m catamaran used
by all undergraduates as part of its research-
led teaching programme. In addition, Cardiff
students have taken part in UNESCO research
cruises and carried out third year project work
in marine research centres overseas. This
gives you an invaluable background in practical
aspects of coastal and marine research
techniques, which provides you with an edge in
the careers market.
6/8/08 19:52:04
 27

The BSc degree in Marine Geography is currently

undergoing the process of accreditation by the
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and
the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science
and Technology. You may also read for a 4-
year degree in Marine Geography, where the
third year is spent on an industrial placement.
This sandwich course is extremely popular
and the placements are much sought after,
as they further enhance future employment
opportunities. The majority of placements are
based in the UK, but some involve extensive
time at sea around the world, while from time
to time opportunities arise for placements
based overseas. Ecological survey of the sea floor in Malta

Recent examples of placements include:

PORT OF DOVER Environmental survey assistant

PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN Hydrographic survey assistant
PORT OF PORTLAND Survey assistants
A&P PLYMOUTH Port Surveyor
ANDREWS HYDROGRAPHIC Hydrographic Surveyor
FUGRO UDI Survey assistant
GARDLINE SURVEYS Offshore survey assistant
H R WALLINGFORD Environmental Modelling
METEROLOGICAL OFFICE Data processing assistant
PEMBROKESHIRE NATIONAL PARK Control Zone management assistant
TITAN ENVIRONMENTAL SURVEYS Survey assistant Coastal habitat project work in the Mediterranean
WORLD CONSERVATION GIS programmer
MONITORING CENTRE

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 28

BSc Earth Sciences with a Preliminary Year

(UCAS Code: F641) (4 years)

BSc Earth Sciences with a Preliminary Year

(UCAS Code: F643) (5 years, with a placement year)

The Preliminary Year forms the first year of a

four-year BSc course (five years in the case
of one of our BSc degrees with an industrial
placement year). Following the successful
completion of the Preliminary Year, students
can choose to study any of the BSc degree
programmes available in the School.

These degree programmes with a Preliminary

Year are academically demanding and are
principally designed for students who have good
A-level grades but have no science background.

Please note: the Preliminary Year is not

designed for students who have taken
appropriate A-levels but not achieved the grades
required for First Year entry. Consequently,
admission to these two degree programmes
requires the same number of Tariff Points as our
other BSc degrees.

Environmental geoscientists soil

Career Prospects
sampling in Tenerife

All of the degrees offered by Cardiff School of
Earth and Ocean Sciences will equip you to
pursue a career based on the knowledge and
skills acquired during your studies. Like most
earth science or geography degrees, with all
our courses you will develop a wide range of
transferable skills which are highly sought after
by employers. These skills include numeracy,
ICT, practical skills, effective written and oral
communication and an ability to conduct
independent research. Our graduates work in
a wide variety of areas, such as: the oil and
gas industry, mineral exploration, environment
agencies and consultancies, water authorities,
construction, port authorities, finance,
manufacturing and construction.
Many of our graduates go on to further study after
their BSc or MESci degree, and the research-
informed content of the courses in the School
means that our graduates are well equipped to
undertake specialist taught Masters courses or
high-level research leading to Doctoral degrees.

Destinations of Recent Graduates

Exploration and Resource Geology summer placement in China

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Postgraduate Masters Courses
After your first degree you may wish to specialise
in a particular area of Earth Sciences, by taking a
taught Postgraduate Masters course. The School
offers several vocationally-orientated MSc courses.
MSc Applied Environmental
Geology
This one-year MSc course provides an
understanding of geoenvironmental and
geotechnical theory and practice. The MSc course
is available to graduates with a BSc in earth
science, geology or related environmental subjects.
The focus of the degree course is vocational, and
close industrial links ensure that students are
well prepared for working in the engineering and
environmental industries or for their regulatory
agencies. The course provides knowledge of
scientific research methods and a range of
transferable skills, including project planning,
management and reporting. Students develop an
appreciation of the significance of geological data
in a range of environmental contexts including
risk-based assessment and remediation of
contaminated land and environmental protection.
In addition, the legal framework that governs
geoenvironmental and geotechnical practice in the
UK and Europe is introduced.
b)
MSc Course structure
The taught course (Stage 1) runs from
September to April and is assessed through
examinations and course work. All candidates
must pass Stage 1 before proceeding to Stage
2 of the course, when they undertake project
work leading to submission of a 20,000-word
dissertation. All project work is undertaken in
association with industrial partners, with the
majority of industrial placements including
payment. In addition to the UK, Cardiff
students have also undertaken project work in
Bangladesh, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong,
Azerbaijan, Greece and Peru.
Training
A broad training is provided, appropriate to
the needs of industry and environmental
regulators. Training builds on the scientific,
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 29
29
MSc Environmental
Hydrogeology
The one-year MSc in environmental
hydrogeology provides students with advanced
training in hydrogeology and its application
to environmental protection. The taught
course includes modules in hydrogeology,
hydrogeological field techniques and
hydrogeological modelling, together with
geoenvironmental modules shared with the
MSc Applied Environmental Geology course
such as geochemistry, risk-based assessment
and remediation of contaminated land,
pollution control and environmental protection.
The course therefore provides students with a
range of hydrological and hydrogeochemical a)
skills suitable for a career with geo-
environmental consultancies and regulatory
authorities. The taught course includes
contributions from industrial collaborators, and
staff from the Environment Agency and the
British Geological Survey.
Environmental Geology Projects
a) Landslide movement
measurements
b) Environmental mapping in
South Wales
c) Environmental water sampling
c)
geological and hydrogeological knowledge
of students, providing critical scientific
understanding of environmental processes.
Technical skills necessary to investigate a wide
range of geoenvironmental and hydrogeological
problems are introduced. The project allows
students the opportunity to specialise in a
particular aspect of the course.
Employment Prospects
Graduates offer prospective employers
a range of skills, allowing flexibility in
employment outcome. The majority join
engineering consultants. Graduates have also
secured employment with the Environment
Agency, Local Authorities, landfill operators,
conservation bodies, the British Geological
Survey, and the environmental offices of large
companies. Some have progressed to PhDs.
6/8/08 19:53:16
 30
Palaeoclimate research into Antarctic
microfossils using the School’s
Scanning Electron Microscope
Drilling sediments in Tanzania to
provide new insights into the history
of tropical climates
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 30
Research in Cardiff School of Earth and
Ocean Sciences
Cardiff Earth Sciences is a large international
research School, with over 40 leading
international research scientists. The
postgraduate research school currently
numbers about 40 students studying a diverse
range of research problems. These researchers
are addressing some of the most significant
research themes in world science at the
moment, including global change, the origin
and evolution of life, environmental science,
natural resource exploration, and the evolution
of the Earth and planets. The School has been
transformed in the past few years by a series
of major staffing, funding and infrastructure
initiatives that have enhanced its national and
international reputation.
One of the great attractions of studying
in a school that regards research so
highly is the opportunity to work alongside
active researchers. You will be able to
undertake research projects as part of your
undergraduate degree using our in-house
research facilities. The School houses
advanced analytical facilities including ICP-MS,
Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope,
3D Visualisation Suite, Geophysics Laboratory
and Parallel Computing facility, together with a
research vessel equipped with a large range of
marine geophysical acquisition and processing
equipment. The main achievements and
spheres of interest of our research groups are
described below and on the following page.
Geoenvironmental Research
Group (including Marine and
Coastal Environments)
The Geoenvironmental Research Group carries
out research into aspects of environmental
problems. Research in the terrestrial
environment ranges from the effects of
climate change on frozen ground and the
likely environmental consequences of a rise in
global temperature, to the toxicity of volcanic
ash and other pollutants on human lungs or
other receptors and to sub-surface water/
methane monitoring in urban areas. In the
marine and coastal environments research
involves: applications of marine information,
including mapping, charting and sea surveying;
environmental management of marine
resources; and integrated coastal and sea
management. The group has an extensive suite
of field equipment, including a marine research
vessel, ‘Guiding Light’.
Palaeoclimate
The Palaeoclimate Research Group studies
the response of the ocean-climate system
to various types of forcing, such as changing
greenhouse gas concentrations or ocean
circulation patterns. Current research projects
range across a wide variety of timescales. For
example, at one end of the scale the group
is analysing the causes and consequences of
rapid climate change during the last ice age; at
the other extreme researchers are investigating
the reasons for the long-term global cooling
since the age of the dinosaurs. Major research
themes include Cenozoic global climate
change, thermohaline circulation of the ocean,
and Antarctic sea ice.
6/8/08 19:53:36

Geodynamics
The Geodynamics Research Group studies
processes of basin formation, basin-filling and
basin deformation through the application of
field geological techniques, laboratory studies,
and computational techniques in imaging and
modelling of continental and oceanic basins.
The research interests of the group extend
from surface processes such as structural
controls on sediment transport and sediment
budgets to passive continental margin basins,
to deep earth processes (mantle convection
and its control on long term plate motions).
The group has a strong relationship with the
hydrocarbon industry including ConocoPhillips,
Statoil, BP, Shell, British Gas Exploration,
Total, Amerada Hess, ChevronTexaco and
Schlumberger.
Magmatic and
Hydrothermal Processes
This group has primarily focused on the
formation, dating and recycling of oceanic
lithosphere. The petrology and geochemistry
of oceanic peridotites and their constituent
minerals has been used to provide new
perspectives on mantle melting and melt/
mantle interaction and their relation to
tectonomagmatic setting and mineralization
in many locations worldwide. Members of this
group have also worked extensively on the
causes and consequences of large igneous
province formation. Research in this area has
focused on mantle source regions and the
link between volcanism and mass extinction
events.
Geochemical research laboratories
Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 31
31
Geoscience data visualisation in our 3D theatre
Geobiology
This group studies the effects of
biological processes on the Earth
System and geological records
of the evolution of life. Cardiff is
a leading international centre for
research on the early evolution
of land plants. Descriptive work
is complemented by analyses of
functional morphology, mechanics
and comparative developmental
studies on modern plants. Recent
novel and multidisciplinary research
has focused on processes of fossilisation and Geophysical mapping of active
the interrelationship between organisms and pingos in Svalbard (Arctic Circle)
environment. Principal themes are: 1) the
taxonomy and palaeobiology of invertebrates,
plants, and algae, 2) the global environmental
effects of the colonization of the land in the
Palaeozoic, 3) bacterial processes, biodiversity
and function in the environment, particularly
near-surface and deep biosphere sedimentary
systems, their geochemical impacts, and
biosphere-geosphere interactions.
6/8/08 19:53:55
 32
Admissions/Further Information
Applications MESci
A-level: 320 TP from three A-levels - at least
To be considered for entry onto the course you
one of which must be a science.
should apply online via the UCAS website using
IB: 33 International Baccalaureate points,
the ‘UCAS Apply’ facility. To use this facility
including at least one science at Higher level.
you need to log onto www.ucas.ac.uk/apply
WBQ: Pass in the Core plus 260 points from
The website will provide you with information
A-levels.
on how to apply and explain the procedure.
Applications should be made by 15th January.
BSc
A-level: 280-300 TP from three A-levels - at
UCAS will send your application to the
least one of which must be a science.
University. After we have received and
IB: 31-32 International Baccalaureate points,
considered it, we may invite you to visit the
including at least one science at Higher level.
School sometime during the period November
WBQ: Pass in the Core plus 240 points from
to early March.
A-levels.

For addresses outside of the UK there is a £5

The School will consider combinations of
charge for postage and packaging.
qualifications which include both
vocational and academic A-levels.
The Cardiff University UCAS code is CARDF
C15 and the codes for the various degree
programmes are given on the relevant pages of
this brochure.
Applicants with Other
Qualifications
We also consider applicants with excellent
Equal Opportunities records in other qualifications such as BTEC
and NVQ, Scottish Highers and Advanced
Cardiff University is committed to promoting
Highers and the Irish leaving Certificate. Please
equality and diversity in all of its practices
see our website for entry requirements with
and activities, including those relating to
these qualifications.
student recruitment, selection and admission.
The University aims to establish an inclusive
Many overseas qualifications and Open
culture which welcomes and ensures equality
University credits are also acceptable for entry.
of opportunity for applicants of all ages,
ethnicities, disabilities, family structures,
Applicants should be able to demonstrate an
genders, nationalities, sexual orientations,
intellectual ability to effectively engage with
races, religious or other beliefs, and socio-
their chosen programme of study at degree
economic backgrounds. This commitment
level. This intellectual ability will normally
forms part of the Equality and Diversity Policy
be solely assessed by predicted or actual
which is available at:
qualifications and/or exam results. However,
www.cardiff.ac.uk/cocom/equalityanddiversity/
where applicants are unable to demonstrate
index.html
the requisite potential through actual or
predicted grades, assessment of suitability for
Entry Requirements entry to one of our courses will be based on
When making offers to applicants the School the information in their UCAS form - mainly
regards the following subjects as sciences: their personal statement and references. Such
chemistry, physics, biology, geography, geology, applicants are usually invited for interview,
maths, environmental science, physical where their interest in, and aptitude for, their
education, archaeology, computing, ICT, sports chosen course will be assessed
science and psychology.

Our typical offers are:

MESci (International)
A-level: 340 TP from three A-levels - at least
two of which must be sciences.
IB: 34 International Baccalaureate points,
including at least two sciences at Higher level
WBQ: Pass in the Core plus 280 points from
A-levels.

Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 32 6/8/08 19:53:56

 Notes for Welsh Language accommodation and meet academic staff. The
Disability Adviser can be contacted at:
Applicants
We recognise that if you are a Welsh speaker Student Support Centre
you may feel more comfortable speaking to 50 Park Place
a Welsh speaking personal tutor. Provided Cardiff Cf10 3AT
there are Welsh speaking members of staff in Tel/Minicom:
your subject area, every effort will be made to (029) 2087 4844
allocate a Welsh speaker to you. If you wish, Email: williamsmel@cardiff.ac.uk
you can also submit your assessed work and
take your examinations through the medium
of Welsh, regardless of the language of tuition
of the course you are following. Some of the
Open Day
accommodation at Senghennydd Court and A university-wide Open Day is held in the
Talybont student residences has been allocated spring of each year, and provides the
for Welsh speakers and learners who would opportunity for anyone to visit the academic
like to be grouped together. If you would like to schools, residences, the Students’ Union and
take advantage of this please make a note of sports facilities.
this on your accommodation form.

Applicants with Disabilities/ Further Information

Specific Needs For further information, please email us at
earth-ug@cardiff.ac.uk or visit us at the Cardiff
All offers to study at Cardiff University are
School of Earth and Ocean Sciences website:
made solely on the basis of academic merit.
www.earth.cardiff.ac.uk
Where applicants have specific requirements
that relate to a disability or medical condition,
Admissions Office
they are encouraged to discuss these with
Cardiff School of Earth and Ocean Sciences
relevant staff in order that appropriate
Main Building
arrangements can be made to ensure the
Park Place
University provides an accessible environment.
Cardiff
Specifically, applicants are invited to contact
CF10 3YE
the Disability Adviser who can provide
Tel: +44 (0)29 2087 4830
information about the applications procedure,
Fax: +44 (0)29 2087 4326
course delivery and access to the physical
environment. Where appropriate, informal visits
can be arranged in which applicants can view

This document
can also be made
available in large print
(text), braille and on
audio tape/CD.
To request an
alternative format,
please contact Laura
Roberts,
Tel: 029 2087 4839
Email: Robertsl9@
cardiff.ac.uk

A University Open Day is held in the spring each year

Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 33 6/8/08 19:54:08

 Cardiff School of
Earth and Ocean Sciences
Admissions Tutor
Main Building, Park Place
Cardiff CF10 3YE

Tel: +44 (0) 29 2087 4830

Fax: +44 (0) 29 2087 4326
Email: earth-ug@cardiff.ac.uk

Cardiff Uni Earth 08 new.indd 34 6/8/08 19:54:08