Earth,,Ocean,And,Ecological,Sciences

EARTH, OCEANANDECOLOGICALSCIENCESTheUniversity of LiverpoolJaneHerdmanBuildingBrownlowHillLiverpool L69 3GPT: +44 (0)151 794 5199

www.liverpool.ac.uk/earth-ocean-and-ecological-sciences

MEMBEROFTHERUSSELLGROUP

FINDOUTMOREwww.liverpool.ac.uk/study

Accommodation: www.liverpool.ac.uk/accommodationFees and finance: www.liverpool.ac.uk/moneyLife in Liverpool: www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/cityStudent support: www.liverpool.ac.uk/studentsupportUGenquiries and applications: T: +44 (0)151 794 5927Geology enquiries: [email protected] enquiries: [email protected] Sciences enquiries: [email protected] enquiries: [email protected] Biology enquiries:[email protected]

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Our work often crosses the boundariesbetween these areas, for instance addressinghow the physics of ocean currents affectsnutrient supply for marine organisms, andhow climate change (recorded in the isotopiccomposition of seawater) is recorded in therocks and fossils which formed in that seawater.

The Department forms one half of the School ofEnvironmental Sciences. Being an integral partof this diverse andmultidisciplinary School, willallow you access to a wide array of excitingmodules, and encourage you to think of planetEarth in amore holistic way.

EARTHSCIENCESEarth Sciences at Liverpool comprisesthe disciplines of Geology andGeophysics.Earth Sciences are concernedwithunderstanding the evolution of the solidandmolten parts of our planet. To find outmore about our Geology andGeophysicsprogrammes, see pages 2-25.

OCEANSCIENCESThe oceans have been studied at the Universityof Liverpool since the formation of the LiverpoolTidal Institute in 1919, with research andteaching now encompassing the physics,chemistry and biology of the oceans and ourclimate. To find out more about our OceanSciences programmes, see pages 26-43.

ECOLOGYANDMARINE BIOLOGYLiverpool was the first UKUniversity to offer adegree inMarine Biology, and is an establishedleader in Ecology. As Ecologists andMarineBiologists we seek to understand patterns ofdiversity in the natural world and the processesandmechanisms that shape them. To find outmore about our Ecology andMarine Biologyprogrammes, see pages 44-60.

Earth,OceanandEcolog calSc encesThepast,presentand futureof thesolidEarth,theoceansand lifeareall inexorably linked. In thisDepartment,we researchand teachabout thesolidEarth (EarthSciences), about theseasandoceans(OceanSciences), andabouthowgroupsoforganismsevolveand interact (EcologyandMarineBiology).

Faculty of Science andEngineering > School of Environmental Sciences >Earth, OceanandEcological Scienceswww.liverpool.ac.uk/earth-ocean-and-ecological-sciences

ContentsIntroduction01Earth Sciences 02Ocean Sciences 26Ecology andMarine Biology 44Applicationsandadmissions 61

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Accredited programmes.Where appropriate,our degree programmes have been accreditedby the Geological Society of London orrecognised by the Institute of Physics,indicating that graduates have gained theskills necessary for a professional careerin their chosen field.

Exciting career prospects.Our degrees willprepare you for many areas of employment from environmental protection and consultancy,planning and conservation, through to thepetroleum, geotechnical andmineral extractionindustries or a career in scientific research oracademia. Many of our staff have experienceoutside of academia, and are well placed tooffer guidance and advice onwork placementsand careers in industry.

WHYCHOOSE EARTHSCIENCESAT LIVERPOOL?Small classes; big ideas. A great staff:student ratiomeans that youwill neverbe an anonymous student in an enormousclass. Youwill be taught subject specificand transferrable skills in a genuinely friendlyatmosphere, where staff and studentsget to know each other as individuals.

Research excellence in a friendlyatmosphere.Wehave an excellent reputationfor both teaching and research, and providea diverse range of degree programmes in astimulating and supportive atmosphere. Youwill be taught by research-active staff, who areat the forefront of their chosen fields. Research-led teaching ensures that youwill learn aboutcutting-edge science before it is incorporatedinto textbooks. Project work, carried out withinthe research groups, will allow you to useresearch equipment and techniques. Allstudents have a personal tutor, who can offerguidance and support throughout your timeat university.

Extensive fieldwork opportunities.Liverpool has an enviable reputation forfieldwork teaching in the Earth Sciences. Fieldclasses are an important part of all our degreeprogrammes, and youwill visit places whereyou canwitness Earth processes at first hand.Class sizes are kept small to ensure that youget themost from your time in the field, andgraduate as a practical and confidentproblem solver.

World class teaching facilities.Our brandnew award-winning Central Teaching Hubopened in 2012. As Europesmost advancedteaching laboratories they offer unparalleledundergraduate access to research gradeequipment. Other research equipment facilitiesinclude the Networked Earth ScienceSupercomputing Cluster; rock deformationlaboratory; stable isotope laboratory; uniqueexperimental scanning electronmicroscope;organicmass spectrometry laboratory; state-of-the-art tracemetal analytical facilities andthe world-leading geomagnetism laboratory.

A vibrant undergraduate society. TheHerdman Society is very active in the life ofthe department. They organise weekly talksby guest speakers, and an annual symposiumon a topic of current geological interest thatdraws distinguished speakers from acrossEurope. They are also the social heart of thedepartment, arranging regular nights out,fieldtrips and an annual ball.

Track record. Liverpool have been offeringundergraduate degrees in Geophysicslonger than any other UK university. Our firstgeophysics programme started in 1967.

Our commitment to fieldwork extends backmany years.Renowned field geologist andHerdman Professor of Geology at Liverpool,Harold Read, commented in 1940 that,thebest geologist is the onewho has seen themost rocks.We continue that tradition ofextensive and practical field training to enableyou to become the best geologist possible.

Faculty of Science andEngineering > School of Environmental Sciences >Earth, OceanandEcological Scienceswww.liverpool.ac.uk/earth-ocean-and-ecological-sciences

EEaarrtthh SScciieenncceessThe study of the Earth spans a wide range of disciplinesmaking it challenging, exciting and rewarding. You willlearn 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.

Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences > Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences www.liverpool.ac.uk/earth-ocean-and-ecological-sciences

See what Jamie had to say about studying Geology and Geophysics at Liverpoolwww.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/video

The project involves drilling down to a depth of 1.5 km, and laying sensors that can monitorthe fault zone in the build-up to the next majorevent. This will provide the researchers withdata that will help them to understand howearthquakes actually nucleate.

In addition to these field observations, samples of the fault rocks will be extracted from the boreholes to be inspected and testedin the laboratory. The microscopic structure of the rocks will be studied using a powerfulScanning Electron Microscope. Samples willalso be subjected to lab-induced earthquakeconditions. Together, these observations will tellthe researchers how the rocks in this area willbehave during a real earthquake, with importantimplications for seismic hazard assessment.

One current area of research, undertaken byProfessor 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 knownabout how earthquakes are actually triggeredand propagate. The researchers at Liverpoolanticipate that by carefully studying thestructure and properties of rocks in fault zones, they will be able to shed some light on these questions.

Professor Faulkner and Dr Mariani are currentlyinvestigating the Alpine Fault Zone in NewZealand, where the Australian and Pacifictectonic plates collide. Major (magnitude 8)earthquakes have occurred along this faultevery 300 years on average, with the last event occurring in 1717.

Research in contextThe University of Liverpool is a research-intensiveuniversity, and many of our academic staff are leadingresearchers 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.

Geophysicsis 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 courseis the fieldwork, Ive been to Scotland, Wales, Ireland, the Alps. In January, I go to Tenerife when we get to use all thegeophysical equipment youd usein a job.JAMIE RICHARDSONGEOLOGY AND GEOPHYSICS MESCI (HONS)

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QUALIFYING YOU FOR LIFEAs well as subject-specific skills, you willgraduate with a wide range of transferrableskills. You will have experience of workingindependently and as a member of a team. You will have presented work in the form ofreports, posters and oral presentations, and will have used a wide range of software andspecialist equipment. You will have gained time-management and organisational skillsfrom arranging your independent project, andwill be able to integrate large quantities of datafrom a wide range of sources and at a variety of scales to solve real-world problems.

CAREER PROSPECTSThe majority of our recent graduates havegained employment within a degree related field or continued within further education

after graduation. We have close links withgeoscience and environmental industriesensuring that our degrees properly equip you for future employment.

WORK EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIESMany of our students successfully completeinternships in industry, during universityvacations. A large proportion of the academicstaff in the department have worked outside of academia and can provide support andguidance in finding a suitable position.

RECENT EMPLOYERSCompanies employing our graduates inrecent years include:

Geological Surveys in the UK and abroadHydrocarbon and support industries:ExxonMobil, BP, Shell, Geotrace,Geokinetics, NeftexEngineering and environmentalconsultancies: The Environment Agency,Environmental Resources Management,URS Corporation, Caulmert Ltd, VerdErgRenewablesMining and related industries: Gold Fields, RioTinto, Cliffs Natural Resources, GeologicalSolutions, Hanson Aggregate Marine Ltd.06

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An investment in your futureThere has never been a better time to study the EarthSciences. Many of the most fundamental questions of our times will be answered by geoscientists, as weseek to sustainably provide resources for the worldspopulation, predict and mitigate against naturalhazards, and understand the planet on which we live.

Graduate

Profile

I am currently a Senior Environmental Consultant at an engineering, environmental and planningconsultancy, offering a broad range of consultancyservices. 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 beinvolved in site work which keeps things interesting. Ispecialise in water management, investigating the causes of flooding, and possible solutions to floodingproblems for private developers or local authorities.

In my job, Ioften have to undertake surveys, mapping andinvestigate the physical characteristics of a site. All thefieldwork I did during my degree was an enormous helpin giving me the basic skills I needed in a graduate role.KATIE BURTONGEOLOGY AND PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY BSC (HONS)SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTCAULMERT LTD

Prog amme detailsWHICH DEGREEIn Earth Sciences, we offer a range of three-yearBSc (Hons) degree programmes and four-yearundergraduate Masters programmes (MESci).All our degrees will provide you with skills thatare both subject specific and transferable. Ourdegrees are flexible, so it is possible to changefrom a BSc (Hons) programme to a MESci(Hons) degree during your studies or vice versa.

Geology: Geology is the science of the Earth, including everything from the deep Earth interior through to the sediments onEarths surface. It is a truly interdisciplinarysubject, encompassing aspects of many of the pure sciences. In Liverpool, we emphasisethe practical and applied aspects of Geology. All of our degrees include extensive and wellintegrated 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 Geologywith a year in North America. The four-yeardegrees have an advanced research project as a major component of the final year. TheLiverpool Geologist is practical, confident and employable.

Geology and Physical Geography: Geologyand Physical Geography are intimately linked,but are often taught entirely separately. OurGPG degrees draw on the complementaryexpertise of academic staff from both subjectsto provide a truly integrated programme. Rather than offer unlimited choice acrossgeological and physical geography topics, we have carefully designed a degree thatprovides training in earth surface processes,and soft-rock geology. With an emphasis onenvironmental hazards, petroleum geology andthe reconstruction of past climates, graduatesfrom this programme are very employable.


HOW YOU LEARNTeaching takes place through lectures,practicals, workshops, seminars, tutorials and fieldwork, with an emphasis on learningthrough doing. The new Central Teaching Hub opened in 2012 provides a state-of-the-art facility for undergraduate practical work.Students value the learning opportunitiesprovided by field classes, including the rapidfeedback on performance.

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. Thedegree programmes are modular with a typicalmodule involving two one-hour lectures eachweek, and a three-hour laboratory or computer-based practical as well. Tutorials typicallyinvolve groups of six to eight students meetingwith a member of staff at least every two weeksin Years One and Two. In Year Three, studentsdo an Honours project, which is a piece ofindependent research (field, laboratory or dataanalysis) on a topic of their choice, supervisedby a member of staff. Students in Year Threemeet with their project supervisor on a weeklyor 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.

HOW YOU ARE ASSESSEDStudents are assessed via a mixture ofcontinuous assessment and formal exams.Some modules, including many of theresidential field-based modules are assessedentirely on the basis of work completed in the field. Most modules contain between 30 and 50% continuous assessment.

Degrees at a Glance UCAS Code Length (Years) Page

Geology BSc (Hons) F600 3 10

Geology MESci (Hons) F601 4 12

Geology (North America) MESci (Hons) F603 4 14

Geology and Physical Geography BSc (Hons) F6F8 3 15

Geology and Physical Geography MESci (Hons) FF68 4 17

Geophysics (Geology) BSc (Hons) F640 3 18

Geology and Geophysics MESci (Hons) F641 4 20

Geophysics (North America) MESci (Hons) F660 4 23

Geophysics (Physics) BSc (Hons) F656 3 22

Programme with a Foundation YearEarth Sciences entry route leading to BSc (Hons) F608 4 24(4 year route including a Foundation Year at Carmel College)

Programme offered by the School of Environmental SciencesEnvironmental Science BSc (Hons) F750 3 56

This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree. See www.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honours for further details.

Entrance RequirementsSee 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: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1744 452 224 www.carmel.ac.uk

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Year TwoStudents take the following compulsorymodules:

Research SkillsMetamorphism and Crustal EvolutionExploration GeophysicsSedimentary Processes and DepositionalEnvironmentsMagmatism and Volcanic HazardsStructural Geology and Interpretation of Geological MapsDeep Earth Mineralisation SystemsField Mapping TechniquesDynamic StratigraphyPalaeobiology and Evolution

Fieldwork:

14 days Geological Mapping Training in Spain (Easter)

Year ThreeThis year aims to train students in the analysis of large-scale, multidisciplinary geologicalproblems and provide an awareness of the key applications and employment areas ingeoscience. A major feature of this year of study is the dissertation in which studentshave the opportunity to conduct a major piece of original research based on primaryscientific information and present it in asubstantial report.

Year One Years One and Two aim to provide acomprehensive introduction to core disciplinesin geoscience assuming no prior knowledge ofthe subject. A strong feature of Years One andTwo is the development of transferable skills (eg IT, report writing, oral communication),integrated within a tutorial system.

Students take the following compulsorymodules:

Study Skills and GIS Introduction to Field GeologyEarth Structure and Plate TectonicsMinerals, Magmas and VolcanoesIntroduction to Sedimentary Rocks and FossilsIntroduction to Structural Geology and Geological Maps

Two options from:

Climate, Atmosphere and OceansMaths and Physics for EnvironmentalScientistsLiving with Environmental ChangeEnvironmental ChemistryOcean Chemistry and LifeTheory and Laboratory Experiments in Earth Surface Processes

Fieldwork:

Two days in North Wales (autumn)Seven days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)

Students study a core programme with fieldcourses and tutorials that are specific to theGPG degree. We offer three-and four-yearprogrammes in Geology and PhysicalGeography. The four-year programme enablesstudents to carry out a more advanced researchproject in either Geology or Physical Geography.

Geophysics: Geophysics investigates thefundamental structure and evolution of ourplanet. It involves the application of physicalprinciples to the study of the Earth, and,increasingly, the other planets. In contrast tomost other UK universities, we offer a range of geophysics degrees two three-year BSc(Hons) programmes; Geophysics (geology) and Geophysics (physics), which share coregeophysics modules but allow for either a more geological or physical emphasis insupporting modules, and two four-year MESciprogrammes, which involve more intensive and rigorous training and research. Geologyand Geophysics includes full training in bothgeophysics and geology and, Geophysics with a year in North America includes the third year spent at a partner university.

Geology BSc (Hons) UCAS code: F600Programme length: 3 years

Geology enquiries: [email protected]

Geology is the study of planet Earth rangingfrom natural hazards to natural resources, and from the history of life to the history of the planet itself. This programme provides athorough, process based and highly practicaltraining in modern geology, with a strongemphasis on fieldwork. No prior knowledge of geology is assumed. The course will benefitstudents wishing to take up professionalcareers as geologists in industry, as the degree is accredited under the Accreditation of Geoscience First Degree scheme of theGeological Society of London. This schemeconfirms the programme offers training of a calibre suitable for a professional career in geosciences and that it satisfies therequirements of Fellowship and CharteredGeologist status. Graduates are highlysuccessful in finding employment asprofessional geologists and in degree-related careers.

PROGRAMME CONTENTYour training will cover core topics includingSedimentology, Stratigraphy, Fossils, Volcanoes,Minerals, Metamorphism, Structural Geology,Geological Maps, and Plate Tectonics, as wellas comprehensive training in Field Geology andIT and Communication Skills. In addition, in YearThree you will take modules in applied topicssuch Hydrogeology, Engineering Geology andHydrocarbon Reserves. Options in OceanScience, Geophysics and Geodynamics areavailable. Current field areas include Spain,Dorset, Ireland and Wales. In Year Three, youwill undertake an independent field project and dissertation, either in the UK or abroad.

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For current entrance requirements and full module details, see www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses

Project:

35 days independent project fieldwork (in the summer between Years Two andThree). Dissertation write-up in SemesterOne, Year Three.

Year FourStudents take the following compulsorymodules:

Volcanic ProcessesAdvanced Geological ProjectGeodynamics Field ClassResearch MethodsGeodynamic Field Class (or Applied Basin Analysis)

One option from:

The Ocean Carbon CycleGeohazards and Risk MitigationMineral Deposits in Space and TimeRock DeformationEvolution, Oceans and ClimateHydrogeology

Fieldwork:

10 days in Tenerife (winter)Seven days in Northern Spain (Easter)

Advanced Research Project:

Advanced Geological Project andDissertation focused on one of the areas of current research in the Department eg Sedimentology, Rock Microstructures, Rock Deformation, Geochemistry,Volcanology, Palaeontology.

Years One and TwoYears One and Two follow the sameprogramme as F600. See page 11.

Year ThreeYears Three and Four lead students to research-level understanding of a range of Earth Scienceproblems and issues, via formal teaching and independent work. A major feature of thethird year is the dissertation in which studentshave the opportunity to conduct a major pieceof independent fieldwork and present it in a substantial report.


Basins: Formation, Filling and HydrocarbonResourcesEngineering GeologyAdvanced Field TechniquesField Project and DissertationApplied Basin Analysis (or Geodynamic Field Class)

One option from:

Environmental GeophysicsThe Ocean Carbon CycleHydrogeologyMineral Deposits in Space and TimeEvolution, Oceans and Climate

Fieldwork:

12 days Advanced Field Techniquesin Donegal, Ireland (summer between Years Two and Three)Six days Applied Basin Analysis Field Course in Dorset (Easter)


Basins: Formation, Filling and Hydrocarbon ResourcesEngineering GeologyAdvanced Field TechniquesField Project and DissertationApplied Basis AnalysisHydrogeology

One option from:

Environmental Geophysics The Ocean Carbon CycleMineral Deposits in Space and TimeEvolution, Oceans and Climate

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 (in the summer between Years Two andThree). Dissertation write-up in SemesterOne, Year Three.

This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree. Seewww.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honoursfor further details.

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Geology MESci (Hons)UCAS code: F601Programme length: 4 years


The first two years of this four-year degree are shared with the BSc Geologyprogramme; the final two years provide moreadvanced training in all aspects of geology. The programme has a high level of field-basedtraining and is specifically designed to give you skills in data analysis, synthesis, problemsolving, research and reporting your results.Graduates from this degree are very successfulin finding degree related employment or continuing onto PhD programmes.

PROGRAMME CONTENTYou will undertake a geological mapping project and complete a dissertation in YearThree. Modules specific to the four-yearprogramme include Volcanic Processes,Geohazards, and Rock Deformation. Year Four field classes visit Northern Spain andTenerife. In Year Four, you will work within one of our research groups and complete a majorgeological research project. This will involvedevelopment of research and communicationskills through a project proposal, literaturereview, journal-style manuscript andconference-style talk.

There is scope for an industrial placement with organisations such as Shell, BP, Exxon-Mobil, the Environment Agency and the BritishGeological Survey. Many of our studentssuccessfully complete internships in industrybetween Years Three and Four.

This programme is recognised under theAccreditation of Geoscience First Degreescheme of the Geological Society of Londonand is suitable for a professional career in geosciences.

PROGRAMME CONTENTYour training will include the comprehensivestudy of surface and near surface processes,relevant to many industrial, engineering andenvironmental employment sectors. Years Oneand Two cover a wide range of geological andphysical geography topics, allowing for greaterchoice in the final year. A research baseddissertation is undertaken in Year Three on a geological and/or geomorphological topic. A third-year two-week field class to southeastern Spain, designed exclusively forGeology 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 RecentEnvironmental Change, Engineering Geology) or PhD degree programmes.

Year OneStudents take the following compulsorymodules:

Study Skills and GISIntroduction to Field GeologyMinerals, Magmas and VolcanoesIntroduction to Sedimentary Rocks and FossilsExperiments in Physical Geography 1Introduction to Structural Geology andGeological MapsTheory and Laboratory Experiments in Earth Surface Processes

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PROGRAMME CONTENTModules specific to the four-year programmeinclude Volcanic Processes, Geohazards, and Rock Deformation. Year Four field classesvisit Northern Spain and Tenerife. In Year Four,you will work within one of our research groupsand complete a major field-based geologicalresearch project. This will involve developmentof research and communication skills through a project proposal, literature review, journal-style manuscript and conference-style talk. This programme is recognised under theAccreditation of Geoscience First Degreescheme of the Geological Society of Londonand is suitable for a professional career in geosciences.

Years One and TwoYears One and Two follow the sameprogramme as F600. See pages 10-11.

Year ThreeSpent at a sister department in North America


Volcanic ProcessesAdvanced Geological ProjectGeodynamics Field Class (or Applied Basin Analysis)Research Methods

One option from:

The Ocean Carbon CycleGeohazards and Risk MitigationMineral Deposits in Space and TimeRock DeformationEvolution, Oceans and ClimateHydrogeology



Geology (North America) MESci (Hons)UCAS code: F603Programme length: 4 years


The first two years of this four-year degree are shared with the BSc programme whilst the final two years provide more advancedtraining, with the third year spent at a sisterdepartment 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, problemsolving, research and reporting, it affords anopportunity 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 theUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign andMcGill University in Toronto. The number ofplaces available on this degree programme islimited. Students who apply, but dont achievethe required grades, will be offered a place oneither F601 or F600, provided they obtain therequired grades for those programmes.

Fieldwork:

10 days in Tenerife (winter)Seven days in Northern Spain or six days in Dorset (Easter)

Advanced Research Project:

Advanced Geological Project andDissertation 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: F6F8Programme length: 3 years


The Earth surface system is dynamic anddiverse, with changes driven by the interplay of physical, chemical, geological and biologicalprocesses in a wide range of environments.Drawing on the complementary expertise ofstaff in Geology and Physical Geography, thisintegrated degree programme provides a clearview of the controlling processes that linklandscape evolution with environmental changeand natural events that impact human activity.

In contrast to similarly titled programmeselsewhere, all fieldwork in Years Two and Three is exclusively designed for this degree,thus specifically addressing the academicneeds of an integrated discipline.

This programme is recognised under theAccreditation of Geoscience First Degreescheme of the Geological Society of London,satisfying the requirements of Fellowship andChartered Geologist status.

One option from:

Earth Structure and Plate TectronicsLiving with Environmental Change

Fieldwork:

Two days in North Wales (autumn)Seven days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)Four days in NW England/Wales


Research SkillsSedimentary Processes and DepositionalEnvironmentsGeomorphologyField Mapping Techniques

Four to six options from:

Structural Geology and Interpretation of Geological MapsDynamic StratigraphyPalaeobiology and EvolutionQuaternary Environmental ChangeSoils and SlopesCatchment HydrologyClimatologyMagmatism and Volcanic HazardsDeep Earth Mineralisation Systems

Fieldwork:

14 days in Scotland (summer)Six days in NW England/Wales

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The unique range of skills that MESci Geologyand Physical Geography students developmake them attractive to employers in thegeotechnical and resource explorationindustries, as well as the environmentalmonitoring, surveying and planning sectors.

Years One and TwoYears One and Two follow the sameprogramme as F6F8. See pages 15-16.

Year ThreeStudents take the following compulsorymodules:

Basins: Formation, Filling and HydrocarbonResourcesField Project and DissertationGeodynamics of the MediterraneanFluvial Environments

Three/four options from:

Metamorphism and Crustal EvolutionMagmatism and Volcanic HazardsDeep Earth Mineralisation SystemsHuman-Environmental InteractionsGeographies of Energy and NaturalResourcesEngineering Geology HydrogeologyCoastal Environments: Temporal and Spatial ChangeClimate Change: a Critical ReviewNatural Hazards and Societies

Fieldwork:

14 days in the Betics, Spain (Easter)Three to five days in NW England




Basins: Formation, Filling and HydrocarbonResourcesField Project and DissertationGeodynamics of the MediterraneanFluvial Environments

Three/four options from:

Metamorphism and Crustal EvolutionMagmatism and Volcanic HazardsDeep Earth Mineralisation SystemsHuman-Environmental InteractionsGeographies of Energy and NaturalResourcesEngineering GeologyHydrogeologyCoastal Environments: Spatial and Temporal ChangeClimate Change: a Critical ReviewEvolution, Oceans and ClimateNatural 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 (in the summer between Years Two andThree). Dissertation write-up in SemesterOne, Year Three.

Geology and Physical Geography MESci (Hons)UCAS code: FF68Programme length: 4 years


This four-year MESci Geology and Physical Geography degree is a stronglyintegrated programme benefiting from thecomplementary research expertise of staff in Geology and Physical Geography. Thedegree provides thorough training in the multi-disciplinary approach required to documentand understand spatial and temporal variationsin physical processes operating on the Earth.

The first two years are shared with the BScprogramme. The final two years provide a widerchoice of taught modules and a comprehensivefieldwork programme. In addition, studentshave the opportunity to design and undertake a major individual research project that willprovide them with skills in analysis, synthesis,problem solving, and reporting.

This degree is accredited by the GeologicalSociety of London, satisfying the requirementsof Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status.

PROGRAMME CONTENTYour training will focus on practical andquantitative aspects of geological andgeographical science through study of theinteraction of surface and near surfaceprocesses 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 theopportunity for additional field courses toDorset (applied basin analysis) and Tenerife(volcanic processes).

Project:

35 days Field Project and Dissertation (in the summer between Years Two andThree). Dissertation write-up in SemesterOne, Year Three.


Advanced Geology Physical GeographyProjectResearch MethodsEvolution, Oceans and ClimateApplied Basin Analysis

Two options from:

Volcanic ProcessesGeohazards and Risk MitigationMineral Deposits in Space and TimeRock DeformationClimate Processes and VariabilityHuman Impacts on the EnvironmentHydrogeologyLaboratory Methods and Techniques in Environmental Reconstruction

Fieldwork:

Six days Applied Basin Analysis Field Coursein Dorset (Easter)Optional 10 days in Tenerife (winter)

Project:

Advanced geological or physical geographyproject focused on an area of currentresearch within the School.

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Study Skills and GISIntroduction to Field GeologyEarth Structure and Plate TectonicsIntroduction to Sedimentary Rocks and FossilsIntroduction to Structural Geology and Geological MapsNewtonian DynamicsMaths for Physics 1Maths for Physics 2

Fieldwork:

Two days in North Wales (autumn)Seven days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)Two days in Anglesey (spring)

Year TwoStudents take the following compulsory modules:

Minerals, Magmas and VolcanoesGeophysical Mathematics and PotentialTheoryExploration GeophysicsSeismology and ComputingEnvironmental GeophysicsField Mapping TechniquesElectromagnetism

One/two options from:

Metamorphism and Crustal EvolutionMagmatism and Volcanic HazardsDeep Earth Mineralisation SystemsDynamic Stratigraphy

Fieldwork:




Geophysics (Geology) BSc (Hons)UCAS code: F640Programme length: 3 years

Geophysics enquiries:[email protected]

This three-year degree provides high-leveltraining in geophysics with supporting geology,and including fundamental university training in physics and mathematics. The degree is accredited under the Accreditation ofGeoscience First Degree scheme of theGeological Society of London. This schemeconfirms the programme offers training of a calibre suitable for a professional career in geosciences and that it satisfies therequirements of Fellowship and CharteredGeologist status.

Graduates from this degree are very successfulin finding degree-related employment orcontinuing with further education. Thisprogramme is particularly strong for careers ininterpretation and processing of geophysicaldata, and research areas related to geologicalapplications.

Transfer to a Geology degree is possible up to the end of the first year.

PROGRAMME CONTENTThe programme covers core topics in geology, geophysics and physics, plus a choice of advanced modules in geophysics.Major features include training in practicalgeophysics, exploration geophysics(particularly seismology), planetary-scalegeophysics and geophysical inverse theory.

Fieldwork currently involves field areas in Wales,Spain and Tenerife. You will work within one ofour research groups to undertake a significantgeophysical research project in your final year.This provides excellent training in researchmethodology for an academic or industrialresearch career.


Geophysical ProjectEarthquake SeismologyExploration Geophysics and SignalProcessingGeophysical Exploration TechniquesGeodynamics

Two options from:

Metamorphism and Crustal EvolutionSedimentary Processes and DepositionalEnvironmentsPlanetary GeophysicsMineral Deposits in Space and Time Rock DeformationGeophysical Data Modelling

Fieldwork:

14 days in Tenerife (winter)

Project:

Field, laboratory or computer-basedGeophysics Project.


Minerals, Magmas and VolcanoesGeophysical Mathematics and Potential TheoryExploration GeophysicsSeismology and ComputingStructural Geology and Interpretation of Geological MapsField Mapping TechniquesDynamic StratigraphyElectromagnetism

One option from:

Magmatism and Volcanic HazardsDeep Earth Mineralisation Systems

Fieldwork:



Metamorphosim and Crustal EvolutionEnvironmental GeophysicsEarthquake SeismologyExploration Geophysics and SignalProcessingAdvanced Field TechniquesField Project DissertationGeodynamics

Fieldwork:

12 days Advanced Field Techniques inDonegal in the summer between Years Two and Three

PROGRAMME CONTENTYou will cover core topics in geophysics,geology, physics and mathematics. Majorfeatures include training in practical geologyand geophysics, exploration geophysics(particularly seismology), planetary-scalegeophysics and geophysical inverse theory.Fieldwork currently involves field areas in Ireland, Wales, Tenerife, and Spain.

In Year Three, you will undertake anindependent field mapping project anddissertation, either in the UK or abroad. In the final year you will work within one of ourgeophysical research groups to undertake a substantial research project, generallyproducing research of publishable quality thus providing an ideal entry into furtherresearch degrees if desired.

Year OneA strong feature of Years One and Two is theacquisition of fundamentals in Maths, Physics,Geology and Geophysics supported by anintegrated approach to transferable skillsconveyed through the tutorial system.


Study Skills and GISIntroduction to Field GeologyEarth Structure and Plate TectonicsIntroduction to Sedimentary Rocks and FossilsIntroduction to Structural Geologyand Geological MapsNewtonian DynamicsMaths for Physics 1Maths for Physics 2

Fieldwork:

Two days in North Wales (autumn)Seven days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)Two days in Anglesey (spring)

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Project:

Geological Field Project and Dissertation (35 days fieldwork in the summer betweenYears Two and Three). Dissertation write-up in Semester One, Year Three.


Geophysical Project (Masters level)Planetary GeophysicsGeophysical Data ModellingGeophysical Exploration Techniques(Masters level)

One option from:

Geodynamics Field ClassGeohazards and Risk MitigationMineral Deposits in Space and TimeRock Deformation

Fieldwork:

14 days in Tenerife (winter)Optional seven day Geodynamics field class in Spain (Easter)

Project:

Field, laboratory or computer-basedAdvanced Geophysics project.

Geology and Geophysics MESci (Hons)UCAS code: F641Programme length: 4 years


This four-year degree delivers advanced and rigorous training in both geophysics andgeology, including a high proportion of fieldbased work, and including fundamentaluniversity training in physics and mathematics.

The degree is accredited under theAccreditation of Geoscience First Degreescheme of the Geological Society of London.This scheme confirms the programme offerstraining of a calibre suitable for a professionalcareer in geosciences and that it satisfies therequirements of Fellowship and CharteredGeologist status. Transfer to a geology degreeis possible up to the end of the first year.

Graduates are highly successful in findingdegree-related careers or continuing onto PhD programmes. The degree programmeprovides an excellent background for a wide-ranging career in geosciences, allowing(for example) flexible career paths betweengeology and geophysics in a large company.

The number of places available on this degreeprogramme 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 theAccreditation of Geoscience First Degreescheme of the Geological Society of London.This scheme confirms the programme offerstraining of a calibre suitable for a professionalcareer in geosciences and that it satisfies therequirements of Fellowship and CharteredGeologist status.

Graduates are highly successful in findingdegree-related careers or continuing onto PhD programmes. The degree programme is particularly strong for careers in interpretationand processing of geophysical data, andresearch areas related to geological applications.

PROGRAMME CONTENTThe programme gives high level training ingeophysics with supporting geology, andincluding fundamental university training inphysics and mathematics. Major featuresinclude training in practical geophysics,exploration geophysics (particularlyseismology), 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, generallyproducing research of publishable quality thusproviding an ideal entry into further researchdegrees if desired.

You will work within one of our research groupsto undertake a significant geophysical researchproject in your final year. This provides excellenttraining in research methodology for anacademic or industrial research career.


Study Skills and GISEarth Structure and Plate TectonicsIntroduction to Sedimentary Rocks and FossilsNewtonian DynamicsWave PhenomenaFoundations of Modern PhysicsMaths for Physicists 1Maths for Physicists 2

Fieldwork:

Two days in Anglesey (spring)


Geophysical Mathematics and Potential TheoryExploration GeophysicsSeismology and ComputingEnvironmental Geophysics Material UniverseElectromagnetismCondensed Matter PhysicsQuantum and Atomic Physics

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Geophysical ProjectEarthquake SeismologyExploration Geophysics and SignalProcessingGeophysical Exploration TechniquesGeodynamics

Two options from:

Ocean DynamicsPlanetary GeophysicsGeophysical Data ModellingNuclear Physics

Fieldwork:

14 days in Tenerife (winter)

Geophysics (North America) MESci (Hons)UCAS code: F660Programme length: 4 years


The first two years of this four-year degree are shared with the F640 programme whilst the final two years provide more advancedtraining. Your third year will be spent at a sisterdepartment in North America or Australia,where you will have the opportunity toexperience a different culture and learningenvironment, along with access to diversesubject areas. Current links include theUniversity of Connecticut, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, McGillUniversity, Montreal, Canada; TorontoUniversity in Canada and Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.

Geophysics (Physics) BSc (Hons)UCAS code: F656Programme length: 3 years


This three-year degree programme providestraining in the principles and practice ofgeophysics with an emphasis on pure andpractical physics. High level training is given ingeophysics with supporting physics, providingclassical physics training to second yearuniversity level, and including university trainingin geology and mathematics. This degree is recognised by the Institute of Physics.

Graduates from this degree are very successful in finding degree-relatedemployment or continuing with furthereducation. The programme is particularlystrong for careers in geophysical data analysis, and research areas related to global geophysics and planetary science.

Transfer to a Physics degree is possible up to the end of the first year.

PROGRAMME CONTENTThe programme will cover core topics inphysics, geophysics, geology and mathematics,plus a choice of advanced modules ingeophysics. Major features include training inpractical geophysics, exploration geophysics(particularly seismology), planetary-scalegeophysics and geophysical inverse theory.

Years One and TwoYears One and Two follow the same progammeas F640. See page 18-19.

Year ThreeAt a university in the United States, Canada or Australia. Current partners include: theUniversity of Connecticut, the University ofIllinois at Urbana-Champaign, McGill Universityin Montreal, Canada and Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.


Geophysical Project (Masters level)Geophysical Exploration Techniques(Masters level)

Three options from:

Earthquake SeismologyExploration Geophysics and SignalProcessingGeodynamicsGeohazards and Risk MitigationPlanetary GeophysicsMineral Deposits in Space and TimeRock DeformationGeophysical Data Modelling

Project:

Field, laboratory or computer-basedAdvanced Geophysics Project

Fieldwork:

14 days in Tenerife, Canary Islands (winter)

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Programme with a Foundation YearEarth Sciences entry route leading to BSc (Hons) (4 year route including a Foundation Year at Carmel College)UCAS code: F608Programme length: 4 years

This programme provides a route into a numberof BSc (Hons) degrees in Earth or OceanSciences; it is especially suitable for studentswithout a strong background in science. Youwill follow a foundation year at Carmel College(St Helens, nine miles from the University ofLiverpool), where the class sizes are small andthe 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 CONTENTFoundation Year (Year Zero)Students follow three foundation moduleschosen from Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics,Biology or Geography. Module choice dependson the programme students wish to follow afterthe Foundation Year.

Years One, Two and Three Students follow their chosen programme on the main University campus.

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Research excellence in a friendlyenvironment. You will be taught by world-classresearch-active staff who are at the forefront of their chosen fields. Research-led teachingensures that you will learn about cutting-edge science before it is incorporated intotextbooks. Project work, carried out within theresearch groups, will allow you to use researchequipment and latest techniques. All studentshave a personal tutor, who can offer guidanceand support throughout your time at university.

Developing scientists to address globalenvironmental problems.Our degreeprogrammes are designed to producescientists with a range of skills, enabling ourstudents to have the flexibility to go into eitherfurther scientific research, commercial orindustrial work, or indeed any role that requiresa high level of practical and analytical expertise.We train students to critically assess scientifichypotheses and concepts, and to constructsuitable routes to solving novel problems.

The University of Liverpool was the firstuniversity in the UK to open a Department of Oceanography. We have an excellentreputation for both teaching and research, and provide a diverse range of degreeprogrammes in a stimulating and supportiveenvironment. Training in analytical techniques to study the marine environment is provided inthe new Central Teaching Laboratories usingstate-of-the-art analytical equipment.

WHY CHOOSE OCEAN SCIENCES AT LIVERPOOLThe combination of new facilities, our centurylong record of marine research, links to theNational Oceanography Centre, Liverpool andan interdisciplinary approach ensures that ourmarine science graduates are highly regardedand employable.

Ocean Sciences provides the opportunity of developing these skills within the context of an exciting subject that spans across thetraditional scientific disciplines. We are the onlyUniversity in the UK to train Ocean Sciencestudents in data management and modellingusing industry standard software in Year Two,so they can apply these skills in Year Three intheir research project.

Excellent facilities and excitingopportunities. Training in analytical techniquesto study the marine environment is provided inthe new Central Teaching Laboratories usingstate-of-the-art analytical equipment. Studentshave 24-hour access to library and computingfacilities, and during final year projects, haveaccess to the Universitys research vessel. Year Three projects are supervised by world-leading experts and allow students to tackle real environmental issues. Recent projectsinclude using global ocean data sets to assessthe spatial variation in sea level change,investigating the regional imprint of sea surfacetemperature changes, investigating the impactof oxygen minimum zones on deep sea benthicmacro-faunal communities, and using simplemodels to investigate the impact of wind andstorms 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 wascreated and began to predict the tide. By the1950s, the Tidal Institute was predicting tidesfor over two thirds of the worlds seas and later developed the worlds first storm-surgeprediction model.The UK Meteorological Officenow uses an updated version of this model.

STUDY ABROADAs part of your Ocean Sciences degree atLiverpool you may have the opportunity tostudy abroad. Studying abroad has hugepersonal and academic benefits, as well asgiving you a head start in the graduate jobmarket. Ocean Science students can currentlyapply to study abroad with a number of ourworldwide partners. For more information, visit www.liverpool.ac.uk/goabroad


OOcceeaann SScciieenncceessThe study of the Ocean is exciting, challenging andrewarding. 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.


In the shelf seas the response to a warmingclimate is more easily seen. Unlike the deepNorth Atlantic, the shallow waters around our coasts can quickly reach a thermalequilibrium with the warming atmosphere. We have found a very strong correlationbetween 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 MICRONUTRIENTFOR MARINE PHYTOPLANKTON.We are currently conducting research tounderstand the effects of both artificial andnatural fertilisation on biological communities in the Southern Ocean. Artificial fertilisationexperiments involve the addition of an ironcompound, such as iron sulphate, to an iron-limited region to stimulate phytoplankton growth.

CLIMATE CHANGEWe have been working on research that looksinto how the North Atlantic Ocean has beenwarming over the last few decades. Rather than a uniform warming extending over theentire basin, we find that there are reversingpatterns of warming and cooling over the basin.For example, over the last 30 years, the highlatitude waters have been warming, thencooling and then warming again. We haverevealed how these temperature changes are controlled, sometimes a result of changingwind patterns and other times a result ofchanging ocean heat transport. This warmingof the surface waters of the Atlantic Ocean isimportant for us. It leads to the atmosphereholding more moisture and probablycontributes to wetter summers in the UK.

Research in contextThe University of Liverpool is a research-intensiveuniversity, and many of our academic staff are leadingresearchers 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.

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The findings from this study contribute to ourunderstanding of the global carbon cycle andhave implications for potential ways ofmitigating rising levels of carbon dioxide.

For more information about our research in Ocean Sciences, please go towww.liverpool.ac.uk/environment-sciences/research

Over the past 20 years, a number of theseexperiments have been carried out in theSouthern Ocean to investigate the potential tofix and store carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gasresponsible for global climate change. So far,the experiments were inconclusive. However, arecent study involving an Ocean Scientist fromLiverpool was the first to demonstrate that aphytoplankton bloom generated by the additionof iron can sink to the seafloor, taking with it thecarbon it has absorbed.

Graduate

Profile

We insurelarge 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 propertyand the occupancy (eg hotel, hospital, school etc.) and run this through the models to price the accounts.

Studying Ocean Sciences gave me meteorologicalknowledge that is required for my job role. I need to be able to understand how weathersystems form and theenvironmentalparameters which can cause weathersystems to intensify from a tropical depression into ahurricane. We use hurricane, tornado, earthquake, floodand tsunami models and my mathematical knowledgehas helped me understand these. During my time atLiverpool I participated in many team work activitiessuch as a three day sea practical to Oban, the team workactivities developed my team working skills so that I can work efficiently with others to get the work done.

KATIE MCLOUGHLINMATHEMATICS WITH OCEAN AND CLIMATE STUDIES, GRADUATED 2010A Lloyds syndicate property insurance


QUALIFYING YOU FOR LIFEOur research funding organisation, the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC),recently performed a study to identify criticalskills 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 theenvironment sector were; computer modelling,multi- disciplinarily, data management,numeracy, communication and fieldwork.

Our degree programmes are designed toprovide Ocean Sciences students with all ofthese skills through training in industry standardsoftware for modelling and data management,development of quantitative and communicationskills and opportunities for at-sea trainingthroughout the degree programme.

Skills Review 2010, Natural EnvironmentResearch Council, www.nerc.ac.uk/funding/available/postgrad/skillsreview

CAREER PROSPECTSWe have close links with the NationalOceanography Centre in Liverpool. The vast majority of our recent graduates gainemployment within a degree-related field or continue within further education ongraduation. Skills gained by our students during their degree programmes are critical to the environment sector.

WORK EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIESEach year, the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool offers at least onecompetitive 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 EMPLOYERSRecent employers include:

British Oceanographic Data CentreEnvironment AgencyBermuda Institute of Ocean SciencesLloyds (property insurance)Arcus Renewable Energy Consulting LtdVerdErg Connectors Limited

POSTGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIESMore than 40% of our students go on to further study on Masters or PhD programmes in the UK and abroad.

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An investment in your futureThere has never been a better time to study Ocean Sciences.

See what Will had to say about studying Oceans,Climate and Physical Geography at Liverpool www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/video

It inspires you to have lecturers who are world classresearchers. You learn how to do science rather thanwhat it is. Also, the National Oceanography Centrehas a base in Liverpool, so this is a very research-based programme. The lecturers are veryapproachableand the Central TeachingLaboratories are a really useful resource.WILL JOHNSTONOCEANS, CLIMATE AND PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY BSC (HONS)

FIELDWORK OPPORTUNITIESOcean Sciences degree programmes includefieldwork taught by scientists who regularlyspend time at sea collecting data for theirresearch. In Year One, students are taught thebasic skills in fieldwork and sampling at sea. InYear Two, students use their skills in sampling to study the local coastal environment on boardthe RV Marisa, the Universitys own researchvessel. In Year Three, students participate in a seven day field course during which theyspend three days at sea around Oban inScotland on the RV Calanus. Students collectsamples and data and make observations inorder to understand the chemical, biological and physical characteristics of the coastalenvironment and how they interact. Studentscan also conduct fieldwork in the local marineenvironment using the RV Marisa as part of their major research project in the final year.

WHICH DEGREEOcean sciences is the study of how the oceanaffects the climate, the cycling of chemicalelements and how life is sustained on our planet.It involves the application of fundamentalphysical, chemical and biological principles to the marine environment. We offer three-yearBSc (Hons) programmes in Ocean and ClimateSciences in combination with Mathematics,Physics, Chemistry and Physical Geography, as well as in Marine Biology with Oceanography,which focuses on the interaction betweenbiological 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 programmesinvolve fieldwork at sea and are offered incollaboration with the National OceanographyCentre, Liverpool.

HOW YOU LEARNTeaching takes place through lectures,practicals, workshops, seminars, tutorials and computer-based learning, with anemphasis on learning through doing. Thenew Central Teaching Laboratory opened in 2012 provides a state-of-the-art facility for undergraduate practical work.

Students value the learning opportunitiesprovided by field classes, including the rapidfeedback on performance. Students typicallyreceive approximately 15 hours of formalteaching each week, and participate in between30 and 80 hours of residential field courseseach year depending on the discipline. A typicalmodule might involve two-three one hourlectures each week, and often a three-hourlaboratory or computer-based practical as well.

Tutorials typically involve groups of four to sevenstudents meeting with a member of staff at leastevery two weeks in Year One and Two. In YearThree, students undertake an Honours project,which is a piece of independent research (field,laboratory or data analysis) on a topic of theirchoice, supervised by a member of staff.Students in Year Three meet with their projectsupervisor 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.



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Programme detailsDegreesataGlance UCAS Code Length (Years) Page

Ocean Sciences BSc (Hons) F700 3 34

Oceans, Climate and Physical Geography BSc (Hons) FF78 3 37

Mathematics with Ocean and Climate Sciences BSc (Hons) G1F7 3 38

Marine Biology with Oceanography BSc (Hons) C1F7 3 40

Ocean Sciences MOSci (Hons) F710 4 35

Programme with a Foundation YearEarth Sciences entry route leading to BSc (Hons) F608 4 24(4 year route including a Foundation Year at Carmel College)

This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree. See www.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honours for further details.

Entrance RequirementsSee 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: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1744 452 224 www.carmel.ac.uk

Chemistry routeOrganic Chemistry IIPreparative Chemistry: Synthesis and CharacterisationMeasurements in ChemistryInorganic Chemistry II

Students on the physics pathway select one option from:

Condensed MatterClimatologyNuclear and Particle Physics

Year ThreeStudents take the following core modules:

Ocean Sciences Research projectMarine Sciences Special TopicsSea PracticalOcean DynamicsOcean Carbon Cycle

Students select two options from:

Physics routeNuclear PhysicsCoastal Environments: Spatial and Temporal ChangeClimate Change a Critical ReviewAdvanced ElectromagnetismPhysics of Life

This programme consists of two distinctpathways, 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 andsupervision of projects.

Year OneStudents take the following core modules:

Study Skills and GISClimate, Atmosphere and OceansOcean Chemistry and Life

Physics routeMathematics for Physicists INewtonian DynamicsThe Material UniverseMathematics for Physicists IIWave Phenomena

Chemistry routeIntroductory Organic ChemistryIntroductory SpectroscopyIntroductory Inorganic ChemistryIntroductory Physical Chemistry

Year TwoStudents take the following core modules:

Ocean Data AnalysisExperimental Physical OceanographyLife in a Dynamic Ocean Marine Biogeochemical Cycles: from theory to practice

Physics routeElectromagnetismMathematics for Physicists IIIMathematics for Physicists IV

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Ocean Sciences BSc (Hons)UCAS code: F700Programme length: 3 years

Ocean Sciences enquiries:[email protected]

The marine environment is a dynamic,heterogeneous and biologically diverse systemthat is driven by a combination of physical andchemical processes. It experiences extremes of temperature, pressure and salinity and isoften impacted by catastrophic events (bothnatural and manmade) that can influencethousands of square kilometres of surfaceocean and sea floor. The oceans moderate andrespond to climate change, with variations inoceanic conditions affecting life in the oceansand potentially causing further global change.

PROGRAMME CONTENTThis degree programme will provide anunderstanding of the key drivers in the marinesystem, through exploration of physical andbiogeochemical processes. It will focus onpractical aspects of marine science and willprovide grounding in hands on quantitativestudies of chemical and physical marinescience. There will be the opportunity toparticipate in field/project work using theUniversitys research vessel throughout thecourse of your studies, as well as a full seapractical using other UK marine facilities during Year Three. You will undertake a major research project in your final year.

Chemistry routeInorganic Chemistry IIIOrganic Chemistry IIIChemical Database SkillsCoastal Environments: Spatial and Temporal ChangeClimate Change a Critical ReviewInorganic Applications of Group Theory

This subject can be taken as part of a Combined Honours degree. Seewww.liverpool.ac.uk/combined-honoursfor further details.

Ocean Sciences MOSciUCAS code: F710Programme length: 4 years


The marine environment plays an integral part in regulating our climate and cycling chemicalelements and supports more than half of globalbiological productivity. Yet there remain manymajor 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 temperatureand carbon dioxide on the microbes living in the ocean? This newly developed four-yearMasters 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 withscientists from the National OceanographyCentre (Liverpool), who are international leadersin sea level science and shelf sea physics.

PROGRAMME CONTENTThe first three years follow BSc (Hons) degreeprogrammes offered in Ocean Sciences, withspecific pathways in Mathematics, Chemistry,Biology, Physics, and Geography. Semesterone of Year Four is focused on developing your knowledge and skills in laboratorytechniques and data analysis, writing andreviewing research ideas, and discussingcurrent research issues in ocean science.Modules highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of Ocean Sciences are offered.

Training in semester one will provide you with the skills to conduct an independentresearch project in semester two, which will be supervised by Ocean Scientists from theUniversity and the National OceanographyCentre 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.

PROGRAMME CONTENTYour training will cover core topics inOceanography, Physical Geography, Geology and Ecology as well as modules in IT and Communication Skills. There will bethe opportunity to participate in field/project work using the Universitys research vesselthroughout 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 OceanographyCentre in Liverpool provide guest lectures and supervision of projects. Students withoutmathematics, physics or chemistry at A level will be required to take remedial courses.


Study Skills and GISClimate, Atmosphere and OceansOcean Chemistry and LifeExperiments in Physical Geography IILiving with Environmental Change

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Study skills and GISClimate, Atmosphere and OceansOcean Chemistry and Life Biology route


Ocean Data AnalysisExperimental Physical OceanographyLife in a Dynamic Ocean Marine Biogeochemical Cycles: from Theory to Practice


Sea PracticalMarine Sciences Special TopicsOcean Sciences Research ProjectOcean DynamicsOcean Carbon Cycle

For required and optional modules for specificroutes in Years One, Two and Three, please see the following:

Biology route: C1F7 Marine Biology withOceanographyChemistry route: F700 Ocean SciencesGeography route: FF78 Oceans, Climate and Physical GeographyMathematics route: G1F7 Mathematics with Ocean and Climate SciencesPhysics Route: F700 Ocean Sciences

Year FourStudents take the following core modules:

Ocean Sciences Masters Research ProjectData analysis of Environmental RecordsOcean ModelsOcean Biogeochemical CyclesOcean and Climate Sciences

Students can choose one optional module from a range of Masters Level modules fromacross the School.

Oceans, Climate and PhysicalGeography BSc (Hons)UCAS code: FF78Programme length: 3 years


The way that the Earth behaves as a systemresults from interactions between the land, the oceans and the atmosphere. Complexissues 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. Whilethe Ocean Sciences deal with present day andfuture climate change scenarios, the link tophysical geography provides an understandingof changes in climate over the last severalthousand years to provide context for recentclimate change. This was the first UK universityprogramme to combine land, ocean andclimate studies in an integrated programme of study.


Ocean Data AnalysisExperimental Physical OceanographyLife in a Dynamic OceanMarine Biogeochemical Cycles: from Theory to PracticeOrdinary Differential EquationsVector CalculusMethods of Applied Mathematics

Students select one option from:

ClimatologyClassical MechanicsNumerical Analysis and Linear Equations


Ocean Sciences Research ProjectMarine Sciences Special TopicsSea PracticalOcean DynamicsOcean Carbon CycleFurther Methods of Applied Mathematics


Climate Change a Critical ReviewChaos and Dynamics SystemsPopulation DynamicsCoastal Environments: Spatial and Temporal Change

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Ocean Sciences Research projectMarine Sciences Special TopicsSea PracticalOcean DynamicsOcean Carbon CycleCoastal Environments: Spatial and Temporal Change


Evolution, Oceans and ClimateFluvial EnvironmentsClimate Change a Critical Review

Mathematics with Ocean andClimate Sciences BSc (Hons)UCAS code: G1F7Programme length: 3 years


Predicting climate and climate change is amajor challenge facing the scientific community.The oceans regulate the climate of the planetthrough storing and transporting heat as well as modifying properties of the overlyingatmosphere. Complex issues such as climatechange and sea level rise can only be fullyunderstood if the role of the ocean andatmosphere is fully appreciated. This degreeprovides an understanding of how the ocean and atmosphere operate in the climate system, as well as offering a stronggrounding in mathematics.

It is offered in collaboration between theDepartment of Mathematics in the School of Physical Sciences and the internationallyrenowned National Oceanography Centre inLiverpool, providing excellent preparation forcareers in computer modelling in oceanography,meteorology or environmental monitoring.

PROGRAMME CONTENTStudents acquire a broad knowledge of mathematics and the analytical andnumerical techniques for solving problems, and the ability to apply those techniques withconfidence. Students gain an understanding of how the climate system behaves, how theatmosphere 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 OneStudy Skills and GIS Climate, Atmosphere and OceansOcean Chemistry and LifeCalculus IIntroduction to Linear AlgebraIntroduction to StatisticsCalculus IIDynamic Modelling

Students select three options from:

Maths and Physics for EnvironmentalScientistsIntroduction to Sedimentary Rocks and FossilsEnvironmental ChemistryEcology and ConservationExperiments in Physical Geography IChanges in Earth Surface ProcessesAn introduction to Marine Ecosystems


Ocean Data AnalysisExperimental Physical OceanographyLife in a Dynamic OceanMarine Biogeochemical Cycles: from Theory to PracticeEnvironmental ChangeGeomorphology: Ice, Sea and AirClimatology


Human Impact on Marine EcosystemsCatchment HydrologyStatistics for Environmental ScientistsPrinciples and Theory in GeographySoils, Slopes and the EnvironmentPalaeobiology and Evolution

Throughout the degree, there is a strong emphasis on marine sustainability and ecosystem management, marinebiogeochemistry, 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 andinterpretation: the essential skills requiredto be a successful marine scientist.

PROGRAMME CONTENTThroughout the three-year programme, core modules in Marine Biology and OceanSciences will provide you with observational,analytical and numerical skills. You will also have a choice of optional modules from withinthe School of Environmental Science and theSchool of Life Sciences.

In the final year, students take advancedmodules in an area of interest, and spend alarge amount of time working on a researchproject in either in Marine Biology, OceanSciences or a topic that combines the twodisciplines. The degree in Marine Biology with Oceanography at Liverpool is accreditedby the Institute of Marine Engineering, Scienceand Technology.

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Study Skills and GISClimate, Atmosphere and OceansMarine Biology: Life in the Sea and OceansOcean Chemistry and LifeLaboratory and Field Techniques for Marineand Terrestrial EcologistsMarine Ecosystems: Diversity, Processes and Threats


Maths and Physics for EnvironmentalScientistsEvolution and BiodiversityMicrobiologyEcology and ConservationApplied Genetics and MolecularTechnologiesEnvironmental Chemistry


Research Skills in EcologyExperimental Physical OceanographyHuman Impacts on Marine EcosystemsMarine Ecology Field StudiesPhysiology, Behaviour and Ecology of Marine OrganismsLife in a Dynamic Ocean


Statistics for Environmental ScientistsMarine Biology Practical SkillsKey Skills for Ocean ScientistsMarine Biochemical Cycles: from Theory to PracticeAdvanced Techniques in Zoology


Ocean Sciences Research Project orHonours Project Marine BiologyMarine Biology: Contemporary Issues or Sea Practical Marine Sciences Special Topics

Students select four options from:

Ocean DynamicsSurviving the Marine Environment:Adaptation Behaviour and ConservationOcean Carbon CycleMarine Ecology and ManagementConservation BiologyAdvanced Topics in EcologyCoastal Environments: Spatial and Temporal ChangeConservation BiologyClimate Change a Critical ReviewMarine Ecology: From the Palaeozic to the Future Ocean



Marine Biology with Oceanography BSc (Hons)UCAS code: C1F7Programme length: 3 years


Understanding the physical and chemicalfactors that control the distribution, growth and success of marine organisms, frommicroscopic plants to commercially importantfish, is vital for sustaining and managing adiverse and healthy marine ecosystem. You will study the interaction between the biology of individuals, populations and communities,the composition and properties of seawaterand the physical processes that transportseawater and its contents.

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Our research into the vulnerability of marinespecies and habitats to fishing and coastaldevelopment is used by British and Europeangovernment agencies such as the Departmentfor Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and theInternational Council for the Exploration of theSea to develop sustainable management plans.

Another hot topic we are currently studying is the impact of burning upland vegetation on ecosystem carbon storage, water qualityand biodiversity.

Field teaching. Field teaching is at the centre of learning in all years, because it givesstudents an understanding of the naturalenvironment that cannot be achieved in theclassroom alone. Our residential field courselocations currently include Wales, Scotland and Ireland but we also regularly get out into the local area around Merseyside, Cheshire,Lancashire and North Wales.

As part of the Universitys on-goingcommitment to the environment, we havecreated a new School of EnvironmentalSciences, which covers all aspects of theenvironment, from geology and oceanographyto terrestrial, freshwater and marine biology,physical and human geography, and planning.

The School provides a range of programmesand a diversity of module choices which givestudents the ability to gain multi-disciplinaryskills, essential in todays job market.

WHY CHOOSE ECOLOGY AND MARINEBIOLOGY AT LIVERPOOL?World-leading research. Liverpool has a long history of research in Ecology and MarineBiology. This research is increasingly beingused to help solve environmental problems.

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 studentsare allocated a personal tutor for every year of study. Your tutor will guide and support youthroughout your time at university and help toprepare you for the next step in your career.

International experience.All of our studentscan undertake an independent study visitoverseas. This exposes students to workingpractices and culture in other countries andgives them a chance to gain work experienceand expand their network of contacts. Many of our students take the chance to studyabroad during their second year with one of our exchange partners such as Lund Universityin Sweden or Monash University in Australia.Optional overseas field courses to Uganda and California are exciting opportunities toexplore new ecosystems.

Excellent facilities. Liverpool has investedheavily in teaching facilities. The BiologyTeaching Centre was recently given a completerefurbishment, and our custom-built researchvessel Marisa was delivered in 2009.Theaward-winning Central Teaching Laboratories,opened in 2012, provide state-of-the-artfacilities and equipment for practical work, field work and analytical skills such asGeographical Information Systems (GIS).Liverpool is one of two hosting partners for theNational Oceanography Centre (NOC). Locatedin the adjacent building, NOC help in particularwith research-led teaching in the final year.

HOW YOU LEARNTeaching strategies include a mix of lectures,tutorials, workshops, field classes, researchvessel cruises, laboratory work, computersessions, 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 alaboratory or computer-based practical as well.

Tutorials typically involve groups of five-sevenstudents meeting with a member of staff everyother week (in Years One and Two) or at leastthree times a semester (in Year Three).

As they progress through their degree, students are increasingly challenged to engage with current debates, to think criticallyand to study independently. All students do an Honours Project throughout the year inYear Three, which is a piece of independentresearch (field, lab or data analysis) on a topic of their choice, supervised by a member ofacademic staff. Students on the four-yearIntegrated 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 ASSESSEDAssessment matches the learning objectivesfor each module and may take the form ofwritten exams, coursework submissions in the form of essays, scientific papers, briefingnotes or lab/field notebooks, oral and posterpresentations and contributions to groupprojects.

STUDY ABROADAs part of your degree you may have theopportunity to study abroad. Studying abroad has huge personal and academicbenefits, as well as giving you a head start in the graduate job market. Current opportunitiesinclude the University of Lund, Sweden,through the Erasmus programme, as well as a number of our worldwide exchangepartnerships. For more information, visitwww.liverpool.ac.uk/goabroad


EEccoollooggyy aannddMMaarriinnee BBiioollooggyyLiverpool was the first UK university to offer a degree inMarine Biology, and is an established leader in Ecology.We are part of the School of Environmental Sciencesand share close links with Ocean Sciences, Geography,Earth Sciences and the School of Life Sciences.


The Gormley statues provided a novel way of exploring the influence of such factors which vary across the different part

Earth,,Ocean,And,Ecological,Sciences

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