BSc (Hons) Geology (Volcanology)

Set in 600 acres of countryside in North Staffordshire, we have one of the largest and most beautiful campuses in Britain. We’re proud to be No.2 in England for Student Satisfaction with Course (Guardian University League Table, 2020), investing more than £140m in our campus in the last ten years, including £45m new science laboratories. In 2021 we were proud to be awarded Sustainability Institution of the Year at the prestigious Green Gown Awards as part of our mission to become a carbon neutral campus by 2030. We're committed to supporting you to achieve your career goals, and have a dedicated Careers and Employability team who can assist you to navigate your options beyond Keele.If you are interested in the geological processes that have shaped our planet, as well as the natural beauty and the formidable powers of volcanoes, and are keen to understand what makes volcanoes tick, the Geology (Volcanology) pathway at Keele is perfect for you. This course is based on the Single Honours Geology course combined with a range of compulsory volcanology modules. You will share the excitement of delving into the inner workings of volcanoes, from magma generation in the deep Earth to the amazing variety of volcanic eruptions, and learn about the effects of volcanoes on society from hazards to climate change.Geology examines global change over the whole history of our planet, and understanding these changes is relevant in our present time more than ever to ensure a sustainable future for the human population on Earth.You will learn about the fundamental processes shaping our planet, from the formation of minerals and rocks to the occurrence of natural resources. In our comprehensive and integrated fieldwork programme, you will learn how to map and interpret geological features. Problem-solving laboratory classes will provide you with essential skills in identifying Earth materials and interpreting geological data as well as skills in communication and presentation.This course particularly focusses on volcanology, and you will learn to carry out your own research using specialist field techniques, equipment and software. Our staff are active researchers working at the frontiers of current volcanological research. All of our single honours students are offered a work placement module in year 2.You will acquire a wide range of transferable skills, including communication, decision-making and problem-solving skills, and the ability to research, evaluate and synthesise information from diverse sources.