In Geology you will study our planet’s evolution, understanding how it first formed, how it has changed over billions of years, and predicting what it will be like in the future. You will develop and apply key scientific and transferable skills to answer fundamental questions in earth science such as: Why is our planet able to sustain life? How does the Earth’s interior work, and how do processes affect the surface? How can we sustainably manage earth resources? Can we predict and mitigate the effects of global climate change? Can natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions be predicted?
You will develop key geological skills and cover core topics in modern geology. A strong emphasis is placed on fieldwork, with residential trips to the Lake District, various localities in north-west Scotland, Spain and Cyprus, as well as numerous one-day trips throughout. You will also progress a range of transferable skills, including report writing, oral presentations, data analysis and interpretation, critical thinking, group working and, as the programme progresses, the ability to work independently and manage project work. |
These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
The typical offer is likely to be:
• SQA Highers: AAAA.
• A Levels: AAA.
• IB: 37 points with 555 at HL.
Minimum entry requirements
• SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S5 or ABBBB/AABB from S4-S6, to include two of Biology*, Chemistry*, Geography, Geology, Mathematics* and Physics* (*include at least one). National 5 Mathematics at Grade A; if you achieved a Grade B, please contact the admissions advisor.
• A Levels: ABB required in one sitting, to include two from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, Geology. GCSE Mathematics at Grade A; if you achieved a Grade B, please contact the admissions advisor.
• IB: 32 points overall and award of IB Diploma with 555 at HL to include two of Biology*, Chemistry*, Mathematics*, Physics*, Geology or Geography (*include at least one). Diploma must include Mathematics SL 5, if not held at HL. If you do not have SL Maths please contact the admissions advisor. |
| Additional Admission Requirements: | You must provide evidence that your written and spoken English is at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.
If English is not your first language, you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your spoken and written English:
• IELTS Academic module overall 6.5 with 5.5 in each component
• TOEFL iBT 92 or above with 20 in each section
• Cambridge English: Advanced & Proficiency overall 176 with 162 in each component
• Pearson Test of English (Academic): Total 61 with at least 51 in each "Communicative Skills" section
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with a distinction in all four components
SQA and GCSE
For SQA and GCSE students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:
• SQA National 5 Grade C
• SQA Standard Grade 3
• SQA Intermediate 1 Grade A
• SQA Intermediate 2 Grade C
• GCSE Grade C
• IB Standard Level Grade 4 |
* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.