Geology with a Foundation Year (BSC)
- Subject areas: Earth and environmental sciences, Geology and geoscience
- UCAS code: F611
- Next intake: September 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode: Full time
Why study this course
Explore the structure, evolution and dynamics of Earth and its natural mineral and energy resources. Find out how processes such as landslides, earthquakes, floods and volcanic eruptions change the world around us.
Local connections
Based in the same building as the Welsh office of the British Geological Survey and next door to the National Museum of Wales.
Fieldwork opportunities
We take regular field trips in the UK and an overseas trip to help you develop strong fieldwork skills. The cost of transport and accommodation is included in your course fee.
Your degree, your choice
Join any one of our Geology programmes on successful completion of the foundation year.
Skills society needs
Professionally accredited
Accredited by the Geological Society, the professional body for geosciences in the UK.
This four-year integrated programme explores the structure, evolution and dynamics of Earth and its natural mineral and energy resources.
This Foundation Year provides a supportive route into university study enabling you to progress into any of our Geology, Exploration Geology, and Environmental Geoscience degrees.
The flexibility we offer means you have the option to extend your degree by an additional year by switching to an MSci before the end of your second year (subject to academic achievement) or choosing a degree with a year of study abroad.
To find solutions to some of the biggest problems facing our planet today we need to understand the Earth’s history and processes. By choosing one of our Geology programmes, you will learn how rocks and minerals form, how landscapes evolve, how life has changed over geological time, and what causes natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes and floods.
These programmes combine scientific knowledge with practical skills, helping you understand both the Earth's past and its future. You will investigate how geological processes create the natural resources that modern society depends on, including metals, minerals and energy resources, while also exploring how these resources can be found and used responsibly. You will also examine environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, hazard resilience and sustainable development.
A strong emphasis is placed on hands-on learning. Throughout your studies, you will develop skills in fieldwork, mapping, data collection, analysis, research and problem-solving. You will gain experience using modern industry software, datasets and specialist equipment, preparing you to make informed decisions in professional settings. Field trips are an important part of the learning experience, with visits across South Wales to explore its rich geological heritage, landscapes, industrial history and former mining areas. Students may also have opportunities to take part in overseas field courses.
These degrees have been developed in collaboration with industry to ensure graduates gain the specialist skills employers are looking for. Strong links with professional organisations provide opportunities for placements, mentoring and career development. Whether you are interested in understanding natural hazards, protecting the environment, discovering the resources needed for the future, or becoming a professional geologist or environmental geoscientist, these programmes will equip you with the knowledge, practical experience and confidence to make a positive impact on the world.
Subject area: Earth and environmental sciences
Subject area: Geology and geoscience
Entry requirements
We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as equivalent international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:
A level
CCD-CDD. Must include one science subject. Acceptable science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, ICT, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Statistics.
Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
- Our grade range covers our standard offer and contextual offer. We carefully consider the circumstances in which you've been studying (your contextual data) upon application. Eligible students will be given an offer that is lower than the standard offer (usually the middle or lower end of the advertised grade range).
- Where there is no grade range advertised and/or where there are selection processes in place (like an interview) you may receive additional consideration in the selection process.
Learn about eligible courses and how contextual data is applied.
International Baccalaureate
27-26 overall or 554-544 in 3 HL subjects. Must include one HL science subject. Acceptable science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Maths, Physics, Psychology.
Baccalaureate Wales
From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3). This qualification will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate). The qualification will continue to be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
GCSE and other essential requirements
You must have or be working towards:
- English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects.
We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements.
English language requirements
GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with a minimum of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking.
PTE Academic
At least 69 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
Criminal convictions
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.
If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement, including the ability to travel to outside of the UK or to undertake a placement/studies outside of Cardiff University
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Other qualifications from inside the UK
BTEC
MMM-MMP in a BTEC Extended Diploma in Animal Science, Applied Science, Engineering, Health Science, ICT, or Sports and Exercise Science.
T level
Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2.
Please see our admissions policies for more information about the application process.
Tuition fees for 2026 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
| Year | Tuition fee 1 | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation/ preliminary year | £9,790 | None |
| Year one | £9,790 | None |
| Year two | £9,790 | None |
| Year three | £9,790 | None |
1 Home status tuition fees are charged at the maximum fee set by the Government each year. If the tuition fee cap changes before you start your course, we’ll email you to let you know. We’ll explain any changes to your tuition fees, and allow you to withdraw without penalty if you decide not to study with us.
Tuition fees may increase for subsequent years of your course if the fee cap changes. Learn what happens if tuition fees increase.
Learn more about our tuition fees
Fees for overseas status
This course does not currently accept students from outside the UK/EU.
Financial support
Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.
Additional costs
Course specific equipment
You will need suitable clothing, including all-over waterproofs and ankle supporting walking boots for field activities. The school will provide all health and safety equipment as well as specialised field equipment.
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Living costs
We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Course structure
You’ll study for a minimum of 4 years, including your integrated foundation year.
The foundation year is designed to build confidence, academic capability and subject specific understanding through expert teaching, tailored support and an inclusive learning environment.
On successful completion of the foundation year, you’ll progress into one of our Geology programmes. Your options include:
- Geology (BSc)
- Geology (MSci)
- Geology with a Year of Study Abroad (BSc)
- Exploration Geology (BSc)
- Exploration Geology (MSci)
- Exploration Geology with a Year of Study Abroad (BSc)
- Environmental Geoscience (BSc)
- Environmental Geoscience (MSci)
- Environmental Geoscience with a Year of Study Abroad (BSc)
All of the degrees in the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences study the same first semester. After semester one you can decide whether you want to continue with your original choice or switch to one of the other degrees.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2026/2027 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2026.
Foundation/ preliminary year
The foundation year is designed to build confidence, academic capability and subject specific understanding through expert teaching, tailored support and an inclusive learning environment.
You’ll study 6 core modules of 120 credits each, carefully designed to prepare you for your chosen Geology programme.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Algebra | EN0017 | 10 credits |
| Statistics and Data | MA0502 | 20 credits |
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Project | CH0008 | 20 credits |
| Skills for Knowledge, Independence, Lifelong Learning | CH0009 | 20 credits |
| Introduction to Mechanics | EN0016 | 20 credits |
| Introduction to Calculus | EN0019 | 20 credits |
Year one
In your first year, you will study core modules designed to give you a solid foundation in the science of Geology. You will develop essential skills like mapping and surveying, microscopy and, representing data in geographical information systems (GIS).
We will go on local field trips across South Wales to build on your learning from lectures and practical classes.
All of the degrees in the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences study the same first semester. After semester one you can decide whether you want to continue with your original choice or switch to one of the other degrees.
Year two
Year two of the course you will build on knowledge from year one and started exploring more advanced concepts in your chosen subject.
We will go on residential field trips in Wales and South-West England, as well as local day trips to sites across South Wales.
In the summer between year two and three, you will do five weeks of independent research to prepare for your dissertation in year three.
You earn 120 credits for the year. This is made up of 40 and 20 credit core modules and a choice of 20 credit optional modules.
Year three
In your final year, you will have more freedom to shape your degree and choose modules that fit with your career ambitions. You will also develop essential professional skills and knowledge that all employers are looking for. You will earn 120 credits for the year and one of your core modules will include your dissertation.
You will also have the option to go on an overseas field trip that will bring together much of what you have learned throughout your course – in that past we have been to Spain and Cyprus.
If you choose to take a year of study abroad, year three will be spent at a partner institution overseas. Due to there being a limited number of places at our Exchange Partners there is a competitive selection process for these places.
Year four will then continue, on your return, as described above.
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
We are a friendly and informal school and you will be taught by world-leading experts involved in cutting-edge international research.
The School maintains a friendly and informal approach fostered by staff-student interactions in the field.
Teaching in the School is conducted by a variety of methods:
- formal lectures
- laboratory practical classes
- fieldwork
- tutorials
- independent study
Formal lectures, practical classes and tutorials emphasise that students should take ownership of their own learning programme and ‘learning how to learn’. Time for independent study reinforces this approach.
Fieldwork is a vital for understanding Geology and all students go on at least one residential field trip each academic year as well as numerous specialist day trips.
How will I be assessed?
Modules will be assessed to test knowledge and understanding through:
- practical assignments
- essay assignments
- fieldwork
- oral presentations
- mapping dissertation
- formal examinations
You will receive written feedback for written coursework assignments, oral feedback for assessed presentations.
NOTE: The University welcomes applications from students with disabilities and we may be able to offer alternative assessment methods.
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.
On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
- Systematic understanding of the multi-disciplinary nature of Geology and the need for integration of knowledge from cognate sciences.
Show knowledge and understanding, subject to a degree of student choice, on all aspects of earth system science.
Intellectual Skills:
An ability to use knowledge and scientific, evidence-based methods in data assessment and problem solving.
Professional Practical Skills:
- Practical geological skills, such as constructing a geological map and rock recognition, both in hand specimen and thin sections.
Practical skills in information technology, geographical information systems, digital geology applications, fieldwork, data and project management.
Transferable/Key Skills:
- Collection, evaluation, synthesis and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data in a variety of ways.
- The ability to work effectively in a team and as an individual.
- Effective time management and organisational skills.
Careers and placements
Career prospects
A degree in Geology gives you to access a wide range of careers that help tackle some of the world's biggest challenges. Geologists and geoscientists play a vital role in finding the resources society depends on, including water, energy and minerals, while also helping to manage environmental issues, pollution and natural hazards.
With a geology degree, you can choose to work in a variety of different roles including environmental consulting, engineering geology, hydrogeology, mineral exploration, conservation and infrastructure development. As the demand for sustainable resources, green energy and environmental protection continues to grow, so does the need for skilled geoscientists. Alongside specialist scientific knowledge, geology degrees develop practical, analytical and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers across many sectors, including finance, insurance, education and planning.
Some of our past students now work for the British Geological Survey, the Environment Agency, Digirock, Boliden Mining, Network Rail, Balfour Beatty and the engineering and mining consultancy Royal HaskoningDHV. Other graduates have gone on to work for organisations involved in environmental management, engineering, construction, mining, water services and geological research, demonstrating the broad range of opportunities available after completing a geology degree.
Placements
Any student who can secure a suitable placement with a company or organisation may transfer to our four-year programme and graduate with a BSc with a Professional Placement Year. We cannot guarantee placements as the recruitment and selection process depends on the company you are applying to. However, our dedicated placements officer will support you in finding and applying for a placement and the University’s careers service can help you with your applications, CV and interview skills.
We have found that students who complete a professional placement year return to their studies with invaluable employability skills and industry experience.
Fieldwork
Our Geology field trips 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.
We visit classic localities in Pembrokeshire, southwest England and Europe where our students learn to record observations, analyse and interpret a wide range of rocks and structures in the field and become trained in making a geological map.
Next steps
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.
