Become an Earth Scientist

Earth science is not just about rocks… 

Studying Earth science can include learning about the deep structure of the Earth (like the Deep Earth Explorers), the magnetic field, the oceans, climate change, glaciers, river systems, ancient extinct lifeforms, volcanoes and earthquakes… and much more. It can be any type of science you’re interested in, but applied to questions we have about how our planet works, across a huge range of scales, from the formation of tiny crystals, to massive flows within our planet. It can be tempting for people who love hiking and the great outdoors, but it equally needs and suits  people interested in computer programming or working in a laboratory as well.

If you think you might be interested in studying Earth Sciences at university, useful subjects to study at school might include:

  • Biology, Physics and Chemistry
  • Maths
  • Computer science
  • Geography
  • Geology

Many universities offer a range of Earth science courses including:

Earth science, Natural Sciences, Geophysics, Geology, Geology and Geophysics, Environmental Geoscience

The Geological Society is a good resource for finding accredited degree programmes, find a list here.

Have a look at what’s on offer at the University of Cambridge on the Department of Earth Sciences’ website