University of Bristol United Kingdom

BSc Palaeontology and Evolution

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a journey through Earth's deep past with the BSc Palaeontology and Evolution at the University of Bristol. This undergraduate degree is for you if you are fascinated by the history of life, from the earliest single-celled organisms to the complex ecosystems of today. You will explore the fossil record, understanding how life has changed over millions of years and the forces that have driven evolution. This programme provides a robust grounding in both geology and biology, equipping you with the scientific literacy to address critical questions about biodiversity, extinction events, and the co-evolution of life and our planet.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over three years, immersing you in core concepts through units like Dynamic Earth, Diversity of Life, and Evolutionary Biology. You will develop practical skills in palaeobiology and palaeoenvironments, alongside quantitative and computational methods essential for modern scientific research. In your final year, you will undertake a significant research project and explore specialist areas such as Evolutionary Palaeobiology or Vertebrate Palaeobiology and Biomechanics. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, museums, environmental consultancy, and further postgraduate study, armed with a unique understanding of life's history.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive study of palaeontology and evolution, beginning with foundational earth science principles and the diversity of life. Students will delve into topics such as Earth's dynamic processes, its evolutionary history, and the fundamental concepts of physics and chemistry relevant to earth sciences. Subsequent years focus on advanced subjects including earth deformation, the evolution of surface environments, palaeobiology, and quantitative methods, alongside a deeper exploration of evolutionary biology and ecology.

1 Year 1 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Physics and chemistry for earth scientists Mandatory
Skills for earth scientists Mandatory
Dynamic earth Mandatory
Earth's evolution Mandatory
Diversity of life part A Mandatory
Diversity of life part B Mandatory

2 Year 2 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Earth deformation Mandatory
Evolution of the surface environment Mandatory
Palaeobiology and palaeoenvironments Mandatory
Ecology and conservation Mandatory
Evolutionary biology Mandatory
Quantitative and computational methods Mandatory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,308.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,308.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 42,308.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 126,924.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace ManufacturingBiotechnology & GenomicsData Science & AnalyticsEnergy Storage & TechnologyEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesForestry & LoggingMaritime & ShippingMental Health & CounselingPharmacovigilance & Drug SafetySatellite Communications

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Airbus

AstraZeneca

BP Plc

Babcock international Group

Bristol Racing

Bristol Robotics Laboratory

Environment Agency

GE Aerospace

Why Study BSc Palaeontology and Evolution at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Palaeontology and Evolution at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English test requirements. For example, TOEFL requires a minimum overall score of 88 with specific sub-scores, while IELTS requires an overall score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Palaeontologists, Environmental Consultants, Research Scientists, Museum Curators, or Education Officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Join a University ranked #2 in the UK for 'Earth systems and environmental sciences' research (THE analysis of REF 2021).Develop an understanding of the evolution of life on this planet through the study of geology and biology.Learn from experts, with interests ranging from dinosaurs to plants to the origin of life, and become fully immersed in hands-on palaeontology from the start.

One third of the first year is dedicated to biology and two thirds to earth science. After the first

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Palaeontology and Evolution program starts in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead to join this exciting course.
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