University Of Leicester United Kingdom

Geology with Palaeontology with a Year in Industry MGeol

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 5 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the Geology with Palaeontology with a Year in Industry MGeol at the University of Leicester, a comprehensive programme designed for those fascinated by Earth's ancient past and its profound connection to geological processes. This master's-level degree is ideal for students eager to explore the origins and evolution of life through the fossil record, understanding how palaeobiology intersects with environmental change and geological history. You will delve into critical areas such as evolutionary diversity, exceptional preservation, and palaeoclimates, gaining a deep appreciation for how fossils inform our understanding of past ecosystems and current environmental challenges.

This full-time, on-campus MGeol degree spans five years, integrating foundational geoscience with specialist palaeontology. Your learning journey will involve extensive field skills training in diverse locations, including Spain and Wales, alongside laboratory analysis and core modules covering everything from magmatic processes to the geological application of microfossils. A significant component is your independent field-based project and a research-focused dissertation, allowing you to pursue a topic of personal interest. You will graduate with masters-level expertise and practical experience from your year in industry, prepared for careers in geological surveying, environmental consultancy, research, and museum curation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MGeol program provides a comprehensive foundation in geology, integrating the study of ancient life through palaeontology. You will explore Earth's dynamic processes, from the rock cycle and plate tectonics to the history of life and natural resources. The curriculum includes extensive field training, covering diverse geological settings and developing essential mapping and analytical skills. A significant component of this degree is a year spent in industry, offering invaluable practical experience before your final year of advanced study and research.

1 Year 1

First Year Tutorials
The Rock Cycle – Our Dynamic Earth (double module)
Micro to Macro: From Rock Properties to Plate Tectonics
Palaeobiology and the Stratigraphic Record
Natural Resources and Energy for the 21st Century
Geological Maps and Structures
Introductory Field Course (Arran)

2 Year 2

Geological Field Skills (Spain, Anglesey and a field skills training trip)
Magmatic and Metamorphic Processes
Major Events in the History of Life
Climate Change: Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation
Introduction to Geochemistry
Structure and Tectonics
Depositional Processes and Environments

3 Year 3

Independent Field-Based Project
Diversity and Evolution of Vertebrates
The Forensic, Archaeological and Geological Application of Microfossils
Environmental Geoscience
Crustal Dynamics
Water Quality Processes and Management
Earth Science in Education
Planetary Science
Mineral Exploration, Economics and Sustainability
The Mining Lifecycle Field Course – Cornwall
Key Events in the Evolution of Planet Earth Viewed Through the Geological Lens of Wales - a field course
Physical Volcanology
Stable Isotopes in the Environment
River Dynamics

4 Final Year

Hot Topics
Research Project (Palaeobiology)
Evolutionary Palaeobiology
Advanced Field Course
Anthropogenic Impact on the Urban Environment
Igneous Petrogenesis
Fundamentals of GIS
R for Data Science
Living the Anthropocene
Climate of the Future, the View from the Past

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,159.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,159.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,159.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,159.00
Fifth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,159.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 140,799.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 624.00 - USD 867.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,611.00 - USD 12,179.00
Estimated Total USD 5,800.00 - USD 18,623.00

Living cost estimates are based on Leicester Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Commercial & Industrial ConstructionCreative & ContentElectrical & Mechanical InstallationHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionProject & Construction ManagementQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationRefining & Petrochemicals

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AstraZeneca

Birmingham law society

JLL

Jacobs

Why Study Geology with Palaeontology with a Year in Industry MGeol at University Of Leicester

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Moderate Application response time

University Of Leicester typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University Of Leicester 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 Geology with Palaeontology with a Year in Industry MGeol at University Of Leicester

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, with full-time options during breaks.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Geological Society of London.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To qualify for this course, you'll need specific English test scores. Duolingo requires a minimum overall score of 105, while IELTS mandates an overall score of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as a Palaeontologist, Geologist, Field Technician, Research Scientist, or Museum Curator.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Geology with Palaeontology degree explores evolutionary diversity and exceptional preservation through fossil records. You'll engage in research and understand the geological context that shapes fossil findings.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course starts in September, allowing you to immerse yourself in geology and palaeontology from the beginning of the academic year.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️