Geology with Palaeontology University of Leicester

Overview

Palaeontology addresses how the origin and evolution of life is intricately linked with the geological history of the Earth. Through the fossil record you will explore topics such as evolutionary diversity, exceptional preservation and palaeoclimates.

You will cover key groups of invertebrate fossils, vertebrate fossils and microfossils, investigating major concepts such as the origin of life, patterns of evolution and extinction, the importance of exceptional fossil assemblages, and the relationship between ecology and evolution.

You will also learn about the geological context in which fossils occur. This includes the environments where fossils became preserved, the age of the rocks that contain them, and biases resulting from geological processes. 

Also, by choosing the Geology with Palaeontology degree when you apply, you will be assigned to a personal tutor who is a specialist in the field. 

In the second year at the University of Leicester , you will develop your skills and understanding across the geosciences, and start to specialise through a bespoke palaeontology module on major events in the history of life, and by choosing a palaeontological focus for your independent fieldwork.

Careers and employability

• Geology graduates are highly competitive in the job market as their degrees provide them with a strong set of subject-specific and transferable skills, suited to a range of different sectors. 

• Career directions particularly include renewable energy, sustainable resource extraction and environmental geology. 

• As well as studying topics that consider the major global challenges of the 21st century, our graduates are able to demonstrate key skills in teamwork, communication, resilience, planning, and problem solving.

Key statistics

• 95% of graduates in work or further study after 15 months.

• More than 50 companies are actively involved with Geology at Leicester, from funding major research projects to work experience opportunities.

• Geology graduate employers include: Environment Agency, Network Rail, The British Museum, BP, Rio Tinto, British Gypsum, RSK, Jacobs, Hydrock, Zeiss, The Civil Service, Capita, The Government of South Australia, Isle of Man Government.