The degree courses offered by the Department are intended to give all students as much flexibility as possible, while retaining the core Earth Science subjects. Individual degree courses are comprised of modules, and students take a total of six modules (120 credits) in each academic year. In the first year you will be introduced to major topics in the Earth Sciences, the practical skills required to study rocks and fossils in the field and study skills. We encourage all first-year students to participate in the Durham Award, allowing you to demonstrate you have the skills necessary to succeed in future employment. In year two you will deepen your understanding of these topics. A key part of this year is to gain the knowledge and skills required to undertake your Dissertation. In year three a mix of compulsory and elective modules allow you to specialise and study topics at the cutting-edge of Earth Sciences. The MSci Earth Sciences course allows those with an aptitude to make the first steps to a research career. The majority of our degrees are accredited by the Geological Society of London, this gives you the assurance our teaching is of the highest quality, has been approved by an independent body of academics and industrialists and provides a fast track to Chartered Geologist status.