The Master of Science (MSc) programme enables you to pursue advanced study in your area of interest with the opportunity to work on independent research. Programme overview Studying for an MSc is an opportunity for committed scientists to focus on a relevant area of interest or practise and pursue an advanced qualification. While taught masters will provide you with specialist training in your chosen field, a research masters will develop advanced research skills, working alongside Faculty of Science researchers - many of whom are major contributors in their field. 120-point MSc Most students enter an MSc following completion of a PGDipSci. You will need to complete 120 points (maximum of 160 points) in a specialisation within one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study (research masters) or four years of part-time study (taught masters). Not all specialisations offer both taught and research options. 240-point MSc If you enter a MSc directly from an undergraduate degree you will need to complete 240 points (maximum of 280 points) in a specialisation in two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study (research masters) or six years of part-time study (taught masters). Not all specialisations offer both taught and research options. Earth Sciences Earth Sciences is the study of planet Earth. It is a diverse science and includes the study of the history of the planet and its life forms since its origin, the materials that the Earth is made of, the processes that act on these materials, and the products formed through these processes. Earth Sciences considers the physical forces that act on the Earth, the chemistry of its constituent materials, and the biology of its past inhabitants as revealed by fossils. Geological investigations span a broad spectrum, from the microscopic to those of planetary dimensions. The School of Environment offers a wide variety of courses at postgraduate level. These cover a diverse range of subject matter including, but not limited to, volcanology, geothermal energy, paleo-climates and -environments, economic geology, natural hazards, applied geophysics and the various rock and mineral forming processes. Study at postgraduate level requires significant student commitment and a high degree of self motivation. Career opportunities A degree in Geology provides the holder with excellent career opportunities, both locally and internationally. Virtually every graduate from the Geology Department can find employment in the field of geology. The Geology Department has a reputation for producing superior, well-rounded geology graduates with a broad range of geological knowledge and skills. Graduates of the Geology Department have found employment world-wide and in virtually every geological discipline. Other opportunities There are many and varied opportunities for graduates with a geological background, or with geology as part of their degree. Any industry that utilises earth materials requires a degree of geological input, e.g. steel, ceramics, power generation, construction, quarrying, etc. Opportunities also exist in teaching, law, commerce, architecture, engineering, etc., for graduates with some geological background in their degree. Requirements: 120 points: EARTHSCI 796 MSc Thesis in Earth Sciences