Geological Oceanography BSc (Hons)
Bangor , United Kingdom
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Geological Oceanography
Prifysgol Bangor University
Geological Oceanography
Program Overview: Geological Oceanography BSc (Hons)
The Geological Oceanography BSc (Hons) at Bangor University focuses on the study of marine sediments within an Earth system science context. You will explore sedimentary processes including the origin, transport, and deposition of particles in the marine environment, as well as marine sediments and rocks formed over the past two million years and further back in geological time.
This program prepares you to tackle pressing global challenges such as climate and sea-level change, coastal erosion, marine pollution, waterway siltation, and offshore engineering related to renewable energy infrastructure and oil and gas exploration. Bangor University is one of the largest university centres teaching marine sciences in the UK and among the biggest in Europe, with over 50 years of geological oceanography research and training.
Upon graduation, you will possess a deep understanding of the Earth system along with a broad range of practical skills in sedimentology, geophysics, and geotechnics. The program's unique combination of these subject areas is highly valued by the offshore survey and hydrocarbon industry, and options for a Placement Year or International Experience Year are available.
Key Program Highlights
- Over 50 years of geological oceanography research heritage at one of the UK's largest marine science centres
- Unique UK combination of sedimentology, geophysics, and geotechnics training with strong offshore industry links
- Access to a fully equipped sea-going research vessel (RV Prince Madog) for hands-on fieldwork experience
- Options for a Placement Year or International Experience Year to enhance employability and global perspective
Curriculum & Modules
The Geological Oceanography BSc (Hons) curriculum is designed to build your knowledge progressively from foundational Earth and ocean sciences through to advanced specialist topics. Each year combines lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork, and ship-based modules to ensure you develop both theoretical understanding and hands-on professional skills.
Introduction to Earth System Science
20 creditsProvides a comprehensive foundation in how the Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere interact as an integrated system. You will explore fundamental geological and oceanographic principles that underpin the rest of the degree.
Marine Sedimentology
20 creditsFocuses on the origin, classification, transport, and deposition of sedimentary particles in the marine environment. You will gain practical skills in sediment grain size analysis and learn to interpret depositional environments.
Marine Geophysics
20 creditsCovers geophysical survey techniques used in offshore investigations including seismic reflection, sonar mapping, and sub-bottom profiling. Practical sessions develop your ability to acquire, process, and interpret geophysical data.
Ship-Based Field Course
20 creditsA hands-on module using Bangor's research vessel RV Prince Madog to conduct at-sea sampling and measurements. You will collect and analyse oceanographic data in the Irish Sea, integrating skills from sedimentology, geophysics, and oceanography.
Palaeoceanography and Climate Change
20 creditsExamines how marine sediment records are used to reconstruct past ocean conditions and climate variability. You will study proxy methods, ice core data, and sediment core analysis to understand long-term Earth system changes.
Geotechnical Engineering for the Offshore Sector
20 creditsIntroduces the geotechnical principles relevant to offshore site investigation, including soil mechanics, foundation design, and cable and pipeline route assessment for renewable energy and hydrocarbon infrastructure.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Bangor University welcomes applications from students worldwide and accepts a broad range of qualifications. To be considered for the Geological Oceanography BSc (Hons), you should demonstrate strong academic foundations in the sciences. All applications and enquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsBBC-BCC including grade B and grade C in two science subjects (Physics, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Environmental Science, Geography, Economics, or Psychology)
- International BaccalaureateMinimum 28-30 points overall with relevant science subjects at Higher Level
- BTEC Extended DiplomaDMM in a relevant science subject area
- Access to HE DiplomaPass in Access to HE Science diploma (similar subject areas may be considered case by case)
- International QualificationsSchool leaving qualifications equivalent to A-Levels or Level 3 from countries worldwide are accepted, subject to minimum English language requirements
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum 6.0 overall with no individual component below 5.5
- TOEFL iBTMinimum 79 overall (contact Uni4Edu for component requirements)
- Duolingo English TestContact Uni4Edu for current accepted scores
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Bangor University offers bursaries and scholarships worth over GBP 1,000,000 collectively for new and returning students. International applicants are automatically considered for several scholarship schemes when they submit their application. Contact Uni4Edu for full details on eligibility and how to maximise your funding opportunities.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000 (Year 1)Available to all international undergraduate students paying international tuition fees. No separate scholarship application is required — all applicants are automatically considered based on criteria including academic performance, personal statement, and course choice.
Bangor University Merit Scholarship
Up to GBP 10,000Awarded to high-achieving international students who demonstrate outstanding academic excellence. This partial funding scholarship recognises exceptional talent and is designed to support students throughout their studies.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Geological Oceanography BSc (Hons) are well-positioned for careers across a range of geoscience and marine sectors. There is currently a deficit of suitably qualified professionals in offshore survey and geological oceanography roles, making this degree highly valuable in the job market.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Bangor University is an established institution with over 140 years of academic heritage. It is recognised in multiple global and national ranking systems and holds a Gold Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) award, reflecting outstanding teaching quality. The university's School of Ocean Sciences is particularly renowned for its research and training in marine geosciences.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Geology | Complete University Guide | #19 in UK |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 350 |
| Agriculture & Forestry | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 150 |
| Research Excellence (REF 2021) | UK Research Excellence Framework | 85% rated world-leading or internationally excellent |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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