The department has an international reputation, and houses state-of-the-art laboratories and computing facilities. Students, teachers and visitors mix and work together. Offices and teaching labs are close together but with plenty of shared open space, so you will become part of a vibrant community. This creates an atmosphere in which a student can not only learn the basics, but also get some feel for the discoveries emerging from current research.
The diversity of the subject is reflected in the range of courses which cover processes from the EarthÕs interior, as mapped by seismic waves, to the evolution of the EarthÕs crust documented in the rocks at the surface, to ocean and atmospheric circulation, through to the evolution of life on Earth.
Typical destinations for Earth Sciences graduates include the energy industry, the environmental sector and engineering/ technical consultancies. Some enter unrelated professions, in which the analytical and problem-solving skills they have developed are highly sought after. Around 40% continue to study, through a PhD or further masterÕs course.
Martin, who graduated in 2009, works in the mining industry for De Beers Canada as a Field Geologist. He says: ÔMy Oxford degree helped me to develop the knowledge, understanding and confidence to approach geological problems in a critical and informed manner. I appreciate the courseÕs focus on both the theoretical and practical side of geology.Õ
Rachael, who graduated in 2007, works for BP as a Geoscientist. She says: ÔI am currently working as an Operations Geologist in London for a project based in North Africa. My degree gave me the technical basis for my career, but more importantly it taught me how to think out complex issues from basic principles and to motivate myself to produce the best results I can.Õ