Key details
- Student types
- 16 - 18 coursesA Levels
- Course type
-
A Level course
- Course level
-
Level 3
- Start date
- Tuesday 1st September 2026
- Location
- High Pavement Sixth Form Chaucer Street, Nottingham, NG1 5LP
- Course code
- Parent course code:C000450 Child course code: Q054807
Course introduction
Do you want to study a subject that encompasses many of the Earth’s most pressing issues? Do you want a job that involves travel? Do you like problem solving? Do you enjoy practical science? If so, study Geology!
Geology is the science of the Earth; its formation, composition and structure. It deals with the past, present and future of the planet.
Geology is a branch of science concerned with structure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth. It is a very practical science which is often used all around us. Most of the materials we use were found by a geologist, most major construction work involves a geologist and even the water we drink will involve a geologist. Therefore, geology is very important to society and is not just the study of rocks!
Students taking Sciences, Geography and Maths will find that Geology complements these subjects very well and this will be part of our Sustainability pathway.
You will learn the fundamentals of geology, including elements, minerals and rocks, surface and internal processes, time and change (fossils), Earth structure and global tectonics. These fundamentals are then developed to look at rock formation and deformation, past life and past climates and natural resources. The final section consists of geological themes including geohazards, geological mapping and the geological evolution of Britain.
You can expect to learn about major scientific issues and themes including climate change, mineral resources, environmental issues, civil engineering, hazards and water supply. There is a significant focus on skills development both in the field and the classroom, with a compulsory 4 days fieldwork required over the length of the course. Skills are assessed in class and in the practical endorsement which consists of 20 required practicals. You will need to be comfortable with application of mathematical skills, use of IT and practical problem solving.
You will be encouraged to participate in a 30-hour work placement while you are studying.
Read moreCourse information
2 years
A Level Geology
5 x GCSEs 4-9 including 5 in English Language, 6 in Maths and 6 in two GCSE sciences from GCSE Chemistry, Physics or Biology or 66 in a Science triple award.
3 x exams totalling 6 hours. Paper 1: 2 hours 15 mins (35%) Paper 2: 1 hour 45 mins (30%) Paper 3: 2 hours (35%) Plus the Practical Endorsement which is an assessment of practical competency that is reported separately to the final grade. A pass in this will be required if you decide to apply for a science course at university.
Degrees or employment in Geosciences. Careers include engineering, mining, environmental consultancy, geophysics, geochemistry, palaeontology. Geology teaches many transferrable skills and many students who take Geology as an interest end up working in this sector.
Local employers include Saint Gobain (British Gypsum), Severn Trent, British Geological Survey.
Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.
If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.
Video gallery
Careers related to this course
Select career:
Environment Professionals
Potential Earnings
£53,391.64
Average Earnings
£31,563.99
Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).
Pathways
Natural Sciences
People in these occupations observe the natural order, formulate theories, run tests, and conduct experiments.
Environmental Conservation
People in these occupations coordinate environmental services, run quality tests, ensure regulatory compliance, and carry out conservation measures.
Skills
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.
