BSc (Honours) in Natural Sciences (Earth Sciences)
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance learning
Duration
3 - 6 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year
Application deadline
Request Info
Earliest start date
Request Info
Introduction
Earth science is the study of how our planet evolved and the forces that have shaped, and continue to shape, the earth that we live on. In this specialist route available in our BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences (Q64), you’ll learn why volcanoes occur, what fossils indicate about past environments, how the oceans regulate climate and why sea-level changes. As well as gaining an understanding of earth sciences, you’ll develop analytical and problem-solving skills.
Key features of the course
- Teaches you how to observe and gather information about earth processes and environments through the study of rocks, fossils, minerals and landforms
- Develops your skills in data collection, analysis, critical thinking and problem solving
- Gives you the opportunity to carry out independent projects and attend field courses
- Offers the chance to debate issues and use professional online databases
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- undertaking practical work or using an online laboratory
- working with specialist reading material such as scientific journals
- using specialist software
- working in a group with other students
- using and/or producing diagrams and/or screenshots
- finding external/third party material online.
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with two 60-credit introductory science modules.
- At Stage 2 you’ll study a 60-credit earth sciences module and choose a further 60 credits from a range of science modules.
- At Stage 3, you’ll study a 60-credit earth sciences module, choose a further 30-credit module and complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.
Prepare for OU study with an Access module
We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.