Postgraduate MSc courses

The postgraduate Masters degrees at St Andrews are integrated with the School's leading research programmes, providing a dynamic and exciting environment in which to study for an MSc. St Andrews boasts a fantastic location in which to study the Earth Sciences, being surrounded by beaches, the sea, and world-famous geological outcrops. The School has a lively social scene, with a close-knit postgraduate and research community, and close links with other Schools and facilities across a small yet world-class University.

Current students and Alumni who have graduated in the last 3 years are now eligible for a 15% fee discount. In addition, offer holders of the Environmental Science MSc will be eligible to apply (before 1^st April) for a Global Merit or St Leonard’s award, which may include guaranteed accommodation

Provides training in Earth Sciences for academic or applied research projects

Geochemistry is a fundamental sub-discipline of the Earth  sciences, providing the techniques and knowledge to address questions as: was there ever life on Mars, how do planets form, and what are the rates and drivers of climate change, both past and present? Geochemistry also has widespread application to understanding and solving contemporary problems, ranging from pollution of soils and water, to rates of ocean acidification, and the exploration and management of natural resources.

The St Andrews MSc Geochemistry delivers postgraduate-level knowledge and skills training in modern geochemical methods, involving field work, hands-on laboratory training, and experience with state-of-the-art equipment. This broad and rigorous course provides preparation for either pursuing a PhD, by incorporating a lab-based research dissertation, or direct employment in industry through incorporation of applied economic and environmental geochemistry modules.

Course information and how to apply

All aspects of application to postgraduate degree programmes are considered carefully, including academic references and personal statements. Specific entry requirements and further information on how to apply are available on the Geochemistry MSc course page.

Arrange a visit

The University organises a series of visiting days in the Spring and Autumn. For visits outside published visiting days, contact the School by emailing earthsci@st-andrews.ac.uk.
The MSc in Environmental Science equips students from diverse scientific backgrounds with the practical and theoretical skills needed to tackle the biggest environmental challenges of our time. The degree includes training in analytical sciences and data analysis, modelling techniques, remediation practices, and reconstruction of biogeochemical processes from the atmosphere to soils, rivers and oceans.

The course includes a capstone field-based exercise in to a globally recognised environmental disaster site, such as Rio Tinto, Spain, and concludes with a dissertation centred around an independent environmental impact assessment project. The course is suitable for motivated graduates with a background in biology, chemistry, physics or natural sciences such as geology, environmental science or geography who seek employment in the professional environmental sector or research opportunities at PhD level.

The course page to link to is here: Environmental Science MSc - Subjects - University of St Andrews (st-andrews.ac.uk)

Arrange a visit

The University organises a series of visiting days in the Spring and Autumn. For visits outside published visiting days, contact the School by emailing earthsci@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Postgraduate MSc courses

MSc Geochemistry

MSc in Environmental Science