Earth Sciences
Earth Sciences
Unlock the secrets of our living planet
Explore the dynamic systems that shape our world, from the depths of the ocean to the peaks of mountains, from ancient geological formations to modern climate patterns. Study at world-leading universities where you'll learn from renowned geoscientists and environmental researchers who are decoding Earth's past, understanding its present, and predicting its future. Discover how Earth sciences integrate geology, oceanography, atmospheric science, and environmental studies to address the most pressing challenges facing our planet.
From tectonic forces to climate change
Gain hands-on experience with the tools and techniques that Earth scientists use to study our planet's complex systems. Master geological mapping, climate data analysis, environmental monitoring, and field research methods through expert-led sessions and practical investigations. Learn how Earth scientists contribute to natural resource management, hazard prediction, environmental conservation, and climate action. Through personalized mentorship and immersive learning, develop the scientific knowledge and fieldwork skills needed to pursue a career understanding and protecting our planet.
Earth Sciences is an interdisciplinary field that examines the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape our planet. In this programme, you’ll explore essential areas including geology and plate tectonics, oceanography and marine systems, atmospheric science and meteorology, environmental change and sustainability, natural hazards and risk assessment, and Earth’s history and evolution. Through field investigations, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation, you’ll develop the scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and systems thinking vital for careers in Earth sciences. Whether you’re passionate about volcanology, climate science, environmental conservation, or planetary geology, this programme provides deep engagement with the Earth systems that sustain life and shape our world.
A comprehensive curriculum covering the essential foundations of Earth system science
Explore the fundamental principles of geology and the dynamic processes that shape Earth's surface. Learn about plate tectonics, rock formation, mountain building, and volcanic activity. Master the skills of rock and mineral identification, geological mapping, and understanding Earth's internal structure. Discover how continents drift, mountains rise, and ocean basins form through the powerful forces of plate tectonics. Understand the geological timescale and how scientists reconstruct Earth's 4.6-billion-year history through the rock record.
Dive into the study of Earth's oceans, which cover over 70% of our planet's surface. Learn about ocean circulation, marine ecosystems, seafloor geology, and the ocean's role in climate regulation. Understand how currents distribute heat around the globe, how marine life adapts to different ocean environments, and how human activities impact ocean health. Explore the cutting-edge technologies used to study the deep sea and discover how oceanography contributes to understanding climate change, marine resources, and coastal hazards.
Examine the atmosphere and the complex processes that control weather and climate. Learn about atmospheric composition, circulation patterns, weather forecasting, and climate modeling. Understand how greenhouse gases trap heat, how El Niño affects global weather, and how scientists predict future climate scenarios. Explore the evidence for climate change from ice cores, tree rings, and instrumental records. Develop skills in analyzing climate data and understanding the science behind one of humanity's greatest challenges.
Investigate how human activities are transforming Earth's systems and explore sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. Learn about resource management, pollution, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem services. Understand the concept of planetary boundaries and the limits to Earth's carrying capacity. Explore case studies of environmental degradation and restoration, from deforestation to renewable energy transitions. Develop critical thinking about the relationship between human societies and natural systems, and discover how Earth scientists contribute to sustainability science.
Study the natural hazards that pose risks to human populations including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods, and landslides. Learn how Earth scientists monitor, predict, and mitigate these hazards to protect communities. Understand the geological and atmospheric processes that cause natural disasters and explore the technologies used for early warning systems. Examine case studies of major hazard events and discover how risk assessment combines scientific understanding with social vulnerability to inform disaster preparedness and response.
Journey through Earth's deep history and learn how scientists reconstruct past environments and life forms. Study the fossil record, mass extinctions, and major transitions in Earth's climate and biosphere. Learn how ice ages come and go, how continents have rearranged over time, and how life has evolved in response to changing environments. Understand the methods of paleoclimatology and how studying the past helps us predict future environmental changes. Discover how Earth's history provides crucial context for understanding current environmental challenges.
earth sciences
OXFORD, CAMBRIDGE, YALE AND OTHERS
Where You´ll STUDY
Our Earth Sciences programmes are hosted at prestigious universities renowned for their geoscience departments and environmental research centers. Study at institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and other centers of Earth science excellence where groundbreaking discoveries have advanced our understanding of planetary processes. Benefit from access to geological collections, research laboratories, field equipment, and connections to natural history museums and environmental monitoring stations. Learn in environments that have trained generations of geologists, climatologists, and environmental scientists who study Earth’s systems and address global environmental challenges.
13-18
Ages
15+
Elite Institutions
100%
Life-Changing Experiences
Let’s Begin Your Adventure
With more than 40 courses across 7 cities, there’s something for everyone. Explore arts, writing, humanities, business, economics, computer science, sciences, and more. For a unique Academic Summer Courses experience, consider booking an information session with one of our advisors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Our Earth Sciences programme welcomes students at all levels, from complete beginners to those with some geology or environmental science experience. Whether you’re exploring Earth sciences as a potential career path or simply fascinated by natural phenomena like volcanoes, earthquakes, or climate change, this course is designed to meet you where you are.
You’ll gain a comprehensive foundation in Earth Sciences through six core areas of study:
Foundations of Geology & Plate Tectonics – Explore the dynamic processes that shape Earth’s surface, learning about plate tectonics, rock formation, and how scientists reconstruct Earth’s 4.6-billion-year history.
Oceanography & Marine Systems – Dive into the study of Earth’s oceans, learning about ocean circulation, marine ecosystems, and the ocean’s crucial role in climate regulation.
Atmospheric Science & Climate Systems – Examine the atmosphere and the complex processes that control weather and climate, including the science behind climate change and weather forecasting.
Environmental Change & Sustainability – Investigate how human activities are transforming Earth’s systems and explore sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
Natural Hazards & Risk Assessment – Study earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and other natural hazards, learning how scientists monitor and mitigate risks to human populations.
Earth’s History & Paleoenvironments – Journey through Earth’s deep history, learning how scientists reconstruct past environments and what this tells us about future climate change.
The specific focus and field activities will vary by location and instructor, ensuring a unique learning experience tailored to each destination’s geological features and environmental characteristics.
Beyond Earth science knowledge, you’ll develop skills and experiences that extend far into your future:
Access to World-Class Institutions – Study at Oxford, Cambridge, and other prestigious universities where leading research advances our understanding of Earth systems and environmental change.
Mentorship from Earth Science Experts – Learn directly from practicing geologists, climatologists, oceanographers, and environmental scientists who bring decades of research experience to your learning.
Personalized Learning Environment – Small class sizes ensure you receive individual attention, meaningful feedback, and the opportunity to develop genuine connections with mentors and peers who share your passion for Earth sciences.
Field Experience & Practical Skills – Gain hands-on experience through field investigations, laboratory work, and data analysis that build your confidence in scientific methods and Earth science techniques.
Global Perspective – Study alongside ambitious students from around the world, building a network of peers who share your commitment to understanding and protecting our planet.
Career Clarity – Our students consistently report that their experience clarified their career goals, strengthened their university applications, and gave them the confidence to pursue their ambitions in Earth and environmental sciences.
This is more than an academic programme—it’s an investment in your future as a scientist, environmental steward, and planetary explorer.