What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will learn about the acquisition and application of Earth Science data to practical and research issues. The module will explore a range of topics such as:
- Earth systems
- Local, regional and global Earth history - environments, climates and catastrophes
- Past climates and how we reconstruct them
- Changes in the cryosphere on land and sea
- Data analysis and simple coding
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In addition to learning about how Earth Science data can be utilised, you will develop your confidence, skills and abilities in handling data, simple coding and problem solving. On fieldwork you will develop your observational skills and your abilities to draw your observations together into logical interpretations. This module will also develop your ethical concern for the planet and a professional attitude towards presenting data.
On completion of the module, your improved ability to link theory, practice and application will serve to enhance your future studies and employment prospects.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, IT sessions and fieldwork activities. Beyond timetabled sessions, your independent study will be guided and supported through your engagement with a range of interactive learning resources accessible on-line via the module eLP site.
You will spend most of your contact time doing. This will be divided between fieldwork and IT sessions. The active learning on the module will be supported by lectures on core topics, including on career options relating to the module.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Teaching staff operate an ‘open door’ policy for students meaning you can approach them anytime during normal office hours, or via email, to answer questions, receive feedback and support your learning on the module. During IT sessions and whilst on fieldwork, you will engage in small group activities, interacting closely with teaching staff. Your class materials will be further supported by on-line resources available via the module eLP site. An interactive reading list with on-line access to a number of key articles and aligned with your weekly teaching programme
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• MLO 1: Develop your knowledge about the Earth as a system and how systems interact.
• MLO 2: Understand how to collect and analyse Earth Science data to real world problems.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MLO3: Apply basic coding/computer literacy to manipulate data to solve a complex Earth Science problem.
• MLO 4: Demonstrate an ability to report Earth Science data concisely, accurately and with regard for an intended audience.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MLO 5: Gain an awareness of how the Earth changes across different spatial and temporal scales.
How will I be assessed?
The module is assessed by a portfolio document of 2500 words. As you are engaging with the teaching on the module, you will be set small projects to support your learning. You will write each of these five small projects up in a 500 word report. These small project reports will develop your abilities to not only apply specialist knowledge and interpret data for problem solving but will teach you the value of concise writing (an invaluable skill for dissertations and future employment).
This assessment comprises 100% of the module mark and assesses all 5 MLOs.
As these small projects will be directly related to your future employability, fieldwork and the IT sessions, you will get regular formative feedback to help you succeed.
Pre-requisite(s)
KE4014 Introduction to Physical Environments
KE4006 Dynamic Earth
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Earth Science is at the heart of most 21st Century challenges. Welcome to Applied Geosciences. In this research-rich module you will learn how we can measure, model and reconstruct key components of the Earth. From lectures, IT sessions and fieldwork, you will be guided through generating, manipulating, understanding and communicating data to answer questions relating to the dynamic nature of planet Earth.
Course info
UCAS Code F840
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Geography and Environmental Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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