# Earth and environmental sciences

**Source**: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/subjects/earth-environmental-sciences/
**Parent**: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/subjects/

Understand and explore the natural processes that shape the planet and its environment. Learn about topics ranging from current climate change to the formation of mountain belts, or modern ocean acidification to the management of natural resources.

At the University of St Andrews you will benefit from a world-class education and be taught by leading scientists in the field.

## Undergraduate

Open all

- ### Explore courses

## Postgraduate taught

Open all

- ### Explore courses

## Postgraduate research

The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences offers [PhD research programmes](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/earth-sciences/prospective/pgr/). Research within the School is grouped into [three main themes](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/earth-sciences/research/themes/):

- planets and life
- climate, society and environmental change
- Earth resources and sustainability

To apply, you should first identify and contact a potential supervisor you would like to work with in your intended research area. Find out how to [contact a research supervisor](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/earth-sciences/prospective/pgr/).

> “I chose St Andrews because of the multitude of fieldwork opportunities within and outside of Scotland. The staff are incredibly dedicated to their students and the result is a lively and positive atmosphere. I had absolutely no need to worry about making friends – there are so many University events, societies and sporting activities to get involved in, which means you are always going to find like-minded people.”

**Charlotte** \
- Franschhoek, South Africa

## Awards

> ### [Third in the UK for Earth Sciences](https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2025/sep/13/the-guardian-university-guide-2026-the-rankings)
>
> Guardian University Guide 2026

> ### [96% of research activity is world-leading and internationally excellent](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/research/showcase/excellence/ref-2021/results/)
>
> Most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)

## [School of Earth and Environmental Sciences](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/earth-sciences/)

The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences is a scientific community that studies the Earth and its neighbours in space. The School's vision for the future is to define the cutting edge of Earth, environmental, and planetary science, and deliver unparalleled student education.

## Studying in St Andrews

[Entry requirements](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/subjects/entry/)

The University offers a variety of flexible entry options in order to allow all students, regardless of background or personal circumstances, to apply.

[Fees and funding](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/)

Scholarships and funding options are available at every level of study.

[Accommodation](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/accommodation/)

St Andrews has variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.

## Visit St Andrews

If you’re interested in studying at St Andrews, join us at a visiting day or talk and tour to explore the town, find out about our courses and meet current students. You can also join us for one of our upcoming online events.  

[Book a place](https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/meet-us/)