Earth Sciences A-Level Pathway
Core
Geography
Geology
SUBJECT COMBINATION POSSIBILITIES
Maths
Physics
Computer Science
Biology
Chemistry
Economics
Sociology
These are just some of the recommended subjects, but other combinations are also available.
Additional Study Skills
EPQ
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)is a largely self-directed research project into a topic of the student’s choice. You will develop your study skills as you plan, research and develop your idea, creating either a research assignment, a product or an activity (e.g.,an event)as your final piece. The EPQ may also count towards UCAS points.
Core Maths
Core Maths is an exciting course which will help you to use maths in a range of ‘real world’ contexts to prepare for success in your studies, future care and life.
This one-year course will develop your mathematical skills and thinking appropriate for a Level 3 qualification. You will become more confident and competent in using maths and the qualification will be considered for UCAS points if you are planning to study at university in the future.
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
Work experience examples (skills, sector, employers) Derby City Council will have departments that may be of interest to an Earth Science student. However,other employers locally may support the practical and analytical skills such as engineering, construction, energy and logistics.Wildlife Trusts can provide field work experience for ecology or environmental science.
Internal and External opportunities:
Joseph Wright Friends of the Earth Club and Urban Garden ClubUniversity Taster Days and Insight SchemesSummer Schools,such as the Sutton Trust
Skills built from studying these subjects:
These are just some examples ….
- Analytical Skills and Evaluation
- Technical Skills
- Planningand Problem Solving
- Researching and Data Collection
- Numeracy and IT
- Communication (presentation, written and debating)
- Ability to Work Independently and in a Team
Example Career Pathways
These are just some examples
Environmental/Land
CartographerClimate ScientistCountryside OfficerEnvironmental ConsultantEcologistGeologist
Construction/Science
Town PlannerSurveyorLandscape ArchitectEnergy EngineerMeteorologist
Travel/Transport
Transport ManagerAid WorkerMerchant NavySupply Chain ManagerTourism Officer
Specialist Careers Information
Geological Society: https://www.geolsoc.org.uk/
My oil and gas career: https://www.myenergyfuture.co.uk/
General: https://www.geolsoc.org.uk/CareersInfo https://www.geography.org.uk/Jobs-and-careers-in-geographyhttps://www.rgs.org/geography/choose-geography/careers/
Next Steps
Earth science includes a wide combination of skills from the very practical where use of technical expertise, equipment and teamwork is required to individual based work that is research based. Aspects of some careers are niche and demand higher level qualifications, expertise and training. However,there are opportunities across apprenticeships, higher national apprenticeships, employer sponsorship and degrees in an area that is growing in popularity and the requirement for a sustainable environmental.
University
- Geography
- Geology
- Transport and Logistics
- Environmental Conservation
- Landscape Architecture
Specialist University Information
Apprenticeship
- Travel Adviser
- Surveying Technician
- Agriculture
- Environmental Health