MSci in Palaeontology and Evolution or BSc Geology and Biology

This programme is designed for those who have a broad general interest in the overlapping fields of geology and biology. It is especially appropriate for those who wish to specialise in palaeobiology, which is one of our major research interests. Forgive the different programme names! The BSc is simply years 1-3, and the MSci is years 1-4.

First year

You take the first year of the Geology programme, along with Biology units which cover the diversity of life (evolution, speciation, biodiversity, origins of life) and life processes (cells, genetics, ecology). There is a week’s geology field class in the Easter vacation.

Second year

Mandatory units include sedimentology, palaeontology, geological maps and evolutionary biology, and there is a range of options from both disciplines including structural geology, soil geoscience, atmospheric science, developmental biology, conservation biology, insect and parasite biology, behavioural ecology, ecosystems and ecophysiology. There are also palaeontology seminars and a week’s geology field class learning the techniques of geological field mapping during the summer vacation preceding the second year.

Third year

In the third year micropalaeontology, evolution of the biosphere, and a biology field class are mandatory units, while there is a wide choice of options including taphonomy, palaeoecology, oceanography, avian biology, environmental physiology (animal life under extremes), parasites and pests, and evolution of sexual strategies. You also carry out a literature-based research project.

Fourth year

The fourth year is half taught and half independent project. You join our MSc in Palaeobiology students, who come to Bristol from many countries to study a popular and successful course that has been in existence since 1996, and has so far had over 150 graduates. You do a mix of compulsory units (scientific communication, palaeontological research methods, current controversies) and choose advanced units related to your enthusiasms. The project continues through this time, and then occupies all your time for the second half of the programme. Get your teeth into feeding habits of T. rex, climate change across the KT boundary, early hominid evolution in Africa, or whatever you fancy….

MSci or BSc?

Curricula and unit outlines