Geology field camps
The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of St Andrews offers two residential geology programmes in Scotland during the summer semester:
- Geology Field Camp in Scotland – trains students to become professional 21st-century field geologists.
- The Geological History of Scotland – designed for non-science majors and junior science students
As the international home of geology, Scotland is the ideal natural laboratory in which to study geology.
Walk in the footsteps of geological giants!
Geology Field Camp in Scotland
The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of St Andrews invites you to walk in the footsteps of geological giants and to study in the “birthplace of geology” at one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world. Herbert H Read famously said “…the best geologists are the ones who have seen the most rocks” (Read, 1940). Scotland’s geological diversity is a key factor in the School’s field training and because it is situated in the Midland Valley Terrane, and just one hour from the Highlands, travel time is minimised allowing more time “on the rocks”.
Why learn to map in Scotland at the University of St Andrews
Scotland has more geological diversity per km2 than anywhere else on Earth. In this course you will study the world-famous sites of specific scientific interest that led to the discovery of geological time, modern structural geology and metamorphic zones. On completion of this course, you will have mapped and discussed world-class geology, become a confident field-ready geologist, met new friends and encountered new cultural experiences along the way.
The School of Earth and Environmental Science is recognised internationally as a leader in geological field training, ranks first in Scotland in Earth Science education (2018 Complete University Guide) and first in the UK for Earth Science graduate prospects. Earth Sciences students appreciate that the teaching staff are experienced, dedicated, friendly and research-active geoscientists.
What to expect in field camp
Geology Field Camp in Scotland is a challenging, intensive and highly rewarding programme that is conducted over five weeks of residential fieldwork. You will work on the Fife Coastline, classic Buchan and Barrovian metamorphism localities south of Aberdeen, picturesque settings around Loch Ness and across the northwest highlands and also spend a full week exploring the Isle of Mull in the Hebrides.
The course will focus on geological mapping and field work techniques and integrate stratigraphic, lithological, structural and palaeontological concepts of traditional field geology. Students will become confident field geologists capable of conducting independent field work in complex geological terranes.
Field camp programme
Dates: June 4th to July 5th 2020
Fees for 2020: £4,050 (GBP). This fee includes:
- five weeks of tuition at the University of St Andrews, Scotland
- all accommodation and food for the duration of the course
- accommodation on campus is provided in student halls of residence in the town of St Andrews Field
- accommodation in the field is provided in youth hostels with internet, shower and full kitchen facilities
- all transport costs for the duration of the course
- all materials required for mapping projects
- admittance to historic sites of interest and scheduled extracurricular activities
- cost does not include travel expenses between home country and the University of St Andrews.
Field training is led by School staff who have decades of experience in geological fieldwork and the exploration industry worldwide. A total of 31 days will be spent conducting field work designed to build upon a series of short introductory workshops and lectures. During this time a staff to student ratio of 1:10 is maintained and all courses are led by members of faculty.
Explore the Scottish Highlands and heritage.
Explore the Scottish Highlands and heritage while developing an appreciation for three billion years of Earth history and the geological processes that shape our planet.
This program introduces you to Earth Science and Scottish Geology over four weeks of residential study in Scotland, followed by one week of directed study. No prior knowledge of geology is required. As a resident student, you will be fully immersed in Scottish heritage and culture throughout your stay at the third oldest University in the English-speaking world
What to expect
You will see some of the oldest rocks in the world, find your own fossils, discover why some ancient volcanoes go boom and others just pop, and learn how to identify different rocks and minerals and understand their economic application. The majority of the teaching involves hands-on laboratory classes or takes place in the great outdoors. Using Scotland as a case study, you will learn to appreciate Earth history and gain a deep understanding of the Earth’s composition, evolution and resources.
Field excursions and the Scottish Highlands
Field work skills and geological knowledge are built up through three day-trips to the fantastic coastal outcrops around St Andrews (only a stone’s throw away), the seaside villages on the Fife coast such as Pittenweem, and the world-renowned Siccar Point near Edinburgh. This prepares you for the four-day excursion through the picturesque northwest Highlands of Scotland.
Experience Scottish culture and heritage
Scotland has a long and fascinating history, and the School encourages students to experience all that it has to offer. The School organises several social events such as local ceilidhs and day excursions to the cultural heights of Edinburgh and ancient battlefields in the Highlands.