School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
MSc Environmental Geochemistry
| Duration | 1 year |
| Course type | Full-time, Part-time route available |
| Study location | Plymouth |
Environmental geochemistry is central to the environmental sector which has grown rapidly over the last decade. The global environmental consultancy market, a key destination for suitably skilled graduates, is currently increasing at its strongest rate for five years. Geochemical expertise is vital to many aspects of the day to day work of environmental consultants, civil, structural and mining engineers, environmental regulatory authorities, mining and oil companies.
Postgraduate Opportunities Session
12 February 2026
Register now for an opportunity to speak to our academic and professional staff - this virtual event will be the perfect chance to find out more about programme details, applications, scholarships, visas, student living, accommodation, and more!
QS World University Rankings 2023
In top 15 UK universities for earth and marine sciences, geology and geophysics - QS World University Rankings by subject 2023.
Careers with this subject
Environmental geochemistry provides strong employment opportunities for appropriately skilled graduates. Research amongst chemistry, science and general employers suggests the majority of employers are seeking additional skills from graduates, particularly numeracy (including data analysis), independent learning, commercial/business awareness, flexibility/adaptability, leadership, interpersonal and research skills. Similarly, the last relevant environmental research council review published by NERC (2012) cited most important skill gaps identified by employers as modelling, multidisciplinarity, data management, numeracy, translating research into practice, fieldwork and risk and uncertainty. These are all central to the field of environmental geochemistry which, in comparison to other environmental management postgraduate programmes, places a particular focus on understanding the chemical nature of environmental issues and a rigorous approach to data acquisition, data management, modelling and uncertainty thus providing graduates with unique and desirable skill set.
Environmental geochemistry graduates would be ideally suited to both environmental consulting, specialising in interpretation of complex data sets and chemical behaviour, or as an analytical scientist for a commercial or research laboratory. The MSc Environmental Geochemistry programme has been developed in response to this demand for high level skills in this field. Specifically, the MSc programme is designed to be an effective transition between the typically scientific focus of an undergraduate education in geoscience and chemistry (or a closely related discipline) and a career in the application of environmental geochemistry within the private or public sector. The programme also develops students’ professional skills, such as understanding business and the environment ethics, with those required to work in an interdisciplinary environment such as stakeholder engagement and communicating risk and uncertainty.
Key features
- The only taught postgraduate programme dedicated to the study of environmental geochemistry in the Southern region of the UK.
- State of the art analytical instrumentation, plus the opportunity for students to work in our ISO 9001 certified laboratories used in industry for high quality data.
- Case study and field excursions to current and legacy extractive industry sites in close proximity to Plymouth, including metal mining, china clay extraction, urban redevelopment and industrial processing sites.
- An employability focused hands-on course. You will learn how chemicals of environmental concern move through the environment, how to analyse them and how to interpret the data to support environmental management decisions.
- Drawing on the expertise of our academic and technical staff from chemistry, environmental sciences, geology and geography whom have experience within industry and world-class scientific research profiles.
- A diverse and respectful place in which to work and study is fundamental to everything we do. Find out more about
equality, diversity and inclusion in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science .
Course details
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Programme overview
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You will learn how chemicals of environmental concern move through the environment, how to analyse them and how to interpret the data to support environmental management decisions. This involves using a broad suite of analytical tools, inclusive of field measurements, chemical instrumentation and digital modelling methods. Geochemical research guides oil exploration, can help improve water quality and is also used to develop plans to manage contaminated sites.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Entry requirements
An honours degree (upper second class or better) in a relevant discipline (e.g., BSc Chemistry, Geography, Environmental Science, Geological Sciences, Biological Sciences, Ocean Sciences) or overseas equivalent.
If you apply with a 2:2 and relevant industry experience, this would also be considered.
A minimum grade C in English Language at GCSE level OR a minimum overall score of 6.5 in IELTS with no less than 5.5 in any component.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our
UCAS tariff
glossary.
For an informal enquiry please contact Dr Alison Turner by email: alison.turner@plymouth.ac.uk.
Fees, costs and funding
| 2025-2026 | 2026-2027 | |
|---|---|---|
| Home | £11,350 | £11,700 |
| International | £20,400 | £21,000 |
| Part time (Home) | £630 | £650 |
Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.
PLEASE NOTE:
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
How to apply
When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
- evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our
application guidance.
Disability Inclusion Services
If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the
additional support the University provides
.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our
how to apply
information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).
What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the
student regulations, policies and procedures
page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.
International students
If you are an international student wanting to study with us in the UK, you can ask questions about your course and scholarship options by contacting our Faculty International Team.
Meet the Programme Leader
“My primary interest is the development of people through scientific practice and problem-solving. My interest areas are: closed mine rehabilitation, practicable waste and water management strategies, ground and surface water chemistry interpretation, hydrology and hydrogeology. I have most experience in the field of acidic and metalliferous risk and geochemical characterisation studies of mine waters and wastes, including tailings.”
Lecturer in Chemistry and Environmental Geochemistry
Meet one of our Module Leaders
“I have over 20 years of research experience as an analytical chemist and marine biogeochemist. I research trace metal biogeochemistry in the Atlantic Ocean, including basin scale processes of iron (Fe) biogeochemistry from the atmosphere to the deep ocean. My technical expertise includes the application of Flow Injection Analysis (FIA) and ICP-MS to analyse Fe and trace elements in aerosol and marine samples. I have worked as a Marie Curie research fellow at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences and have undertaken fieldwork in the UK, European shelf sea and Atlantic research cruises through NERC, NSF and EU funded projects.”
Associate Professor of Marine and Analytical Chemistry
The Worshipful Company of Water Conservators Award
We are pleased to announce once again this year an award to the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Plymouth from London livery company the .
For informal enquiries about the award contact the course Programme Lead.
Applications for this award will close on 15 August 2025 and the successful applicant will be notified by the first week of September.
Applications must be submitted to: GEES Enquiries geesenquiries@plymouth.ac.uk with the title of the award in the title and the programme you are applying to.
Scholarship opportunity
SRK (UK) is pleased to announce its scholarship programme for the academic year 2026/27, created to assist students undertaking a masters (MSc) degree in geochemistry or relates courses (geoscience, applied environmental geology, environmental science) which can be applied in the resources and engineering industries. The award is for £1500 towards tuition fees. The recipient may also have the opportunity to work alongside SRK’s geochemistry team and gain hands-on experience in their selected field, during their summer dissertation.
Closing date 28 July 2026. Please contact programme leader for more details and eligibility criteria.
“I began studying on the MSc Environmental Geochemistry in September 2020 after graduating from Plymouth’s chemistry undergraduate course. If your educational background is different, do not let this put you off from applying. As an MSc routed in environmental science, the course is naturally multidisciplinary and I have had the opportunity to be taught by and to study alongside geologists, geographers, ocean scientists and other environmental professionals.
Throughout the MSc there have been many engaging guest lectures from industry professionals in areas such as environmental consultancy, sustainable agriculture, water management, renewable energy production, and contaminated land assessment. The modules and assessment structure of the MSc offer a solid grounding in not just how contaminants move through the environment but in other areas such as environmental law and economics, as well as practical experience with mapping and planning software widely used in industry.
It is not a secret that university has been different this last year. However, the course has determined and passionate leadership and has been delivered exceptionally well. I do not hesitate to recommend the MSc Environmental Geochemistry to any graduate interested in a career in environmental science.”
Dan Rogers
Current student
Current student
Graduate success – Matthew Cundell
“The teaching is of excellent quality by staff who are thoroughly knowledgeable in their subjects and who are actively researching these areas.”
Work experience
The MSc provides ‘real world’ experience during your placement(which can lead to permanent employment) of working with organisations who manage our environment, including:
- Environmental consultancy at Pell Frischmann, WSP, Atkins, Aecom, Royal Haskoning-DHV, White Young Green, Arcadis, Black and Veatch, Ramboll, Mott MacDonald.
- Catchment management at the Westcountry Rivers Trust, Environment Agency, Natural England as well as Tamar, North Devon, South Devon, Blackdown Hills, Cornwall Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Discover facilities in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
As student in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences you will have access to a range of cutting-edge resources and facilities.
These will support your learning in the field and in the laboratory – whether in traditional chemistry lab or a high-performance computing room. Many are solely for the use of our students and researchers and you will also have access to LABplus Resource Centre and the Marine Station.
Facilities for research and teaching
People
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![Dr Charlotte Braungardt Visiting Specialist]( "Dr Charlotte Braungardt")
Dr Charlotte Braungardt
Visiting Specialist
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![Professor Ralph Fyfe Professor]( "Professor Ralph Fyfe")
Professor Ralph Fyfe
Professor
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![Dr Paul Lunt Associate Professor in Environmental Science]( "Dr Paul Lunt")
Dr Paul Lunt
Associate Professor in Environmental Science
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![Dr Hayley Manners Lecturer in Organic Chemistry]( "Dr Hayley Manners")
Dr Hayley Manners
Lecturer in Organic Chemistry
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![Professor Simon Ussher Professor of Marine and Analytical Chemistry]( "Professor Simon Ussher")
Professor Simon Ussher
Professor of Marine and Analytical Chemistry
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![Dr Michael Wilde Associate Professor in Analytical and Environmental Chemistry]( "Dr Michael Wilde")
Dr Michael Wilde
Associate Professor in Analytical and Environmental Chemistry
