MSc Computational Geoscience at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

The MSc explores how the natural world and its processes are modelled, developing applied data science and modelling skills for geoscience, including computer programming, predictive modelling and big data analysis. It is one of very few UK programmes focused on computational modelling in geosciences, was developed in consultation with industry, and uses coding languages including Python.

Faculty: College of Science and Engineering | Department: School of Geographical and Earth Sciences | Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time | Intake: September | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Six core courses (60 credits) in semester one and five core courses (60 credits) in semester two, followed by a summer research project. Courses include Introduction to Earth Science, Principles of GIS, Theoretical and Applied Climatology, Numerical Foundations of Geodynamics, Modelling Water Environments, Topographic Modelling and Landscape Monitoring, Machine Learning Applications for Earth Systems Problems, Modelling of Landscape Evolution and Numerical Modelling of Solid Earth Dynamics. Delivery is mainly laboratory practicals, computing workshops and fieldwork.

Career pathways

Roles at the interface of computational modelling and geoscience in geothermal, carbon capture, energy and metals industries, earth system modelling, flood and landscape modelling, and environmental consulting and protection; the MSc also prepares students for PhD study in earth science.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in any Engineering discipline, Physical Sciences/Mathematics, Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences or Computing Science. Degrees in Geography, Building Surveying, Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Planning or Geomatics may also be accepted, and relevant professional experience may sometimes be accepted in lieu of qualifications. International applicants: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no subtest below 6.0 (other accepted tests listed by the University; IELTS General Training not accepted). International and EU applicants apply in rounds for September 2027 entry (Round 1: 1 October to 5 November 2026; final Round 6: 14 May to 8 July 2027); UK applicants: 24 August 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 13,092 a year (2027/28). Full-time tuition fee (Home and rUK) Source

International applicants: GBP 31,515 a year (2027/28). Full-time tuition fee (International and EU) Source

Intake: September

Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

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