MSc Volcanology and Geological Hazards
This unique MSc allows you to study amongst one of the largest groups of volcanologists and environmental scientists in the UK. Training in volcanology encompasses field, theoretical and laboratory components, with visits to study volcanic rocks in the nearby Lake District and a popular optional fieldtrip to Etna.
Taught modules address the physical processes that generate volcanic and other geological hazards, together with hazard mitigation and management. Thanks to the broad choice of optional modules you can also study other environmental hazards such as flooding, and pick up useful transferable skills such as geoinformatics or modelling.
You will carry out your dissertation research alongside one of the many internationally-recognized experts in the LEC. The MSc is ideal preparation for PhD research, or work in the environment sector, and is suitable for students with a wide range of first degrees, including Geography, Geology, Environmental Science and Physics.
To encourage breadth in our cohort, we offer students with a less numerate background the chance to develop their mathematical skills through a non-assessed support module designed specifically for Masters students.
Core Modules
- Disaster Management
- Dissertation Project
- Geological Hazards
- Physical Volcanology
Optional Modules
- Air Pollution and Climate
- Climate Change and Society
- Chemical Risk Assessment
- Contaminated, Land and Remediation
- Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Data Assimilation and Integration
- Environmental Applications of Isotope Geochemistry
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Radioactivity
- Flood Forecasting and Flood Risk Management
- Geoinformatics
- Groundwater Resources and Protection
- Modelling Environmental Processes
- Volcanic Process Field Course
Recent Alumni
Many of our alumni go on to volcano research at PhD level and beyond. Here are details of some of our recent graduates:
Essential Info
Director of Studies
Dr Hugh Tuffen
Duration
12 months full-time, 24 months part-time.
Entry Requirements
Applicants to our taught masters degrees require a relevant, good first degree (normally 2:1 or equivalent). We can also consider applicants with a 2:2 (or equivalent) if they have relevant work experience (including voluntary work).
We also encourage applications from professionals who have relevant work-related qualifications but not necessarily a first degree. If you come from a non-standard background and would like advice on your eligibility for our programmes please get in touch with the LEC PG Office.
Funding
There are a number of bursaries available for our Taught Masters courses, please consult Taught Masters Funding.
Contact Details
To discuss further please consult the Director of Studies, for general enquiries please consult the FAQ page.
Student Profile
I came to Lancaster firstly for the excellent reputation of the Department and the masters course here. I also had some friends who studied here before who recommended the Department and University not to mention the close proximity to stunning scenery.
There was a large range of research topics to choose from and I found the taught modules very interesting and relevant. I gained useful training during the taught modules such as learning GIS and remote sensing, whilst also developing my writing and presentation skills.
I am now doing a PhD in the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, researching the evolution of volcanism on Montserrat, West Indies. The scientific writing and communication skills I built up doing my dissertation, the connections I made throughout the course and the supervised research I carried out at Lancaster really helped me to progress to further postgraduate research.
Mike Cassidy