Earth Sciences & Geology

Applying to St Hugh’s for Earth Sciences (Geology)

Theory, measurements, experiments, and observation of natural processes are all essential elements in the Earth Sciences, and students with a strong background in all aspects of the physical sciences are encouraged to apply to St Hugh’s College.

As part of the interview process, candidates may be asked to comment on geological specimens, or carry out simple calculations, but always with due consideration of their previous knowledge of the subject being discussed.

In order to cope with the requirements of the course, candidates are required to have Mathematics plus Physics or Chemistry to A-level or equivalent. Chemistry or Physics are also highly recommended as a third subject. Biology, Geology or Further Mathematics can also be helpful to candidates in completing this course.

Choosing St Hugh’s for Earth Sciences (Geology)

Studying Earth Sciences allows for the exploration of fundamental questions about our planet.

The program at Oxford aims to provide students with a sound and broadly-based scientific training in physics, chemistry, and biology, as applied to the study of the Earth and the environment. Course topics are diverse and include the evolution of the solar system, the evolution of life on Earth, the causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and the origin and behaviour of oceans and atmosphere. The course is taught through lectures, classes and tutorials, and also involves fieldwork.

The Earth Scientist undergraduates at St Hugh’s form a close-knit community that support each other academically.

Professor Erin Saupe

Studying and Living at St Hugh’s

Professor Erin Saupe, out Tutor in Earth Sciences at St Hugh’s, is a palaeobiologist working to investigate interactions between life and environments over geological time scales. Research in the Saupe Lab addresses fundamental questions on the origin, maintenance, and conservation of biological diversity. More specifically, we integrate biological data with information from the fossil record to elucidate the controls on community and species’ responses to environmental change across various spatial and temporal scales.

Erin’s video below explains a little more about her research, and an insight into her Tutorials at St Hugh’s, and what you might expect to study at St Hugh’s: