Discover the best UK universities for Geology in 2026. These top programs offer hands-on fieldwork, expert research, and strong career prospects in earth sciences.
Best Universities for Geology: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Edinburgh | 91 | 79 |
| 2 Silver | University of Bristol | 89 | 82 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Glasgow | 88 | 78 |
| 4 | University of Leeds | 87 | 81 |
| 5 | University of Southampton | 86 | 80 |
| 6 | University of Manchester | 85 | 77 |
| 7 | University of Nottingham | 83 | 75 |
| 8 | University of Plymouth | 82 | 74 |
| 9 | University of Reading | 81 | 73 |
| 10 | University of Aberdeen | 80 | 71 |
1. University of Edinburgh Gold
2. University of Bristol Silver
3. University of Glasgow Bronze
4. University of Leeds
5. University of Southampton
6. University of Manchester
7. University of Nottingham
8. University of Plymouth
9. University of Reading
10. University of Aberdeen
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Geology rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, student satisfaction, crime rate, cost of a pint and Uber
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Geology Universities Explained
University of Edinburgh
Known for world-class research, extensive field trips, and high graduate employability.
University of Glasgow
Offers excellent lab facilities, diverse geology modules, and strong student satisfaction.
University of Bristol
Famous for innovative teaching, fieldwork opportunities, and supportive campus community.
University of Plymouth
Strong focus on applied geology and marine earth sciences.
University of Manchester
Balances research excellence with vibrant student life and good social support.
University of Aberdeen
Known for oil and gas geology expertise and strong industry links.
University of Southampton
Offers a great mix of academic rigor and active student support services.
University of Durham
Combines academic strength with beautiful surroundings ideal for geological studies.
University of St Andrews
Known for personalized teaching and fieldwork-led learning.
University of Leeds
Strong research output with excellent student satisfaction.
Career Prospects After a Geology Degree
Graduates typically enter sectors like environmental consultancy, energy, mining, and research. Related courses include Environmental Science and Geography.
Geology Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical entry requirements include A-levels in Geography, Physics, or Chemistry. UCAS points vary but generally fall between 120 and 160 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Geology in the UK
Glasgow, Plymouth, and Leeds offer affordable living combined with strong geology programs.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Bristol offer a lively social scene alongside quality geology courses.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Southampton provide excellent mental health services and study support.
Not Sure About Geology? Consider These Alternatives
Look into Earth Sciences, Geography, or Environmental Science.
Summary: Which Geology Uni is Right for You?
Consider fieldwork options, course content, campus facilities, and cost. Bookmark this guide to help you compare your choices.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Geology
Top UK universities for Geology include University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol, and University of St Andrews, known for their research excellence and hands-on fieldwork opportunities.
The University of Edinburgh often leads in Geology rankings thanks to its strong academic reputation and excellent student satisfaction scores.
A Geology degree opens doors to careers in environmental consulting, mining, and research. It combines practical skills with scientific knowledge valued by employers.
Typical A-level requirements include Geography, Chemistry, and Physics. Specific entry requirements vary by university, so always check course pages.
Graduates find roles in environmental consultancy, oil and gas, mining, academia, and government agencies.
There is steady demand for Geology graduates, especially in environmental sectors and resource management.
Starting salaries typically range between £22,000 and £30,000, increasing with experience and specialisation.
Courses with heavy fieldwork, advanced mineralogy, and geophysics tend to be more challenging but offer excellent career value.
Many work in environmental agencies, mining companies, government research, and consultancy firms.
Yes, Geology is respected for its mix of practical skills, scientific knowledge, and relevance to global challenges like sustainability.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
