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Volcanology at Lancaster University - UCAS

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2025 - 20262026 - 2027
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There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

Volcanoes are fascinating phenomena that are simultaneously spectacular and dangerous. They can both create and destroy our habitats and human-made infrastructure in addition to causing disruption and economic impacts. As over a billion people worldwide live close to an active volcano, effective hazard management underpins the lives and livelihoods of many. Our MSc Volcanology will develop your expertise in, and understanding of, volcanic activity and its interaction with the wider environment. Taught by our world-leading environmental scientists, we very much believe that getting out into the field is essential to your studies, and Lancaster is perfectly placed to do this with the striking volcanic rocks of the Lake District on our doorstep. Volcanoes can be analysed and studied in many ways, not just out in the field. You will also develop laboratory and computer-based skills to better analyse and evaluate environmental and volcanological phenomena. Who is this programme for? Those looking to get a deeper understanding of volcanology to progress their career in the environment/geoscience sector, or as a step towards research with a PhD. Looking ahead to employability We develop your transferrable skills so that when you graduate you are well positioned for opportunities in industry or research. You will:

  • Gain crucial field working skills including relating fundamental principles to complex real-world observations, such as use of volcanic rock textures to reconstruct volcanic behaviour, or characterisation of slope stability from field observations and physical models
  • Develop your ability to think critically, assess problems and design solutions
  • Learn how to build a rationale for management or intervention
  • Communicate your ideas effectively
What to expect Volcanoes are the most recognisable sign of Earth's dynamic interior. Multifaceted interactions between magma, water and air generate a myriad of volcanic phenomena that can be unravelled through field, laboratory and numerical study. Volcanic deposits provide evidence of physical processes that pose hazards local and global. Taught by world-leading experts in the field, you will start with a core module in physical volcanology where you learn widely applicable physical and chemical principles that underpin volcanic activity, including the rheology of magma, the behaviour of eruption-triggering volcanic gases and the transport of lava and ash to the surface and atmosphere. You have an additional core model that covers broader geological hazards, including volcanic, seismic and landslide hazards, and provides training in fieldwork and technical report writing. Your third core module provides an interdisciplinary overview of broader environmental challenges using a set of local case studies in and around the nearby English Lake District. This highlights context and is an important context communication experience. Then select three additional optional modules to suit your interests. One of these is the highly popular field course to Mount Etna on Sicily, to see an active volcano close up. Whatever your selection, each module is carefully designed to develop your broader learning and practical skills in that area. Your Master’s culminates in a dissertation project under the supervision of one of our internationally recognised researchers, taking advantage of our well-equipped experimental and geochemical laboratories. Three things we would like you to know
  • Lancaster is ideally situated for environmental study with volcanic rocks on its doorstep in the Lake District
  • Over 100 graduates of this Master's are in successful careers in industry, academia and research
  • Join our volcanology research group offering peer support, access to research and networking opportunities

Assessment method

Assessment methods include: Coursework, presentations, examinations and dissertation.

Entry requirements

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in Geology, Earth Science, Natural Science or Environmental Science or similar. We may also consider non-standard applicants at a 2:2 degree level in a related subject, alongside relevant experience or training in volcanology, specific volcanology research, field work or broader contributions to environmental science. Applicants with a 2:1 degree in Engineering, Maths/Statistics, English or Physics are encouraged to contact is for further information. We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously. We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

For information about fees and funding please visit our website: www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding.
Volcanology at Lancaster University - UCAS