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Earth and Environmental Sciences

Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is based at the University of Exeter’s Penryn campus in Cornwall and comprises a School and two Centres; the Centre for Geography and Environmental Science (CGES); the Centre for Environmental Mathematics (CEM); and Camborne School of Mines (CSM). We have very close relationships with our other departments in Cornwall, the Centre for Ecology and Conservation, and Renewable Energy, and with the Environment and Sustainability Institute and the Global Systems Institute.

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences specialises in educating students in Environmental Sciences, Geography, Geology, Mining, Minerals, Applied Data Science and Marine Science. Our programs cover physical and social sciences, offering hands-on experience in environmental and climate change, sustainable development, and resource management. We provide academic and professional opportunities, including industry placements and study abroad.

Our research addresses global challenges with interdisciplinary approaches, focusing on climate and environmental change, low-carbon technologies, and social innovation. Leveraging Cornwall as our natural laboratory, we collaborate globally for geographically grounded yet globally relevant work. Our inclusive research environment supports a vibrant postgraduate community.

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3rd in the UK for Geology

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

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Top 50 in the world for Environmental Sciences

QS World University Subject Rankings 2024

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Top 5 in the UK for Earth and Marine Sciences

4th in The Guardian University Guide 2025

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6th in the UK for our world-leading research in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences

Based on 4* research in REF 2021

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