International Opportunities

My time in Strasbourg was an unforgettable experience.

Being in a lab all day every day for eight months at first seemed like a daunting prospect. But I soon became passionate about my project and enjoyed being in the lab.

In fact, the project became the favourite part of my time abroad. This was the first opportunity I’d had to carry out my own research. I could develop it and have a voice in directing where it went.

I have been fortunate enough to study both in Newcastle and Strasbourg. They are two cities that are friendly and welcoming.

Strasbourg is one of the prettiest cities I have visited. So as well as improving my Chemistry, I also enjoyed this beautiful city.

The key benefits of the year abroad process have been a massive improvement in my:

• lab abilities
• problem solving skills
• knowledge of French wine and cheese

Now, I have been able to return to Newcastle for my Masters in a much stronger position in Chemistry. I can apply all the skills learned to my Master’s research project and lectures.

The Study Abroad process has improved my job prospects. It stands me in good stead for the future as it shows that I can be:

• out of my comfort zone in a foreign country
• carry out a project gaining invaluable experience that stands me out from the crowd

Three top tips:

1. Go for it, immerse yourself in a different culture. This is a prime opportunity to do so.
2. Get a wider understanding of all the different cultures that the world has to offer.
3. Don’t worry, try everything.

Find out more about studying abroad

Learn how ecological data is helping conserve tropical forest species in Thailand.

• learn about specific pressures facing tropical forests
• explore data required to understand the status of vertebrates
• find out how data feeds into management of these species

Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve in Thailand provides the backdrop for research study. Students learn how to design a field investigation. They gather field data and analyse and report.

The emphasis is on study of population numbers and habitat use. The module features:

• presentations
• tutorial sessions
• fieldwork exercises, a range of which will be student-led

Located at the Lajuma Research Centre in South Africa. This module investigates human-modified tropical landscapes in relation to the:

• basics of ecology
• conservation and management challenges

Drawing on theory and practice from ecology, socio-ecology and conservation, you'll explore:

• conservation challenges
• data needs required to address challenges
• how data can help manage landscapes for both biodiversity and ecosystem services

During your studies, you’ll complete a project-based residential field course. Previous locations include Northumberland National Park, Millport and Crete. You can also take an optional mammal surveying skills module in the UK.

Our unique geographic location is close to a variety of natural habitats. These include:

• Northumberland National Park
• the stunning local coastline, including the Farne Islands

You can also opt to study abroad as part of your degree.

See our Biology & Zoology courses

Investigating the Sorbas Basin in Spain, you’ll explore international aspects of geology.

You'll understand the global significance of geological processes. This is with particular reference to cordillera formation.

The emphasis is on sedimentary basin development and associated sedimentary and tectonic phenomena.

The module develops skills in extracting information from rocks.

You’ll study GIS data flowline in a single package. This demonstrates the interconnectivity of the various elements of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Past locations for the field course include:

• Lake District
• Northumberland
• North Pennines

You will:

• be introduced to a variety of new technologies and analytical techniques
• be able to plan and structure activities as a group
• validate, analyse and present spatial information
• be introduced to core themes and technologies for Stage 3
• develop teamwork and core presentation skills

This module focuses on examination of rocks, including their formation and geological history.

We investigate the Lake District, an internationally renowned geological location.

You will:

• learn how to process GIS data using GIS Geoprocessing toolsets
• develop teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
• learn scientific report writing

Students learn how to create a geological map of a 1km2 area of Geltsdale, near Brampton, Cumbria.

You’ll identify:

• rock types
• map their location
• their relationship to other rock formations
• identify and map the presence of geological structures

You can also opt to study abroad as part of your degree.

See our Earth & Environmental courses

This field course explores exciting and diverse tropical habitats in Bermuda. These include:

• coral reefs
• mangrove forests
• coastal sand dunes
• inland caves
• uninhabited islands

We work in partnership with Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. The course investigates tropical habitats and wildlife.

This field course explores tropical habitats in Mexico. These include:

• seagrass beds
• mangrove forests
• coastal salt marshes and lagoons
• subterranean cenotes

In partnership with Ecoteknica, the course investigates unique marine environments.

This field course explores temperate habitats in Portugal. These include:

• exposed rocky shores
• estuaries
• aquaculture facilities
• fisheries activities
• cetacean watching

We work in partnership with CERES Field Studies Centre. We investigate the effects of commercial activities on the marine environment.

Newcastle’s unique geographic location is close to natural marine habitats. They provide the backdrop for fieldwork on the stunning Northumberland Coastline.

Many of these field sites are:

• Marine Conservation Zones (MCZ)
• Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)
• National Nature Reserves (NNR)
• Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

These include:

• the Farne Islands
• Lindisfarne (Holy Island) salt marshes and mudflats
• Druridge Bay
• St. Mary’s Island
• Cullercoats

Our costal research station, the Dove Marine Laboratory, supports our excursion fieldwork teaching.

You can also opt to study abroad as part of your degree.

See our Marine Science courses