Masters Degrees (Exploration Geology)

From the field to the lab, the knowledge you will gain in this course will help drive advancements in areas such as petroleum exploration, or mineral exploration.

This course provides advanced technical training for professionals intending to upgrade their geology qualifications or to enter a new branch of geoscience. This is achieved by attendance at lectures, seminars and group discussions, and the preparation and submission of a thesis-based research project.

Each major in this course comprises core units together with optional units in geology and related disciplines. Note that unit availability is often limited to specific semesters, which may affect the order in which you can take each unit. You will specialise in basin analysis and petroleum geology or mineral exploration and mining geology. You will complete a supervised project related to your stream, usually in collaboration with industry or government partners.

Basin Analysis and Petroleum Geology

Sedimentary basins contain a unique record of the tectonic, structural and sedimentological processes that created them. By understanding these processes, often using subsurface data sets, we can gain insights into the valuable energy resources that they contain. This stream will provide you with the technical and practical skills that you need to evaluate petroleum systems and to pursue a career in hydrocarbon exploration or production.

Mineral Exploration and Mining Geology

The mining industry is critical to our future. Without fossil fuels for power generation, silicon chips for computer chips, fertiliser for bumper harvests, metal for cars and buildings, and many raw materials for other growing industries, our current standard of living could not be maintained. This stream offers detailed knowledge of mining operations and mineral systems. You will learn about the principal types of ore deposits, the fundamentals of mineral exploration, collecting and displaying geophysical data, geochemical processes and magnetics theory, among other topics. This stream provides specialised technical and professional training for graduates in geology or closely related disciplines.

Career opportunities

This course can open up a wide range of geoscience career opportunities depending on your choice of units.

Credit for previous study

Applications for recognition of prior learning (RPL) are assessed on an individual basis.

Other notes

There is considerable flexibility in the course structure with some units available in a concentrated, short-course format. Part of the research project may be undertaken in a short, intensive period.

2016 Curtin International Scholarships: Merit Scholarship

Curtin University is an inspiring, vibrant, international organisation, committed to making tomorrow better. It is a beacon for innovation, driving advances in technology through high-impact research and offering more than 100 practical, industry-aligned courses connecting to workplaces of tomorrow.

Ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2015, the University is also ranked 25th in the world for universities under the age of 50 in the QS World University Rankings 2015 Curtin also received an overall five-star excellence rating in the QS stars rating.

Curtin University strives to give high achieving international students the opportunity to gain an internationally recognised education through offering the Merit Scholarship. The Merit Scholarship will give you up to 25 per cent of your first year tuition fees and if you enrol in an ELB program at Curtin English before studying at Curtin, you will also receive a 10 per cent discount on your Curtin English fees.

For full details and terms and conditions of this scholarship, please visit: curtin.edu/int-scholarships and click on Merit.

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Sustaining a growing population on our dynamic planet requires deep understanding of geological and geophysical processes within the Earth, and of how they interact with the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biota. The Master's Programme in Geology and Geophysics trains you to address pressing questions concerning our home planet's evolution, its role as the source of raw materials needed by modern civilisation, and environmental issues. Key questions include:
-How can we decode Earth’s rock record to reveal the evolution of Earth’s crust and mantle over billions of years?
-How do we make natural resource exploration and extraction more sustainable and environmentally friendly?
-What can the Earth’s history tell us to help us forecast the impacts of climate change?
-Where can we safely construct power plants or store nuclear waste?

The programme includes four specialist options: Petrology and Economic Geology; Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology; Palaeontology and Global Change; and Solid Earth Geophysics.

Upon completion of the programme, you will have gained expertise in a number of scientific and professional skills, including, depending on your specialist option:
-Assessment of geological materials (minerals, rock types, bedrock, groundwater).
-Understanding the genesis and sustainable use of mineral commodities.
-Sustainable use of the environment from the Earth Science perspective.
-Palaeontology and modelling global change using the geological record.
-The physical evolution of the Earth (plate tectonics, interplay of the mantle and crust).
-Independent and team-driven project research.
-High-level scientific writing (M.Sc. thesis and related work).
-Presentation of scientific results to scientists, students, and the general public.

The University of Helsinki will introduce annual tuition fees to foreign-language Master’s programmes starting on August 1, 2017 or later. The fee ranges from 13 000-18 000 euros. Citizens of non-EU/EEA countries, who do not have a permanent residence status in the area, are liable to these fees. You can check this FAQ at the Studyinfo website whether or not you are required to pay tuition fees: https://studyinfo.fi/wp2/en/higher-education/higher-education-institutions-will-introduce-tuition-fees-in-autumn-2017/am-i-required-to-pay-tuition-fees/

Programme Contents

At the beginning of the advanced studies, you will familiarise yourself with the central research methods in the field. The studies consist of intensive learning in small groups on practical work courses, guided laboratory work on specialised courses, and tailored short-term courses led by international and Finnish experts. In addition, you will be able to take part are a variety of field courses and excursions (in Finland and beyond) to familiarise yourself with research topics in their natural surroundings.

Selection of the Major

As a student in the Master’s Programme in Geology and Geophysics, you are free to choose among the four specialist options offered:
In Petrology and Economic Geology you will study solid rock, mineral material and associated fluid systems, with targets ranging from the microscopic (and submicroscopic) scale to continents. The focus is on study of magmatic systems (volcanic and plutonic); the composition, lithology and structure of bedrock; evolution of continental crust and mantle; and the origin and assessment of economically important commodities in rock systems.

Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology combines understanding of earth surface systems such as 3D sedimentary environments, groundwater and low temperature geochemistry. The specialist option is based on practical training using top-notch analytical facilities and survey methods in cooperation with industry and authorities. In addition to basic research, the line aims to build your expertise for future careers.

Palaeontology and Global Change deals with the changing conditions and evolution of life on Earth. Research topics include fossil mammals and their environments during the last 25 million years, the environmental and evolutionary context of early humans in Africa, and the history of climate change and ecosystems during the last 100,000 years. The effect of humankind on the biosphere is a multidisciplinary topic.

Solid Earth Geophysics combines geology with geophysics to study the structure of the Earth’s interior and the physical processes related to its evolution. These ideas are not only crucial for understanding phenomena such as earthquake and volcanic activity related to Plate Tectonics, but also important for exploration of natural resources, environmental studies and engineering, for example.

Programme Structure

A Master’s degree in Geology and Geophysics requires 120 credits (ECTS) and is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. The study requirements are:
-Advanced studies in your specialist option (60-70 credits).
-Joint studies in topics related to your specialist option (25-30 credits).
-Master’s thesis (30 credits).

Career Prospects

Expert geoscientists are in demand and employed in a range of fields nationally and internationally. Recent graduates have gone on to pursue:
-Employment in the mining and mineral resource exploration industry.
-Work as environmental and groundwater scientists in private companies and in the public sector.
-Doctoral studies in geoscience or geophysics both in Finland and abroad.
-Research work on the geology of Finland at the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK).
-Work as experts in the field of engineering geology and applied mineralogy.

Research Focus

There are many ongoing interdisciplinary research projects in the Faculty of Science. These projects are conducted in active cooperation with research institutes on the Kumpula Science Campus, as well as with other faculties, universities, and private industry.

The field of Geosciences is broad, and our research focus covers multiple branches of it. Some of the main interests at the moment include environmental topics related to groundwater and contaminated soils, the genesis of plutonic and volcanic igneous rocks, evolutionary palaeontology of mammals based on fossil teeth, and the structure and evolution of the continental crust. We are focusing on scientific research that makes it possible to understand geological processes and the structure of the Earth using our modern and diverse laboratory infrastructure.

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This full time 12 month intensive programme is designed to provide advanced specialised training for earth science graduates, leading to excellent employment opportunities in the extractive industry. It is suitable for those who already have an honours degree in geology, mining/minerals engineering or a related subject.

You will attain a comprehensive understanding of the role of a geoscientist working in the mining industry. New skills include underground geological and geotechnical mapping, surveying, mineral exploration, ore microscopy, ore deposit modelling and mine planning. In-depth coverage of mineral resource estimation and grade control, mineral extraction and management, mining law and the environmental impact of mining, enable skills in quantifying the economic value of an ore body and assessing its potential for exploitation to be attained. There is emphasis on acquiring knowledge of the geological characteristics and genesis, methods of exploration, extraction and processing techniques of the major types of metalliferous ore deposit, bulk commodities and industrial minerals.

Taught modules are presented over two semesters and individual projects are undertaken throughout the summer vacation, often as industrial placements with a mining/exploration company. Recent projects have been carried out in all major mining countries on six continents, including Australia, Tanzania, Mongolia, Chile as well as in the UK.

Programme Structure

You will study 180 credits to obtain an MSc and 120 credits for a PgDip

Compulsory modules

The compulsory modules can include; Research Project and Dissertation; Resource Estimation; Ore Deposit Geology and Industrial Minerals; Techniques in Mining Geology ; Excavation and Geomechanics ; Economics, Processing & Environment

Optional modules

Some examples of the optional modules are; Advanced Techniques for Mineral Analysis and Mine Wastes: Principles, Monitoring and Remediation.

The modules listed here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand

Learning and teaching

Formal teaching ends in late April/May with a field excursion to examine the geology and visit mines in an area of the world famous for its mining activity. Extensive use is made of Camborne School of Mines' underground mine facilities, laboratories, mineral processing pilot plant, and the superb field geology and extractive industry operations in South West England.

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• High level education covering the whole mine value chain
• Shared courses in geosciences and engineering, including both theory and practice
• Excellent, cutting-edge infrastructure for research and education in close cooperation with the mining industry
The international master´s degree programme in Mineral Resources and Sustainable Mining (MRSM) is a two-year programme focusing on education in mining-related subjects. The programme provides master’s degrees in two fields: geosciences and engineering.

The specialisation lines in the field of geosciences are Economic Geology and Quaternary Geology and in the field of engineering sciences, they are Mining Engineering, Mineral Processing, and Applied Geophysics.

The programme will give you excellent skills and understanding on the whole mine value chain and principles of sustainable mining, including:
• Theoretical studies in geosciences and engineering
• Economical and environmental aspects of mining
• Hands-on practice in the well-equipped Oulu Mining School Research Centre and in the field
• The latest modelling and simulation education related to the topics
• Instrumental skills in mineral analytics

The two-year programme has five specialisation options:
Economic Geology focuses on characterisation of mineral deposits and geological processes behind their genesis, forming a basis for mineral exploration. Central topics include ore geology, regional geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, mining industry, and exploration. The obtained proficiency can be used in mineral exploration or exploitation of natural resources in private companies or research institutes.

Quaternary Geology covers a wide range of sub-disciplines including glacial geology, sedimentology, ore prospecting techniques, and hydrogeology. Education is also covering global change issues in the northern hemisphere and the Arctic. The programme will give in depth understanding of the properties of glacial sediments and deposits, their genesis and use for ore prospecting and for geotechnical purposes.

Mining Engineering covers a wide range of topics, including geotechnique, mining technologies, analysis of production capacity, and financing. The expertise can be used in design and management of metal mines as well as in other operations related to exploitation of raw materials.

Mineral Processing deals with the processes to economically separate valuable minerals from the ores. Oulu Mining School has unique, continuous mode in-house concentrating plant that provides an excellent infrastructure for training and education purposes. The environmental aspects of processing, health and safety in the plants, and collaboration with the mining industry are essential parts of education.

Applied geophysics concentrates on the basic phenomena in geophysics and how to apply the knowledge for example in exploration, mapping and management of natural resources, and in environmental and engineering studies. In the life cycle of a mine, geophysics plays an important role in all stages: before opening the mine in mineral exploration and resource assessment, during active mining operations in exploration for additional resources and environmental monitoring, and after the closure of the mine in environmental monitoring and mapping of potentially contaminated areas.

Graduating students understand and govern the technical, geological, financial, regulatory, environmental and social aspects of sustainable mining. Job opportunities exist in all fields related to the mining value chain including exploration, mining, mineral processing, and other kinds of rock engineering both in the industry and in research.

For all enquiries, please refer to our enquiry form: http://www.oulu.fi/university/admissions-contact

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Overview

This programme is the only applied structural geology Masters in the UK. It provides advanced training in the practical application of structural geology, preparing you either for employment in the hydrocarbon or mining industries or for postgraduate study (PhD).

You’ll gain a skillset combining advanced structural techniques and interpreting seismic data, an understanding of structural systems in time and space, and an appreciation of both the geological and geophysical constraints of seismic interpretation and model building. This will allow you to use a combination of structural and geophysical techniques to solve geological problems. As a capable seismic interpreter you’ll be able to contribute in an industry role from day one.

Our teaching is research led, with direct links to active applied research. You’ll be taught by a range of research and industry experts, as well as through industry-led workshops. Strong industry links are a feature of this programme.

Course highlights:

• The only applied structural geology masters in the UK, offering you a route to both industry or a PhD.
• Unlike other petroleum/ ore geoscience courses in the UK, which only provide you with broad training in all aspects of petroleum and ore geology. At Leeds, apply your skills, tools, and knowledge in structural geology and tectonics to exploration settings, datasets, and problems.
• A key focus of this masters is on understanding structural evolution in various settings and the use of 3D and 4D thinking in geological contexts. Skills that are essential for your employment in industry.
• Gain an international standard of Masters qualification in 12 months rather than 24. We deliver focused, advanced teaching linked to a research project (in contrast to the more research-oriented US Masters).
• Undertake FREE fieldwork in the UK and EU that is directly linked to your classroom learning.
• Depending on your interests, choose from hydrocarbon andmining module options.
• Access industry-standard computing facilities and software.
• In your final year produce an industry or research focused dissertation.

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Overview

This two year Masters is designed to meet the demanding and evolving needs of industry, equipping you with the tools to be highly skilled petroleum explorationists. It aims to prepare you for classic, conventional exploration and develop your skills to meet the changing needs of unconventional exploration.

This programme integrates the strengths of two leading universities, offering you training in petroleum exploration that is unique from any other course globally.

The University of Leeds is a Russell Group University established in 1904. Research-led teaching and commitment to excellence, creates a dynamic learning environment and makes Leeds one of the UK’s top universities.

Jacobs University is a private, English language, residential university, distinguished by its international orientation and highly selective admission, based on candidates’ academic and personal potential. First-class research and teaching, international diversity and trans-disciplinary cooperation are the hallmarks of this state-recognised university.

Course highlights:

• The programme combines the strengths of the University of Leeds in applied geophysics and structural geology with the strengths of Jacobs University in petroleum system modelling and organic geochemistry.
• Undertake FREE fieldwork in the UK and EU that is directly linked to your classroom learning.
• Access a comprehensive suite of industry-standard software that will enhance your learning.
• Attend the Jacobs Basin Dynamics Hydrocarbon Conference and learn from experts within industry and academia who share their experience and insights.
• In your final year, enter the Imperial Barrel Award, run by the American Association of Petroleum Geologist - a leading international professional body for the hydrocarbons industry. This award provides you with a realistic exploration exercise at the same time as giving you an opportunity to compete with other universities at both a European and international levels.

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Memorial University of Newfoundland has one of the largest and most diverse Earth Science departments in Canada. With 30 faculty members, 15 staff members, and leading-edge teaching and research facilities, the department is able to offer high quality graduate degree programs. Graduates of Memorial’s Department of Earth Sciences have gone on to careers in academia, government, and the private sector.

The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is an excellent natural laboratory in which to study Earth Sciences and many of our courses have field-based components. The cross-section of geology that can be studied in Newfoundland and Labrador is unparalleled and spans a large part of Earth’s history. Our department’s long-standing, excellent reputation is, in part, due to its close proximity to this world-class geology.

Memorial’s Department of Earth Sciences maintains close ties to the mining and petroleum industries of Canada, the USA, and elsewhere. Each year, leading petroleum and mineral exploration companies recruit at Memorial University because of the excellent education and training our students receive, and have taken with them throughout the world.

The MSc program is offered in both Geology and Geophysics, and involves courses and a thesis. The MSc can be completed in two years of full-time study.

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This course is designed for those who have completed an undergraduate geoscience degree and wish to enhance their career prospects with an additional qualification and for graduates of related disciplines thinking of a geoscience career.

In this course you will undertake one of three majors to suit your interest area and career aspirations: basin analysis and petroleum, mineral exploration and mining. These majors cater for the minerals, groundwater and petroleum employment areas.

To complete the course you will take a range of coursework units in your chosen specialty and at least one individual research project involving practical laboratory work and/or fieldwork.

Career opportunities

Graduates who complete the basin and analysis and petroleum, mineral exploration, mining or environment geoscience majors are trained specifically for employment in the minerals, groundwater or petroleum industries.
Graduates without an undergraduate qualification in geology or a closely related field may need to undertake further study at master level before embarking on a geoscience career.

Credit for previous study

Applications for recognition of prior learning (RPL) are assessed on an individual basis.

Other notes

There is considerable flexibility in the course structure with some units available in a concentrated, short-course format. Part of the research project may be undertaken in a short, intensive period.

2016 Curtin International Scholarships: Merit Scholarship

Curtin University is an inspiring, vibrant, international organisation, committed to making tomorrow better. It is a beacon for innovation, driving advances in technology through high-impact research and offering more than 100 practical, industry-aligned courses connecting to workplaces of tomorrow.

Ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2015, the University is also ranked 25th in the world for universities under the age of 50 in the QS World University Rankings 2015 Curtin also received an overall five-star excellence rating in the QS stars rating.

Curtin University strives to give high achieving international students the opportunity to gain an internationally recognised education through offering the Merit Scholarship. The Merit Scholarship will give you up to 25 per cent of your first year tuition fees and if you enrol in an ELB program at Curtin English before studying at Curtin, you will also receive a 10 per cent discount on your Curtin English fees.

For full details and terms and conditions of this scholarship, please visit: curtin.edu/int-scholarships and click on Merit.

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The MRes in Geological Sciences is a full-time programme running over 12 months from the date of first registration for the programme. Applications will be accepted for a start date in October or January. The programme consists of (a) a major research thesis and (b) taught modules on generic and transferable skills, with an emphasis on scientific writing, oral presentations, and general research skills. Part-time study for this programme is not available.

Prospective students are advised to contact the Programme Coordinator (Prof. Andy Wheeler [email protected] in advance of application via http://www.pac.ie (PAC code CKS82) to discuss possible project areas.

Visit the website: https://www.ucc.ie/en/bees/courses/postgrad/

Course detail

Students undertake a total workload equivalent to 90 credits over the 12 month programme, the principal element of which is the completion of a major research thesis of approximately 25,000 words. In parallel, students must take and pass taught modules to the value of 20 credits.

Modules

Students take 20 credits from the following available modules:

GL6002 Igneous and Metamorphic Terrain Mapping (10 credits)
GL6003 Coal Exploration (5 credits)
GL6005 Basin Analysis and Sedimentary Fancies Analysis (10 credits)
GL6006 Geotechnical Investigations of Soils and Rocks (5 credits)
GL6007 Practical Offshore Geological Exploration (5 credits)
GL6008 Geological Application of Geographical Information Systems (5 credits)
GL6010 Field Exploration Methods and Professional Development (5 credits)
GL6011 Structural Geology for Hydrocarbon Exploration (5 credits)
GL6012 Structural Geology for Mineral Exploration (5 credits)
GL6013 Geology of Ore Deposits (5 credits)
GL4002 Petroleum Geology and Basin Analysis (5 credits)
GL4003 Applied Geophysics (5 credits)
GL4004 Advanced Igneous Processes (5 credits)
GL4011 Economic Geology (5 credits)
GL4024 Exceptional Glimpses of Ancient Life (5 credits)
GL4027 Geochemistry (5 credits)

Students may elect to take other, relevant modules (subject to availability) that are offered by the University that are not listed above to fulfil the elective requirement with approval from the MRes coordinator, research supervisor and Head of School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science.

Students will also undertake independent research towards completion of a research thesis to a student workload equivalent of 70 credits on a selected topic in Geological Science.

Current projects

- Palynology and palynofacies of the Booley Bay Formation of Co.Wexford
- Palaeoenvironments recorded in the Lias of Northern Ireland
- Taphonomy of insects in the Daohuguo Konservat-Lagerstätte (Jurassic, Inner Mongolia)
- Characterising deformation in unconsolidated sediments
- Early tectonic fabric development in sedimentary rocks
- Petrological and structural mapping of the Fanad Lineament, Co. Donegal
- Quantifying the climate-controlled Pleistocene erosion of the Irish landmass (over the last 2.5 ma)

Programme Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

- Carry out an independent and original research project to address an emerging question in Geological Sciences.
- Prepare and write a dissertation of their research project in a critical, logical and systematic manner, in keeping with the standards of postgraduate research.
- Display advanced theoretical knowledge and practical understanding within a research area of Geological Science.
- Understand the basis and application of field and laboratory methods used in Geological Science and a knowledge of their limitations
- Avail of relevant workshops or modules to increase scientific technical skills
- Source, review, critically assess and evaluate relevant primary literature and summarize material for presentation to peers and for inclusion within the research dissertation.
- Design, write and defend a scientific research proposal based on their current research topic or a proposed topic.
- Evaluate their skill set and identify skills that should be acquired.
- Develop professional practice skills including team-work, negotiation, time-management, scientific writing and oral communication.

How to apply

MRes Animal and Plant Science Brochure: https://www.ucc.ie/en/media/academic/schoolofbees/documents/MResinAnimalandPlantScience.pdf

Prospective students should also consult the following guide to procedures realting to applying for the MRes Animal and Plant Science: https://www.ucc.ie/en/media/academic/schoolofbees/documents/MResinANimalandplantscience-Studentguidetoproceduresbeforeandafterentrytotheprogramme24March2016.pdf

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Overview

Geophysics is the remote study of the Earth through physical techniques – principally analysing seismic data, but also applying gravity, magnetic, electromagnetic, and electrical methods. It is a key element of oil, gas and mineral exploration, environmental and archaeological assessment, and engineering site investigation.

This course prepares you to embark on a career in resource exploration, environmental and engineering geophysics. Running for over 50 years it is well-established and has strong links to industry. It provides you with a broad range of practical skills, underpinned by a theoretical understanding that equips you to become a professional in your chosen field. You will also undertake a four-month individual project, mostly in association with an external company or institute and often in their offices.

Demand for geophysicists continues to be high and this well-established programme has an exceptionally good record of job placement for both UK/EU and overseas students.

Course highlights:

• Network with energy, geophysical acquisition, processing and software companies, who visit regularly to engage and recruit our students.
• Undertake a four-month individual project, mostly in association with an external company or institute and often in their offices.
• Access our state-of-the-art computer suite that runs a comprehensive range of industry-standard software on hi-spec twin-screen workstations.
• Develop your field skills with our sector-leading portfolio of field geophysical equipment.
• Apply for an industry scholarships - we have the largest number of Masters-level geophysics industry scholarships available for UK/EU students.

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Summary

This programme provides broad knowledge of marine geological and geophysical techniques and advanced training in marine geophysical exploration techniques, mathematical modelling, geodynamics, coastal processes, micropalaeontology or palaeoceanographic expertise.

You will gain hands-on research experience through an advanced project with leading international researchers. The MRes focuses less on taught modules and more on the research project (about two-thirds of the year).

Modules

Semester one:

Core modules: Contemporary Topics in Ocean and Earth Science; Introduction to Marine Geology; plus one from Introduction to Chemical Oceanography or Introduction to Physical Oceanography

Optional modules: Applied and Marine Geophysics; Basin Analysis; Coastal Sediment Dynamics; Computational Data Analysis for Geophysicists and Ocean Scientists; Geodynamics and Solid Earth Geophysics; Microfossils, Environments and Time

Semester two:

Optional modules: Applied Coastal Sediment Dynamics; Ecological Modelling; Global Climate Cycles;
High-resolution Marine Geophysics

Plus research project

Visit our website for further information...

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This is one of the premier international applied MSc courses with a focus on petroleum exploration and production. It is run in parallel with the Basin Evolution and Dynamics MSc in Petroleum Geocsience but with a greater emphasis on tectonics and structural geology. In addition to successful employment in the international petroleum industry graduates from this course are employed in the international mining industry as well as being highly sought after for further PhD research in the geosciences.

● Recognised by Industry - Industry scholarships

● We offer highly focused teaching and training by internationally recognised academic experts as well as by visiting staff from the petroleum and remote sensing industries.

The course covers the applications of tectonics and structural geology to hydrocarbon exploration and production as well as to applied structural geology research in different terranes. The course is modular in form providing intensive learning and training in tectonics, applied structural geology, seismic interpretation of structural styles, tectonostratigraphic analysis, section balancing and reconstruction, remote sensing, crustal fluids and hydrocarbon systems, reservoir geology, and applied geological fieldwork.

The MSc course provides ‘state of the art’ training in –
● Plate tectonics and terrane analysis;
● Applied structural analysis;
● 3D seismic interpretation and 3D visualization of structural styles;
● Fault analysis and fault-sealing;
● Tectonostratigraphic analysis;
● Scaled analogue modelling;
● Numerical modelling of structures;
● Remote sensing analysis of satellite and radar imagery;
● Analysis of gravity and magnetic data;
● Section balancing and reconstruction;
● Applied structural fieldwork.

● Transferable skills learned during the course include
project planning, presentation techniques, report writing and compilation, team working skills, spreadsheet and statistical analyses, GIS methods as well as graphics and visualization techniques.

● The full time MSc course runs for 50 weeks. The first half comprises one and two week course modules as well as group projects and fieldwork. The second half of the MSc course consists of an individual research project usually carried out in conjunction with the petroleum industry or related institutions such as international geological surveys.

● Part time study over 24 months is also available

● Each year independent projects are arranged with new data sets from industry – some students work in the offices of the company whereas other may use our excellent in-house facilities. All independent projects are supervised by faculty members with additional industry supervision where appropriate.

Facilities include –
● Dedicated Modern Teaching Laboratories
● Internationally Recognised Structural Modelling Laboratories
● 14 Dual Screen Unix Seismic Workstations
● PC and Macintosh Workstations
● Advanced Sedimentological Laboratories

The MSc course also greatly benefits from dynamic interaction with internationally recognised research groups within the Geology Department including –

● Project EAGLE – Evolution of the African and Arabian rift system – Professor Cindy Ebinger
● Southeast Asia Research Group – tectonic evolution and basin development in SE Asia – Professor Robert Hall
● Numerical Modelling Research Group – Numerical modelling of tectonics and sedimentation – Dr Dave Waltham
● Fault Dynamics Research Group – Dynamics of Fault Systems in Sedimentary Basins – Professor Ken McClay

Our Tectonics MSc graduates have gained employment with Shell, BP, ECL, PGS, Sipetrol, PGL, Codelco, and to PhD research in a range of universities including Trieste, Barcelona, and Ulster universities.
Since 2001, 85% of our Petroleum Geosciences MSc graduates have gone in to work in the oil industry, 10% into geological research and 5% into environmental/engineering jobs.

Accommodation is available on campus in en-suite study bedrooms grouped in flats of eight, each with a communal kitchen and dining space.

Subsistence Costs ~£9,000 pa (including Hall of Residence fees of c. £4,500 for a full year)

APPLICATIONS can be made on line at http://www.rhul.ac.uk/Registry/Admissions/applyonline.html

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The course is taught over one year, full time, by a mix of Basins Group staff and industry professionals. A range of geological and geophysical subjects are taught covering the hydrocarbon industry value chain from acquisition, exploration and appraisal to development and production. A multidisciplinary approach takes students through investigation of outcrop analogues as well as geophysical investigation of subsurface hydrocarbon systems.

The course is aimed at recent graduates as well as individuals with some industrial experience. Content is advised on by industrial partners with the aim of maintaining relevance to company needs. As part of the course training is provided in technical areas such as core logging and industry standard software. The course provides an thorough grounding for work in the hydrocarbon industry, or further PhD research.

Why study at Manchester?

-2016 QS World University Ranking places Manchester as the 29th best university in the world, and the seventh best in the UK.
-Teaching is integrated with the Basin Studies Research Group, one of the largest and most experienced teams in UK, with added strength and depth derived from dedicated external teachers.
-No additional costs. Fieldwork, field equipment and final project are included in fee.
-Unrivalled teaching and research facilities. Dedicated MSc Petroleum Geoscience computing lab with a workstation for each student.
-Field classes tailored to industry demand.
-Huge range in final projects from field studies to subsurface datasets. Many projects linked to company datasets. Students showcase projects at an end of course conference.
-Good employment record. Recent students employed with Statoil, Shell, ERCL, etc.
-Many students continue on to PhD study.
-Manchester is a vibrant, centrally located city.

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The Applied Petroleum Geoscience programme is a unique programme in subsurface geoscience and exploration at Heriot-Watt University.

This year-long MSc mainly focuses on petroleum geoscience, but it is closely linked with other MSc programmes and research groups in petroleum engineering and reservoir geology at Heriot-Watt's Institute of Petroleum Engineering. The programme is also applicable to non-petroleum subsurface geoscience subjects, such as CO2 storage and groundwater flow.

More information about the MSc is available in Heriot-Watt's online prospectus: http://www.postgraduate.hw.ac.uk/prog/msc-petroleum-geoscience-petgeo-/

About the programme

The MSc in Applied Petroleum Geoscience provides students with a thorough training in aspects of subsurface geology, geophysics and geo-engineering, relating to the exploration, appraisal and development of subsurface resources.

Although the programme mainly focuses on exploration for hydrocarbon resources, and delineation of hydrocarbon reservoirs in the subsurface, the skills and knowledge learned in this subject are applicable to all subsurface geoscience areas, including groundwater exploration, waste disposal or CO2 sequestration.

Project work, both as groups and individually is part of the programme. Two fieldtrips are also a permanent part of the course.

Topics covered:
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• Reservoir Concepts
• Petroleum Basins
• Formation Evaluation
• Reservoir Sedimentology
• Geomechanics and Flow Mechanics
• Petroleum Systems Analysis
• Petroleum Geophysics
• Stratigraphy and Reservoir Quality

For more information on the programme content, including course descriptions, please visit: https://www.hw.ac.uk/study/uk/postgraduate/petroleum-geoscience-petgeo.htm

Professional recognition

The Applied Petroleum Geoscience MSc is accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) and Energy Institute (EI).

Career opportunities

Recent graduates of the Applied Petroleum Geoscience MSc have gone into further research or to work in geoscience departments of major oil and gas companies as well as industry service organisations, contractors and small local companies. Companies who have employed some of the past students include Shell and Petroceltic here in the UK, and a number of other companies worldwide including Tullow, GNPC, and Total.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, or your first degree was not taught in English, we’ll need to see evidence of your English language ability. The minimum requirement for English language is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

We offer a range of English language courses: http://www.hw.ac.uk/study/english.htm

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Your programme of study

This course is ideally situated to take advantage of the oil and gas industry in Aberdeen city and its industry experts who also have a strong input into the programme content and structure. This combination of academic overview and industry expertise ensures that you have a good range of skills and knowledge which is applicable to the global oil and gas and energy market so ideal if you are international or work or want to work internationally. Your skills are ideally placed to scope out maximising oil field recovery from declining field areas on top of upstream geoscience knowledge from initial exploration to mature and declining field recovery.

Aberdeen has been running this programme since 1973 to the current day, learning with the energy industry which is located in Aberdeen itself. This means that the programme is not only robust drawing on historical learning relevant to the current day, but highly regarded internationally. This strength of knowledge feeds down directly to you as a student and afterwards as a highly trained professional within the energy market.

Regarded as the best of its kind in the world the programme gives you vocational training in geoscience skills for minerals exploration and production, including: seismic interpretation, petrophysical analysis, geochemical evaluation, sedimentology, structural analysis, and reservoir modelling.

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1
Geophysics and Petrophysics
Applied Sedimentology

Semester 2
Production Geology
Regional Exploration
Professional Skills Incorporating Field Trip

Semester 3
Project in Integrated Petroleum Geosciences

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/138/integrated-petroleum-geoscience/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• One of the best in the world in the heart of the European oil industry in Aberdeen
• The programme focuses on upstream geoscience from initial exploration to recovering declining fields
• You learn how to work in multidisciplinary teams involved in hydrocarbon exploration
• You join 98% of graduates in the past decade employed immediately in the oil and gas industry

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full time

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees:
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:
• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:
https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

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