2023/24 Taught Postgraduate Programme Catalogue

MSc Exploration Geophysics

Total credits: 180

Entry requirements:

A Bachelor's degree in geosciences (eg geology or geophysics) or a relevant numerate subject such as physics or mathematics, at UK Honours 2(1) level or better - or its international equivalent. Mathematics to a minimum of a good UK A-level or Advanced Higher standard. Computer literacy in MS Office/Windows environment. Lower qualifications may be considered on an ad hoc basis, supported by relevant professional industrial experience.

School/Unit responsible for the parenting of students and programme:

School of Earth and Environment

Examination board through which the programme will be considered:

School of Earth and Environment

Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Groups:

Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Environmental Studies (ES3)

Programme specification:

The programme will allow students to:

• develop a broad range of knowledge in order to allow professional practice in exploration geophysics, in either an academic or industrial context;
• be trained in relevant field and desk-based techniques for the practice of exploration geophysics;
• develop knowledge, appreciation and critical analysis of geological context to the application of geophysical exploration methods;
• gain an in-depth knowledge of Exploration Geophysics;
• develop numeracy skills essential to the professional practice of Exploration Geophysics;
• develop teamwork and professional skills essential to successful project completion in a professional exploration geophysical setting.

To fulfil these aims, the degree programme comprises:
• a 'core' of taught-course modules focussed on the theory, principles and practice of geophysical techniques;
• specialised 'module groups', focussed on the context and applications of geophysical methods, to hydrocarbon exploration;
• an independent project.

The strengths of the degree programme include:
• a learning experience within an environment of nationally and internationally recognised active research
• developed multi-disciplinary links within the School (eg Engineering geology, structural geology, hydrogeology)
• strong links with industry and other external institutions (eg government agencies, other HEIs) allowing participation by industry in class-based teaching
• an extensive inventory, regularly modernized and expanded, of field geophysical equipment
• extensive participation by industry in the provision of MSc dissertation projects
• extensive availability of industry-standard software for both taught-course and project work
• industrially-funded scholarships for UK and EC students.

In order to progress to project upon completion of their taught modules in Semester 2 students must have a pass at 50% or above in a minimum of 90 credits and an overall credit weighted average of at least 50% and normally no module marks can be below 40%. Students who do not meet these criteria will be suspended from progressing to project until after re-sits have been taken – these are normally taken in August. If after their re-sits the student has passed sufficient credits to allow them to potentially achieve an MSc, they will be allowed to progress to project at the next available opportunity - this is usually in the next academic year.

If a student has not achieved the minimum number of credits to progress to project after their re-sits, or they do not wish to continue to their project, they will be awarded either a Postgraduate Diploma or a Postgraduate Certificate dependent on the award criteria for their programme.

For the Award of an MSc, 150 credits must be accrued by successful completion of modules, and modules constituting the remaining 30 or less credits must be awarded marks of 40 or better. Ninety (90) credits must be accrued by successful completion of modules for the award of a PGDip; 60 credits are required for a PGCert.

Year1 - View timetable

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]

Compulsory modules:

Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

Optional modules:

Last updated: 12/05/2023 16:52:23

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