The Structural Geology with Geophysics MSc is a unique and globally leading Masters programme. This course will provide you with the advanced theoretical and practical training needed to flourish in a career in applied structural geology both across a range of geo-energy industries and as preparation for independent academic research.
Fundamental to the emerging Energy Transition is the need to understand structural controls in the sub-surface, for both renewable and traditional energy acquisition/storage. This course will focus on the practical application of structural geology, preparing you for employment in a breadth of energy and resource facing industries, including geothermal, hydrothermal, CCS (carbon capture and storage), hydrocarbons, rare minerals and ores, energy and hydrogen storage and shallow hazard risking.
You will gain a skillset combining advanced structural techniques and interpretation and assimilation of sub-surface data, an understanding of structural systems in time and space, at a geodynamic, basin and resource scale. You will develop an appreciation of both the geological and geophysical constraints of sub-surface interpretation and model building and the associated uncertainties
A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) or above in a geological, geophysical, environmental geology, mining or related subject. Mathematics to A-level is also preferred, although GSCE level is accepted.
If you have a lower qualification and a non-standard geology degree, you may be considered on an ad-hoc basis, supported by relevant experience. You may also have to take an entrance exam.
Fees are listed on our website
Please see our website for funding opportunities.
There is a need for well-trained structural geologists with geophysical skills and training, within both the hydrocarbons and minerals industries, but also within sectors such as geothermal and hydrothermal energy and carbon sequestration. With a Masters being generally considered as a good level to enter into a career within the resource exploration industry the longer-term employment prospects are very good, with many companies targeting the course directly for recruitment.
We maintain excellent links with industry and professional bodies and many energy and service-sector companies engage directly with our students via specific company recruitment talks and workshops held throughout the year. Other opportunities for recruitment can arise from project placements and the final presentations day at the close of the programme in September.
You will develop transferable skills, from 4D thinking, time management, and critical and analytical thinking to team working, presentation and report writing skills. We also run a number of company-led training workshops that develop your skills using industry software such as Petrel, Kingdom and Leapfrog.
Starting salaries as a professional geoscientist in hydrocarbons and mining industries are commonly around £30-35,000 per year.
Compulsory modules
Structural Geology Independent Project 60 credits
Applied Geophysical Methods 20 credits
Advanced Structural Modelling and Data Analytics 20 credits
Structural Geology in Resources and Geo-Energy 20 credits
Structural Models and Subsurface Interpretation 20 credits
Geomechanics 15 credits
Geodynamics and Basin Evolution 15 credits
3D Structure: Techniques and Visualisation 10 credits
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