Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Geology

Course Description

The overall Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Geology is a Level 6 qualification of 180 ECTS that develops competences that are extremely important for professionals who aspire to careers in the construction industry (rock excavation and geomaterials quality control), resource extraction (quarrying, mining and oil and gas) and the environment (geohazards and ground remediation).

In the first year, students will obtain a solid foundation in Geology, its underlying principles and scientific approach, the sedimentology of the carbonate and siliciclastic realms and the formation of natural features by geomorphological processes and tectonics. In addition, students will develop skills in geological mapping, geotechnical laboratory practice and report writing and will also cover the economic aspects of rock (Industrial Rocks and Minerals and Critical Mineral Resources) and their use in the construction industry (Geomaterials).

The second-year builds on the knowledge of the first year and delves deeper into methods of remote data acquisition (Geophysical methods and satellite/drone technology), rock materials (Clays, Igneous geology) and applications of geology (Hydrogeology, Basin Analysis).

The final year consolidates on the first two years of the programme and focuses on specialisations including Engineering Geology, that the student may want to take in the construction industry, environmental planning, or extractive industries.

This course was prepared in collaboration with the Malta Chamber of Geologists, to learn more about the Malta Chamber of Geologists, please visit their website at www.mgeol.org.

Entry Requirements

Candidates who apply for this course must possess:

•  a related qualification at MQF Level 4

and/or

• one ‘A’ Level or equivalent in a Science subject and a pass in English Language* and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent)
• In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the RPL process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning and/or professional experience are found then the applicant could still be accepted in the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA Academy, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.

*Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.

For students lacking the necessary academic qualifications, the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process may apply. If equivalent learning evidence is found, the applicant could be accepted into the course.

Target Audience

This program caters to individuals interested in enhancing their academic and professional understanding of Geology and Earth Sciences.

This program targets individuals who:

• Would like to advance their academic and professional knowledge of Geology and Earth Sciences.
• Would like to advance their academic and professional knowledge of rocks, namely, classification, testing, and use in industry.
• Work in the construction and quarrying industry.
• Are seeking to pursue a career in Geology and Earth Sciences.
• Work in geotechnical laboratories seeking to advance their knowledge and position.

Career Paths

The potential positions for which this programme aims to prepare could be and are not limited to:

• Professional Geologist
• Geological technician
• Manager of geotechnical laboratory
• Consultancy
• Court Expert
• Environmental auditor and Environmental Impact Assessment expert

Modules

You are required to complete all 15 compulsory modules (146 ECTS), and only 1 elective module (16 ECTS) out of the proposed 2, as well as the dissertation (18 ECTS) to fulfil the requirements of this bachelor’s degree.

How you’ll be assessed

The programme comprises a total of 16 modules.

The course comprises:

•  Lectures per module depending on the number of ECTS (twice a week);
• 3-hour lectures;
• 12 hours of guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos;
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

Overall assessment of this programme consists of two main components:

1. Modular Assessment carries 90% of the final grade. 2. The Dissertation carries 10% of the final grade.

Modular Assessment

The modular score achieved at the end of the study programme modules is calculated by summing up and working an average of the overall grades obtained in all of the study modules. The final grade achieved by the modular component of the programme is calculated by working out 90% of the modular score obtained for the study modules. Overall assessment weighting for each module consists of: Each module consists of two assessment tasks, each carrying a weighting as below:

a) Assessment 1 carries 20% of total module mark achieved. b) Assessment 2 carries 80% of total module mark achieved.

Dissertation Assessment

Assessment of dissertations is primarily based on:

• Depth of critical understanding of the theoretical framework;
• Application of appropriate research tools;
• Critical approach to analysis, interpretation and evaluation of research findings;
• Depth and level of argumentation build-up;
• Original contribution to the generation of new knowledge/hypothesis/models;
• Scholarly presentation meeting academic standards.