Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Geology

Course Description

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Geology, imparts vital competencies for careers in the construction industry (rock excavation, geomaterials, quality control), resource extraction (quarrying, mining, oil and gas), and the environment (geohazards, ground remediation). Year one establishes a robust geology foundation, sedimentology, geomorphology, tectonics, and geotechnical skills. It also covers economic aspects and industrial use of rocks. Year two advances the students’ knowledge on remote data acquisition methods, rock materials, and applications of geology. Such as hydrogeology and basin analysis. The final year offers specialisation options, including engineering geology, catering to construction, environmental planning, or extractive industries. This programme equips students with academic rigour and practical skills for success in diverse geology-related professions. 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

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, fieldwork, laboratory work, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.