Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Geology

Course Description

Our Undergraduate Higher Diploma in Geology provides an in-depth exploration of Earth’s materials, structures, and dynamic processes.

This advanced program covers key areas such as mineralogy, sedimentology, structural geology, and geophysics. Students will engage in rigorous coursework complemented by extensive laboratory and fieldwork, developing practical skills in geological mapping, sample analysis, and data interpretation.

This diploma prepares graduates for advanced roles in environmental consulting, resource management, and research, or for further academic pursuits in geology and related disciplines.

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 11 compulsory modules (120 ECTS)

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:

• Modular Assessment
• Project 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.

Assessment of Project 

• 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.