Earth Georesources

Module Description

This module covers three aspects:  

• The classification of industrial rocks and minerals. 
• Genesis and exploitation of major ore deposits. 
• Assessment and production of Geomaterials used in the construction industry. 

The module details the classification, genesis, and exploitation of major ore deposits. The processes through which ore deposits are formed and modified will be discussed, highlighting the relevance of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous processes in the genesis of world-class ore bodies.  

Geomaterials used in construction are discussed in detail in this module. The focus is on aggregate and dimension stone. Aggregate sources, production, and classification is discussed with applications to unbound and bound aggregate (for concrete and asphalt). The assessment of geomaterials quality using seven index properties of rock, density, water absorption, strength, elastic modulus, Poisson ratio, thermal expansion, and durability will also be discussed in this module. 

Target Audience

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

Persons seeking to or working in:

• advance their academic and professional knowledge of Geology and Earth Sciences;
• advance their academic and professional knowledge of rocks, namely, classification, testing, and use in industry;
• the construction and quarrying industry;
• pursue a career in Geology and Earth Sciences;
• 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

How you’ll be assessed

The programme comprises a total of 8 modules. The method of assessment is assignment-based.

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;
• Assessment may consist of field work carried out in specific location/s in the Maltese Island;
• 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, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.