Georesources

Module Description

This module focuses on the key issues of the mineral and energy extractive industries, namely the gas and petroleum industry and the mining and quarrying industry. Gas is considered as a transitional energy source and is used to substitute for oil and coal. The learner will be introduced to the changing nature of hydrocarbon exploration and production, both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons. The key concepts of the origin and generation of hydrocarbons, migration, reservoir rocks, and subsurface reservoir structures (traps) are introduced, together with some of the key techniques used within the industry (e.g., reservoir geology, petrophysics, and formation evaluation). Practical issues such as how hydrocarbon wells are drilled and how rocks are sampled in the subsurface are also considered. 

The second aspect of the module focuses on mineral resources extracted by mining and quarrying. The learner is introduced to theory and practice as it relates to the mineral products sector and competently perform technical operations to the standards, ethical, and professional responsibilities required by the mineral products industry. Learners will gain knowledge of surface quarrying techniques and issues related to mining. Critical mineral resources will be assessed in the context of present-day demand and changing technologies.

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.