Exploration Geology (BSc)

Program Overview

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Cardiff University's Exploration Geology program equips students with the skills and knowledge to locate and assess natural resources responsibly. Through a combination of theoretical and practical training, students gain expertise in mapping, sampling, data analysis, and exploration software. The program offers flexibility in module selection and a dissertation project, preparing graduates for a range of careers in the exploration industry and beyond.

Program Outline

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Exploration Geology (BSc) - Cardiff University

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Degree Overview:

This three-year full-time program focuses on providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge required for a successful career in exploration geology. It emphasizes practical application and equips students with the ability to locate and assess natural resources responsibly.

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Outline:

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Year One:

• Strong foundation in the science of geology, covering Earth's structure, minerals, and lifeforms.
• Essential skills like mapping, surveying, GIS, and microscopy.
• Local field trips and a week-long residential field trip to Pembrokeshire.
• Opportunity to switch to other degrees in the same school after the first semester.

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Year Two:

• Advanced concepts like sedimentary processes, igneous and metamorphic rocks, and mineral deposit formation.
• Training in surface and underground mapping, sampling, data collection, and analysis.
• Residential field trips to Pembrokeshire and North Wales.
• Opportunity to participate in the Exploration Alumni mentoring scheme.
• Five-week independent project preparing for the dissertation in the third year.
• Option for a summer placement with industry exploration companies.

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Year Three:

• Flexibility to choose modules that align with career ambitions.
• Dissertation research project.
• Core modules: Mineral Deposit Exploration and Evaluation, Petroleum Geology, Geoenergy and Basin Analysis.
• Individual and team projects using industry standard exploration software for regional exploration.

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Assessment:

• Combination of assignments, presentations, fieldwork, examinations, and a dissertation.
• Written and oral feedback on coursework.
• Informal feedback throughout the course.
• Alternative assessment methods available for students with disabilities.

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Teaching:

• Friendly and informal school environment.
• World-leading experts involved in cutting-edge international research.
• Teaching approach combines theory and practical experience: lectures, laboratory work, fieldwork, tutorials, workshops, seminars, and independent learning.
• Dedicated personal tutor for regular tutorials and academic/personal guidance.
• Learning Central website with videos, presentations, lecture handouts, exercises, and discussion circles.
• Range of career options: exploration geologist, hydrogeologist, mineralogist, environmental consultant.
• Practical and business-focused aspects of the degree provide employable skills relevant to various sectors (e.g., insurance, finance, education).
• Alumni work experience examples: Anglo American Plc, North American Nickel, Mineco, Karelian Gold Ltd, Bibby Hydromap, Golder Associates, Royal HaskoningDHV.
• Many students secure jobs with companies they worked for during the dissertation project.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

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Fees for home status

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase.

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Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

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Additional costs

The fieldwork costs for your core modules are included but you will need to contribute towards food if it is provided during the trip.

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Course specific equipment

You will need suitable clothing including warm weather, wind and storm-proof jackets and walking boots. The school will provide all health and safety equipment as well as specialised field equipment.

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Accommodation

We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget.

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Living costs

We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.