Geological Sciences MRes

Program Overview

The Master of Research (MRes) in Geological Sciences at University College Cork is a 12-month program designed for students with a research interest in the field. Students conduct a major research thesis and select taught modules to develop transferable research skills. The program prepares students for funding, PhDs, or employment in the geosciences sector. It offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with research groups within the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences iCRAG.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Research (MRes) degree in Geological Sciences is designed for highly motivated students with a research interest in Geological Sciences. This program allows students to pursue research study in an area of their choosing under the direction of internationally recognized researchers in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences at University College Cork. The program aims to provide students with a research-intensive experience at a degree level lower than a PhD.

Outline:

The MRes in Geological Sciences is a full-time course running over 12 months (24 months part-time) from the date of first registration. Applications are accepted for a start date in October or January. The program consists of:

• Major Research Thesis: Students complete a major research thesis of approximately 10,000 words.
• Taught Modules: Students must choose and pass taught modules to the value of 20 credits.

Modules (20 credits):

• GL6020 Hydrogeology, Contaminated Land and Assessment (10 credits)
• GL6021 Engineering Geology (10 credits)
• GL6022 Environmental Planning and Regulation (5 credits)
• GL6023 Offshore Environmental Geology (5 credits)
• GL6024 Applied Geophysics (5 credits)
• GL6025 Geoinformatics for Environmental Geology (5 credits)
• GL6028 Applied Hydrogeology Skills (5 credits)
• GL6029 Applied Geotechnical Skills (5 credits)
• GL4004 Advanced Igneous Processes (5 credits)
• GL4011 Economic Geology (5 credits)
• GL4024 Advanced Palaeobiology (5 credits)
• PG6001 STEPS - Scientific Training for Enhanced Postgraduate Studies (5 credits)
• PG6009 Graduate Information Literacy Skills (5 credits)
• PG6014 Scientific Outreach and Communication (5 credits)
• PG6015 An Introduction to Research Integrity, Ethics and Open Science (5 credits)
• PG6029 Skills in Public Engagement of Science (5 credits)

Careers:

The MRes in Geological Sciences is designed to give students a research-intensive experience. Taught modules are focused on generic and transferable research skills, rather than discipline-specific knowledge. Students develop skills in data analysis, interpretation, problem-solving, time- and project management, presenting and writing science, posing a research question, and developing a research proposal. Upon completion of the program, students will be competitive to secure funding, obtain a PhD position, or enter directly into employment within the geosciences sectors.

Other:

• Research in Geology at the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences is directed by Principal Investigator’s (PIs) covering the breadth of the geological sciences.
• Students have access to pre-existing data sets, samples, and field study sites.
• Data analysis can be undertaken using state-of-the-art microanalysis facilities in the Mary Ward Lab including SEM/electron microbeam, RAMAN, and FT-IR microscopy.
• Students have access to field monitoring equipment and geophysical data processing suites.
• Facilities are also available through the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences iCRAG.
• The School prides itself on its high-quality publication record, high level of innovation, and public outreach.
• The program emphasizes the connection between students, learning, research and leadership through the Connected Curriculum.
• Students have the opportunity to collaborate with selected research groups within the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences iCRAG.