Master of Science in Geology

The global and sustainable management of water and soil, of natural resources and energy sources is high on the international agenda. Managing these resources wisely requires a fundamental knowledge of Earth’s geo-features. Although the concept of Global Change is nothing new to a geologist, it does cover many different aspects. Earth is an incredibly dynamic system. Unravelling this is one of the biggest challenges of our century.
Ghent University offers a Master’s programme in Geology with two main specialisations, each of them covering a key discipline of ‘System Earth’. These specialisations are Basins and Orogens, and Groundwater and Mineral Resources. The Basins and Orogens major covers the emergence and evolution of large oceanic and continental sediment basins, and how this was influenced by the structure and composition of the lithosphere, by fluids, by climate and by the biosphere. The Groundwater and Mineral Resources major focuses on the characterisation and preservation of two of Earth’s most vital compartments (groundwater and mineral resources) - humankind’s main priority. It goes without saying that development co-operation is an important element in our programme.

Each specialisation is supported by a 60 ECTS credits-worth of major-specific course units staggered across two years, as well as an accompanying Master’s dissertation of 30 ECTS credits. The research project that eventually results in a Master's dissertation can be initiated already in the first year. The major-specific course units are programmed in the first term. The Basins and Orogens major contains course units with a focus on sedimentary processes, ocean and climate dynamics, and the evolution of the biosphere. Micropaleontology is a key aspect in all of this. On the other hand, the curriculum also focuses on petrological and geophysical aspects. Both disciplines contain field work. The Groundwater and Mineral Resources major covers the fundamental and applied study of natural resources and groundwater. Its aim is for a sustainable management and protection of these vital resources. A 30 ECTS credits-worth minor allows for professional preparation by means of electives. You can opt for a work placement or course units with an obvious link to sustainability, entrepreneurial action and transversal skills.
Immersion into a professional or other scientific-academic environment will broaden your horizons and will confront you with the needs of the professional world or with new scientific perspectives.

Our programme’s strong multidisciplinary character opens career perspectives in innovative research, in dynamic industrial sectors, e.g. the environmental sector, drinking water companies, the government, NGOs and authorities responsible for developmental co-operation, exploration of hydrocarbons and geothermic energy, the geotechnical sector, the construction sector and large dredging companies, underground storage of greenhouse gases, etc.
In addition, students of the Geology programme gradually acquire the huge advantage of becoming proficient in English on a professional level. The world will be your oyster!