Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology
Dr Ayanda Shabalala
The purpose of the Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology is to provide advanced academic and research training in various tailored subdisciplines in geology with the aim of equipping students with the required skills for a future in industry or Master of science degree and further. The academic structure is designed to enhance students’ knowledge of fundamental aspects of geology, including but not limited to igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary processes, hydrothermal ore forming processes, and industry related aspects of geology such as mineral exploration techniques and mining practices. The Mpumalanga province and South Africa as a whole are a geological marvel which provides a natural laboratory for the integral field school aspect of the programme.
Description of the Programme
The core modules of Research Methodology (15 credits), and the independent (year-long) Research Project (30 credits) are common to all Honours programmes offered by the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, with a geology specific Field school (15 credits) module that is essential to the purpose of the programme. Students will then select four specialist theory modules to bring their total credit count to 120 (see Table 1). The theory modules will allow students to develop in depth and current knowledge and skills in important areas of Geology including Economic geology, Igneous petrology and geochemistry, Metamorphic petrology and geochemistry, Mineral exploration techniques, sedimentary geology and mining and mineral processing. The module on research methodology is essential in the supporting of students learn how to conduct research which will aid in the successful completion of their research projects, whilst the field school module will introduce the students to industry practices and aid in basic geology skills development.
| Module |
Year |
Credits |
Level |
Core/Elective |
| Core modules |
|
|
|
|
| Research Methodology |
1 |
15 |
8 |
C |
| Field School (geological mapping) |
1 |
15 |
8 |
C |
| Research Project |
1 |
30 |
8 |
C |
| Electives |
| Economic Geology |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Igneous petrology & geochemistry |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Metamorphic petrology and geochemistry |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Sedimentary Geology |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Mineral exploration techniques |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Mining and mineral processing |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
Teaching and learning will be through lectures, seminars, field school, and independent studying. A year-long research project worth 30 credits will allow students to conduct independent research.
Admission Requirements
The minimum requirements for admission are:
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification at NQF level 7) with a minimum average mark of 60% in final year Geology modules.
Students who meet or exceed the minimum entrance requirements will be offered places.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT)
The University accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value, and the University accepts the challenge to assess prior learning that is aligned to programmes and award credit (through CAT) to promote lifelong learning. The purpose of the University of Mpumalanga’s RPL and CAT policy, is to recognize prior learning in order to provide for admission to programmes, grant advanced placement in programmes and grant credits for modules using the principles and processes that serve as basis for RPL practices.
Duration
The Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology is at exit level 8 on the HEQSF, with a requirement of 120 credits as a minimum. The Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology is offered over 1-year, full time, and 2 years part time.
Articulation
Graduates from the Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology degree can continue into a Master of Science programme in geology.
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