Course Information
BSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Full Time – Undergraduate Studies
CAO Code: DN200
CAO Points Range 2019: 521
Length of Course: 4 Years
Average Intake: 400
- O2/H6 in Mathematics
- O2/H6 in a laboratory science (Applied Mathematics, Computer Science or Geography may be used instead of a laboratory science subject) and
- O6/H7 in English, Irish and two other recognised subjects
- A-Level/GCSE
- Other EU Applicants
- Non-EU Applicants
- QQI FET Entry Routes
- Level 6/7 Progression Routes
Why is this course for me?
Geology is the study of the earth: the nature and origin of materials that make up our planet and the natural and energy resources it provides. It explores the processes that shape the earth (e.g. climate change, earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides). Geology addresses fundamental questions regarding the structure, age and evolution of the earth, its controlling processes and the history of life. Geology impacts profoundly on many aspects of life and society.
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities
Geology graduates work in areas essential to understanding and protecting the environment, in industries using natural resources and developing infrastructure in roles such as geological surveyors, petroleum and mineral exploration and production geologists, mine geologists, hydrogeologists, oceanographers, geochemists, environmental consultants and engineering and structural geologists.
Graduates can also pursue a range of MSc or PhD opportunities in Ireland or abroad. Graduate programmes include the UCD MSc in Petroleum Geoscience, and programmes offered by several UK universities include MSc in Hydrogeology, MSc in Engineering Geology, and MSc in Oceanography.
What Will I Study
This is a sample pathway for a degree in Geology. Topics include sedimentology, palaeobiology, geochemistry, mineralogy, petrology, geophysics, structural geology,
tectonics, earth evolution, earth resources and applied geology.
First Year
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Optional Science modules
- Elective module
Second Year
- Geology (includes a residential field course in the west of Ireland)
- + 1 Other Science Subject
- Elective modules
Third Year
- Geology (includes residential field courses in Ireland and England)
- Elective modules
Fourth Year
- Geology: the year begins with a field-mapping research project, with follow-up research and report completion during the remainder of fourth year. There is a 10-day residential field course, usually held in Spain.
All Science courses are full time, with many student timetables running from 9.00am to 5.00pm or later. Depending on the subject choices, a weekly timetable can include lectures, practicals and tutorials.
Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.
Testimonial
“In Geology, field work is an essential component which is so different to a classroom learning environment. Most recently I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Almeria in Spain to study geological evolution of mountain belts. On a field trip you’re out immersed in the Geology of the area for the full day and then return in the evening to your accommodation for a well-deserved feed and a summary of what you’ve studied that day. With a degree in Geology you learn so much about how wonderfully dynamic the planet we live on is. After I graduate I want pursue a career involving the reconstruction of ancient environments. I’m currently considering undertaking further study in the mechanisms behind past climate change and catastrophic events.”
Grace Fitzgerald Student