GEOLOGY AND PETROLEUM GEOLOGY

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Practical sessions will be available each week; individual students attend once a fortnight.

Overview

For 4,500 million years the Earth has been, and still is, a continually evolving Dynamic Planet. The record is held in the rocks and fossils of the present continental landmasses and ocean basins. To deduce the history of the planet geologists must apply a large range of scientific principles and disciplines. These disciplines encompass the biological,chemical and physical sciences. The course provides a basic understanding of how the structure and evolution of the planet are deduced and how this information can be used to discover and extract natural resources such as fossil fuels and ores.

Structure

20 one-hour lectures 5 three- hour practical sessions.

It is intended to include a half-day field course, depending on prevailing weather conditions. Other classes will be reduced pro-rata if fieldwork is possible.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (50%); 90 minute examination (50%). In-course assessment will include class tests in mapping and palaeontology.

Resit: 1 two-hour examination including map and palaeontology practical questions (100%).

Formative Assessment

Three WebCT-delivered multiple choice question (MCQ) tests with on-line feedback at various times during term.

Feedback

MCQ's have already been piloted and used for GL 1004 in session 2009/10. SCEFS and other comments suggest students find these extremely valuable, and it is intended to use these for the new course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 1005

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Students with 'A' level or equivalent in geology may be exempt from this pre-requisite at the discretion of course-coordinator/Head of School.

Overview

An introduction to the petrogenesis of three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. The application of the polarizing microscope in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals. The relationship between plate tectonics and the petrogenesis of igneous amd metamorphic rocks, including types and styles of volcanic eruptions and hazards. The formation and fill of sedimentary basins and their importance in the accumulation of hydrocarbons.

Structure

10 one-hour lectures; 10 two-hour practical classes.

1 half-day fieldwork after the Easter break.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 90 minute examination (50%); in-course assessment (50%). In-course assessment will include class tests in optical microscopy and mineral identification.

Resit: Examination (2 hours) including practical section (100%).

Formative Assessment

WebCT-based multiple choice (MCQ) tests with on-line feedback at various time during term. Exercises with solutions during practical classes.

Feedback

MCQ's have already been piloted for GL 1004 during 2009-2010. SCEFS and other comments suggest that students find these extremely valuable, and it is intended to use MCQ tests in this course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor G M Walkden

Pre-requisites

None

Notes

Available only to students in programme year 2 or above.

Overview

This introductory course covers the recognition and interpretation of invertebrate fossils and fossil assemblages. It is suitable for all intending physical and biological scientists and provides a broad overview of palaeontology that would also interest non-scientists.

1. Principles: Preservation and taphonomy; recognising species; systematics
   and evolution; recording and handling data.


2. Systematic palaeontology: morphology, evolution and palaeoecology of brachiopods,
   bivalves, cephalopods, trilobites, graptolites, corals, echinoderms and minor
   groups.


3. Interpreting fossil assemblages.

Structure

2 lab/lecture sessions per week.

Assessment

Assessment: Assessment by practical course work (40%); 1 two-hour examinatio paper (50%) and oral presentation (10%). Students must pass both components.

Resit: Examination (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S Bowden

Pre-requisites

GL 1503

Notes

GL 1004 recommended.

Overview

Chemical composition of earth as a planetary body; introduction to geochronology; introduction to phase equilibria; melting processes and magma production; crystallization and consolidation of magma; solid-state reactions in rock materials; metamorphic reactions; diagenesis; composition of minerals and mineral structure; processes and environments of chemical/biological sediment formation.

Structure

2 x one-hour lectures per week, 8 x three-hour practical classes/workshops during half session.

Assessment

1st attempt: examination (60%), in-course assessment (40%).

Resit: examination (60%) plus original in-course assessment (40%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 1005, GL 1505

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Students with 'A' level Geology or equivalent may be exempt from the GL 1005 prerequisite.
Students who have taken and passed KL 107X or KL 157X or equivalent make take this course subject to prior permission of the course coordinator.

Overview

1. absolute dating - Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Pb, K-Ar & Ar-Ar systematics and the treatment of raw data (mineral and whole-rock)


2. relative timing of geological events from geological maps


3. basic principles of facies analysis


4. case studies of integrated used of time, sequencing and interpretative stratigraphical tools based on published geological maps.

Structure

2 two-hour sessions per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (60%) - lab work (geochronology calculations and report; map interpretation)
(40%) examination - 1½ hours.

Resit: Original in-course assessment (60%).
Examination (40%) - 1½ hours.

Formative Assessment

Informal progress reports on lab work - interim marking of lab-based exercises.
WebCT MCQ tests three times a term.

Feedback

Formative: Verbal report, WebCT
Summative: written feedback normally within 2 weeks of original sumbmission.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S A Bowden

Pre-requisites

GL 1005; GL 1505

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Students with 'A' level Geology or equivalent may be exempt from the GL 1005 prerequisite.
Students who have taken and passed KL 107X or KL 157X or equivalent may take this course subject to prior permission of the course coordinator.

Overview

Chemical Composition of Earth as a planetary body.
Composition and structure of the common rock-forming minerals.
Introduction to phase equilibria; melting processes and magma production; crystallization and consolidation of magma. Solid-state reactions in rock materials; metamorphic reactions.
Diagenesis & weathering.
Processes and environments of chemical/biological sediment formation.

Structure

2 one-hour lectures per week. 8 three-hour practical classes during ½ session.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%);
in-course assessment (40%). In course assessment will be based on laboratory exercises.

Resit: Examination (60%) plus original in-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Interim marking of laboratory-based exercises throughout term, with feedback every two weeks.

Feedback

Written summative feedback will be provided on laboratory exercises prior to the written examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D I M Macdonald

Pre-requisites

GL 1503; GL 2013

Co-requisites

GL 2511

Notes

Required for students taking 45 or more credit points in Geology at Level 2. Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, inlcuding steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

Six days of fieldwork (planned for NE Spain in session 2009-2010) in an area with a significant diversity of geological features; construction of a geological map; collecting accurate and precise structural data; logging of a sedimentary sequence and analysis of the palaeoenvironment. Instructed practical classes prior to the field course will include the background to sedimentology and the construction of sedimentary logs.

Structure

Residential field course of six days' duration. Introductory instructed practical classes approximately 4 x 3 hours each.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Resit: Apply to course co-ordinator.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr R Stephenson

Pre-requisites

GL 1503; GL 2013

Notes

GL 1004 recommended

Overview

Gravity and isostasy, satellites and geodesy, geomagnetism and palaeomagnetism, geoelectrics, heat flow; techniques of seismology, origin and form of waves, locating earthquakes and deducing their focal mechanisms; using active and passive seismic methods to deduce earth structure, principles for interpreting seismic reflection data; introduction to earth forces, stress and deformation of the solid earth; fluid dynamics, fluid flow, physical sedimentary and volcanic processes. Origin of sedimentary structures.

Structure

3 x 1 hour lecture each week, laboratory visits (on campus) surgery classes.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (20%); examination - 2 hours (80%).

Resit: 2-hour examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor A J Hartley

Pre-requisites

GL 2013, GL 2510, GL 2511

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

This field course is based in Helmsdale during September/October. The course provides training in field techniques, data recording and interpretation. Experience is gained in mapping and logging sedimentary sequences. Field recording and interpretation includes structural data, current directions, construction of cross sections, reconstruction of palaeoenvironments, and field palaeontology.

NB: This course is mandatory for joint honours students with Geography and Physics.

Structure

9 day field course.

Assessment

Assessment: Coursework: Field assignments and data manipulation (100%).

Resit: Whole course

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J E Neilson

Pre-requisites

GL 2013, GL 2510, GL 2511

Overview

This course introduces students to the geological processes which result in the accumulation of oil and natural gas in rock reservoirs. Ideas about the origin of petroleum are discussed as are the fundamental processes of organic deposition, thermal maturation, migration of fluids and the formation of traps for reservoired petroleum. Exploration strategies and the role of the geologist are discussed. Comprehensive practical introductions are given to techniques for remotely determining rock properties including wireline logging and geophysical (seismic, gravity and aeromagnetic) surveys. Most topics form the background for 4th year advanced courses.

Structure

10 three-hour sessions of lectures, practicals and tutorials.

Assessment

Assessment: 1 ninety minute written examination paper (75%); in-course assessment (25%). Students must pass both components.

Resit: Failed elements by examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor A J Hartley

Pre-requisites

Admission to the Honours Programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology.

Notes

Cannot be taken with GL 3018.

Overview

Dissertation not exceeding 5000 words based upon an original investigation into petroleum producing basin.

Structure

5 one-hour tutorials.

Assessment

Assessment: Dissertation (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I G Alsop

Pre-requisites

GL 2013, GL 2510 GL 2511

Overview

Interpretation of the surface geology of regions using geological maps and landforms using satellite and other remote sensing data. Cross-section construction. Introduction to the structural interpretation of seismic data. The main styles of deformation structures, faults, folds and distributed distortional strain and their analysis. 3D structural analysis using stereographic projections. Simple kinematic approaches, relationships and deformation structures to tectonics and their importance for the structure of the crust and its sedimentary basins.

Structure

20 x 3-hour lecture/practical sessions.

Assessment

1st Attempt: in course assessment (30%); 2-hour examination (70%).

Resit: 2-hour examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 2013; GL 2509; GL 2510

Co-requisites

GL 3017

Notes

Only available to students in level 3 of a Geoscience, Geology-Petroleum Geology or Geoscience-Geography Programme

Overview

The course would be based on lectures and associated practical material. Case studies would be drawn mainly from the North Sea and North Atlantic, using the same material where possible to illustrate different aspects of stratigraphic analysis. Case studies from other parts of the world would be used where appropriate (eg Tethyan carbonates to illustrate certain aspects of sequence stratigraphy). Detailed content as follows:

Structure

2 hours lectures and 2 hour practical per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (75%) and continuous assessment (25%). Must achieve at least CAS 9 for all in-course assessments.

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (100%).

Formative Assessment

Feedback

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor A J Hartley

Pre-requisites

Level 2 Geophysics; Petrology & Mineralogy; Stratigrpahical Principles; Introduction to field Geology.

Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

One week field excursion: The excursion concentrates on field techniques and data recording and interpretation. Experience will be gained in mapping and logging sedimentary sequences. Field recording and interpretation includes structural data, current directions, construction of cross-sections, reconstruction of palaeoenvironments and field palaeontology.

Mapping classes: A series of follow-up pratical classes on the interpretation of geological maps.

Structure

One week residential field course at the beginnning of first half-session level 3.

5 three-hour mapping workshops.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

This will include assessments carried-out whilst on fieldwork and in practical classes.

Resit: Repeat course.

Formative Assessment

The majority of teaching is a small groups at outcrop. Feedback is therefore continuous and on-going throughout the course. Field-based exercises are submitted after the days fieldwork, and marked and returned whilst the residential part of the course is still running.

Feedback

Field-based assessments are marked and returned during the field course, giving feedback on one exercise before completion of the next. Class-based exercises will be fed-back after each exercise.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor R Butler

Pre-requisites

Level 2 Geophysics; Petrology & Mineralogy; Stratigrpahical Principles; Introduction to field Geology.

Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

Interpretation of the surface geology of regions using geological maps and landforms using satellite and other remote sensing data. Cross-section construction. Introduction to the structural interpretation of seismic data. The main styles of deformation structures, faults, folds and distributed distortional strain and their analysis. 3D Structural analysis using stereographic projections. Simple kinematic approaches, relationship of deformation structures to tectonics and their importance for the structure of the crust and its sedimentary basins.

Structure

20 three-hour lecture/practical sessions.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In course assessment (30%); examination (2 hours) (70%).

Resit: 2 hour examination (100%).

Formative Assessment

Multiple choice questions will be set at intervals during the course to provide both summative and formative feedback.

Feedback

Laboratory-based exercises will be set and marked and retuurned to students withn two weeks of submission.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 3023 or GL 3024 and GL 3018 or GL 3514

Notes

The course is intended to develop compilation and investigative skills for Designated degree students in their final year. It is normally only available to students registered for a Designated Degree in Geoscience, Geology-Petroleum Geology or Joint Geography-Geoscience.

Overview

Assessment: A dissertation not exceeding 5,000 words based upon an original geological investigation or a literature review.

Assessment

Resit: Resubmit dissertation

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Prof R Butler

Pre-requisites

GL 3017, GL 3023, GL 3024

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

The course comprises 10 days of field work undertaken during second half-session. It consists of 6 days of advanced field observation, mapping, data recording and analysis and 4 days analysis of the structural and petrological characteristics of Caledonian granitoids and their country rock hosts. Maps, records of field observations, field syntheses and interpretations are produced and developed during the course.

Assessment

Assessment: Coursework (80%) and one 2000 word pre-field course essay assignment (20%). Students must pass both components.

Resit: Whole course

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D I M Macdonald

Pre-requisites

GL 2501

Notes

Only available to students in Programme Year 3 or above of a Geoscience School Programme.

Overview

The course reviews both bulk resources and groundwater as essential requirements of an industrialised society and examines the problems of locating, evaluating, exploiting, conserving and environmentally managing these resources.

Groundwater in the hydrological cycle; definition of aquifer systems; principles of groundwater flow; exploration and development; chemistry and contaminant transport; drilling; monitoring and sampling; vulnerability and protection; artificial influences on groundwater, groundwater resources and hydro-stratigraphy.

Structure

1 four-hour teaching period comprising a mixture of lectures, practical and self-directed learning per week. Additional tutorials as required.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Resit: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor P D Clift

Pre-requisites

GL 3017, GL 3023

Notes

Only available to students in Programme Year 3 or above of Geoscience School Programme.

Overview

Attendance at departmental research seminars and workshops. Additional course-specific lecture/workshops developing ideas and concepts from seminar series. Final assessment will require the submission of a public friendly scientific narrative on an approved topic, and presentation to peer-group on that topic.

Structure

8 one-hour departmental research seminars. 5 two-hour lectures/workshops on key topical issues in geoscience from departmental and outside speakers.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Resit: Resubmission of report.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr D Healy

Pre-requisites

GL 2013; GL 2509; GL 2510; GL 3024; GL 3025

Notes

Only available to students in level 3 of a Geoscience, Geology-Petroleum Geology or Geoscience-Geography Programme

Overview

1. Petrogenesis of igneous rocks of island arcs and Cordillera


2. Petrogenesis of oceanic within plate magmas


3. Petrogenesis of continental flood basalts and relationship to continental break-up


4. Blueschists and eclogites (high pressure-low temperature) metamorphism associated with subduction


5. Granulites and granites (high temperature-low pressure) metamorphism associated with crustal thickening

Structure

2 one-hour lectures; 1 two-hour practical/tutorial/surgery; Additional computing tutorials as required (max 3 hours).

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (50%); examination (50%).

Resit: Original in-course assessment (50%); examination (50%).

Formative Assessment

Feedback

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C P North

Pre-requisites

GL 2013; GL 2509; GL 2510; GL 3017; GL 3024; GL 3018; GL 3025

Notes

Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Programme

Overview

The course will take a problem-led approach emphasising concepts and techniques in preference to exhaustive knowledge. Overview and synthesis of sedimentology material covered in previous courses; objectives, methods and procedures for sedimentary rock description and recording; review of the general characteristics and processes of modern-day sedimentary environments; introduction to trace fossil analysis and how ichnology aids environmental interpretation; autogenic and allogenic controls on sediment preservation and accumulation, with an introduction to sequence stratigraphy; practice at interpreting sedimentary logs, describing a core, using petrography to aid environmental analysis.

Structure

2 one-hour lectures per week
1 three-hour practical or guided self-directed learning session per week
Additional tutorials as required

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60%) plus in-course assessment (40%) based on practical exercises (must achieve at least CAS 9 for all in-course assessments to pass the module overall).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (60%) plus in-course assessment carried forward from first attempt (40%).

Formative Assessment

Feedback

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr Malcolm Hole/Susan E Heard

Pre-requisites

This course is available only to students in programme year 3 who have passed GG 2003 and/or GG2504 and GL 1503. Course may not be taken as part of a graduating curriculum with GG 4526 in Geography.

Notes

Cannot be taken with GL 459V.

Overview

Knowledge of the physical behaviour of, and interactions between, magmas in the uppermost crust, hydrosphere and atmosphere. Roles of vulcanology in human society, culture and economics: research and data collection; analysis and evaluation of data, report writing. Management of volcanic hazards.

Structure

10 2-hour lectures (one 2 hour session per week for the first 10 weeks of the course) plus a field day.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination(67%), plus in-course assessment (33%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (67%), plus in-course assessment mark carried forward from 1st attempt (33%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D Macdonald

Pre-requisites

GL 2013, GL 2510, GL 2511

Overview

This course introduces students to the geological processes which result in the accumulation of oil and natural gas in rock reservoirs. Ideas about the origin of petroleum are discussed as are the fundamental processes of organic deposition, thermal maturation, migration of fluids and the formation of traps for reservoired petroleum. Exploration strategies and the role of the geologist are discussed. Comprehensive practical introductions are given to techniques for remotely determining rock properties including wireline logging and geophysical (seismic, gravity and aeromagnetic) surveys. Most topics form the background for 4th year advanced courses.

Structure

10 three-hour sessions of lectures, practicals and tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 ninety minute written examination paper (75%); in-course assessment (25%). Students must pass both components.

Resit: Failed elements by examination.

Formative Assessment

Feedback

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor J Parnell

Pre-requisites

GL 3018

Notes

Only available to Honours Geology Petroluem Geology, Geoscience, Geology-Physics & Geography-Geoscience with satisfactory prerequisites.

Overview

Techniques particularly used for understanding thermal and fluid histories in sedimentary basins. Applications of mineralogy and heavy mineral geochemistry in the correlation of clastic strata.

Structure

2 three-hour sessions per week. Mixture of lectures, practical work and problem solving.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Resit: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor David Macdonald

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences and Geography-Geosciences students.

Notes

Only available for level 4 Honours Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geoscience and Geography-Geosciences students.

Overview

One-day field trips in the Aberdeen area. These include;

1. Aeolian depositional systems, Ythan Estuary


2. Sediment-volcanic interactions, St Cyrus


3. Ore deposits at Souter Head


4. Structural geology of the Braemar area.

One general examination paper in two parts will cover aspects of geological mapping problems and specimen identification in an integrative way.

Structure

4 one-day trips.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (two general papers) (40%) and in-course assessment (60%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 2013, GL 3514

Notes

Only available to students in Programme Year 3 or above of a Geoscience School Programmes.

Overview

Physical properties of ore minerals. Optical properties of ore minerals including reflectance, colour, hardness, and observations under crossed polars. Ore textures. Use of electron microbeam analysis (scanning electron microscope and Edax, electron microprobe), cathodoluminescence and x-ray diffraction to identify minerals.

Reviews of the sedimentary, hydrothermal and magmatic ores of gold, silver, platinum, copper, molybdenum, tin, lead, zinc, nickel, chromium and uranium. For each ore type the sources of the ore fluid and metals and transport and deposition mechanisms are explored using isotopic, fluid inclusion and other relevant data. Key factors leading to ore grade and tonnages are highlighted. In addition the global dimension is addressed through considerations of metallogenic epochs and provinces and regional tectonic setting.

Structure

50 hours of mixed lectures, practical classes and 1 field visit (one day).

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (written and practical) (80%); in-course assessment (20%).

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Prof R Butler

Pre-requisites

Only available to level 4 Honours Geology-Petroleum Geology and Geoscience students.

Overview

This is an independent project and has no specific lecture or practical syllabus. The course aims to make students integrate all their geological knowledge and skills gained on previous courses and challenges them to be more aware of their own academic and self management skills. The course is designed to encourage students to plan and execute a small research project and, whilst the initial choice of project is subject to staff scrutiny (for reasons of safety and geological suitability), the subsequent input and guidance from staff advisers is controlled by student request.

Structure

3 one-day field courses in the Aberdeen area after the May examination diet. 28 days of individual fieldwork in an area approved by supervisor.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor John Parnell

Pre-requisites

Only available to level 4 Honours Geology-Petroleum Geology and Geoscience students.

Overview

There is a choice between courses in the N.W. Highlands and in N.E. England. The former studies regional crustal evolution from the Archaean to the Phanerozoic whereas the latter focuses on Mesozoic rock with emphasis on Petroleum Geology. Both of these adopt a holistic approach and encourage the synthesis of a range of different types of information and data. Resource geology is a component of both courses.

Structure

8 day field course in N.W. Scotland or N.E. England.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor J Parnell

Pre-requisites

Only for Hon students in Geology & Petroleum Geology

Overview

1. Reading and critiquing Thomas Gold's 2001 book "The Deep Hot Biosphere: The Myth of Fossil Fuels".


2. Investigation of one aspect that student believes Gold has misunderstood OR that oil/gas industry has overlooked.


3. Supported by seminar-format explanation of some of the issues involved, particularly those pertinent to hydrocarbon formation/distribution (including deep permeability, biomarkers, role of microbes).


4. Practical study of non-conventional occurrences of hydrocarbons.


5. Survey of class beliefs before/after reading the book.

Structure

6 one-hour tutorials (to be arranged)
2 three-hour practicals

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continous assessment (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor J Parnell

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

1. Thermal history techniques, including fission track analysis, fluid inclusion analysis, biomarker analysis, techniques in old basins.


2. Diagenesis in sedimentary basins, and consequences for exploration.


3. Indicators of palaeogeography, palaeoenvironments, provenance, and the use of space-time diagrams.


4. Application of biostratigraphic techniques in basin exploration.


5. Application of petroleum geochemistry in basin exploration.

Structure

15 three-hour lecture-seminar-practical packages, plus self-directed learning and private study.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); In-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Practical and seminar parts of course package will allow for oral formative feedback.

Feedback

Summative assessment will be provided on in-course assessment using pro-forma.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I Alsop

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

1. A series of four one-day field exercises based around the Aberdeen area


2. a one week residential field course during the Easter vacation. Student will have a choice of field courses, their choice being informed by their interests and balance of their curriculum.

Structure

All field-based.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In course assessment (70%); examination (30%).

One-day courses will each have a report associated with them.

For residential fieldcourses, assessments will vary depending on the nature & purpose of the particular course.

The 30% by examination is a General Paper in the May Examination diet.

Formative Assessment

Field-based teaching is largely problem-based, and much of the formative assessment is done in the field.

Each of the one-day field courses will have an exercise associated with it.

Feedback

For the one-day field courses, each report will be marked and returned to the students prior to the next field day.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor J Parnell

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

1. Gas hydrates (clathrates): global distribution of clathrates; controls on clathrate stability; application of clathrate stability software; clathrates in geological history.


2. Natural gas: origins, analysis of gases to determine origin; hydrogen springs.


3. Shale gas/coal bed methane: Potential distribution of shale gas; prediction and detection of shale gas; coal bed methane.


4. Hydrocarbons in basement rocks: Reasons why hydrocarbons enter basement rocks; commercial prospects; possibility of abiogenic hydrocarbons.


5. Tar sands, oil shale and massive bitumen: Global distribution of tar sands; mechanisms for tar sand formation; prospects for tar sand exploitation; massive bitumen deposits; oil shales.

Structure

6 one-hour introductory lectures and/or tutorials (to be arranged); 2 three-hour practicals. Directed reading and project work.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Project (50%); Resource prediction Report (25%); Data interpretation report (25%).

Formative Assessment

Tutorials have been introduced to the course with the express purpose of providing formative feedback.

Feedback

Resource prediction Report and Data interpretation report will be returned with summative comments before the end of the course.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Professor R Butler

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

GL 4521 Geological Research Project.

Notes

Cannot be taken as part of a graduating curriculum with GL 4020 Geological Mapping Project.

Overview

This is an independent project and has no specific lecture or practical syllabus. The course aims to make students integrate all their geological knowledge and skills gained on previous courses and challenges them to be more aware of their own academic and self management skills.

The course is designed to encourage students to plan and execute a small research project and, whilst the initial choice of project is subject to staff scrutiny (for reasons of safety and geological suitability), the subsequent input and guidance from staff advisers is controlled by student request.

Structure

Each student will have at least 1 day of field supervision from a member of staff at a mutually agreed time, but approximately half-way through their field days.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Assessment of field note books, field maps, logs etc.; assessment of map "clean copy" (60%); Poster & oral presentation (40%).

Formative Assessment

Guidance will be given in the field and at tutorials by mutual agreement between staff and students.

Feedback

Tutorials and field days will allow formative feedback.

Credit Points

12.5

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 3017 Field Techniques 1.

Notes

This course is only for students taking a joint degree.
Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

This field based course covers synthesis and geological modelling and comprises (1) an 8 day field course in North West Scotland or Northern England and (2) a short report and oral presentation on an assigned regional study.

Structure

Field courses.

Assessment

Assessment: Based on field work reports (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D I M Macdonald

Pre-requisites

GL 2501

Notes

Only available to students in Programme Year 3 or above of a Geoscience School Programme.

Overview

The course reviews both bulk resources and groundwater as essential requirements of an industrialised society and examines the problems of locating, evaluating, exploiting, conserving and environmentally managing these resources.

Groundwater in the hydrological cycle; definition of aquifer systems; principles of groundwater flow; exploration and development; chemistry and contaminant transport; drilling; monitoring and sampling; vulnerability and protection; artificial influences on groundwater, groundwater resources and hydro-stratigraphy.

Structure

1 four-hour teaching period comprising a mixture of lectures, practical and self-directed learning per week. Additional tutorials as required.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Resit: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor G M Walkden

Pre-requisites

GL 2010

Notes

Only available to level 4 Honours Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geoscience, Geology-Physics & Geography-Geoscience students, or other BSc students within the Geoscience School with satisfactory prerequisites.

Overview

This course is divided into two parts: one based upon independent reading and essays; one based upon seminars and discussions. There is no formal lecture content.

• Part one covers the origin of life and extinction with emphasis on geological evidence and the interplay between organisms and the planetary environment, comprising crust, hydrosphere and atmosphere.


• Part two covers milestones and invertebrate and vertebrate evolution including the causes of macro-evolutionary and micro-evolutionary change, the origin of vertebrates, the transition to land, functional morphology in vertebrate evolution and the evolution of psychozoa.

Structure

1 two-hour lecture/tutorial session per week or by arrangement.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%).

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr S A Bowden

Pre-requisites

Only available to level 4 Honours Geology-Petroleum Geology and Geoscience students.

Overview

This course is an independent laboratory based investigation with no specific syllabus of lecture or practical classes. The course requires students to integrate previous knowledge and skills gained during geological course-work in to a coherent self-learning package chosen to satisfy the interests of individual students. In essence, it is the culmination of the degree course allowing the student to carry out self-directed research.

Structure

Attendance at laboratory session as required by supervisor.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Preliminary Report (30%) and Laboratory Project Report (70%). Students must also submit research proposals and laboratory books. These are not formally graded but non-submission could result in a penalty.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Prof P Clift

Pre-requisites

GL 3023, GL 3024

Notes

Only available to level 4 Honours Geology Petroleum Geology, Geoscience, Geology-Physics & Geography-Geoscience with satisfactory prerequisites.

Overview

Basins in their plate-tectonic setting. Lithosphere behaviour and the mechanisms basin formation. Key features of extensional, compressional and strike-slip basins. Testing tectonic models by stratigraphic analysis. Facies architecture of basins including: (i) tectonics and sedimentation (ii) sequence stratigraphy. The interaction between sea-level change, tectonics, climate and sediment supply in the final development of a basin-fill Basin analysis: (i) thermal history, fluid generation and migration (ii) compaction history (iii) backstripping and forward and inverse modelling. Case studies are used throughout.

Basics of reflection seismology. Signal theory and propagation of waves. Reflection seismic acquisition. Seismic processing funamentals and digital filtering. Seismic interpretation for structures. Reservoir aspects of seismic interpretation. Seismic stratigraphy. Fundamentals of gravity and magnetic surveys.

Structure

1 two-hour and 1 three-hour sessions per week. Mixed lectures, practical work, computer modelling and problem solving.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%) and in-course assessment (40%).

Resit: Examination (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 3023, GL 3024

Notes

Only available to students at Levels 3 or 4 of a Geoscience School Programme.

Overview

1) geophysical methodology applied to continental reconstructions
2) the birth of continents
3) intra-continental evolution
4) basins and basin formation
5) continental margin evolution
6) magmatism and the causes continental break-up
7) ore belts of supercontinents

Structure

2 one-hour lectures per week. Practical-tutorial groups: 1 three-hour practical/self-directed learning session per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (50%); examination (50%).

Resit: Examination (100%). Exemptions from part of the examination can be awarded with the discretion of the Course Co-ordinator/Course team.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C E Bond

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

Working with digital geological data.
Loading GIS datasets.
Collecting digital geological data.
Analysis of uncertainties in data collection and interpretation.
3D datasets, using visualisation to understand 3D geometries, and
using software tools to assess the validity of models.

Structure

6 one-hour lectures and 12 three-hour practicals; with associated directed learning.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Mid session group practical exercise and poster creation (30%); Individual work project (70%).

Formative Assessment

Feedback will be given after the mid-session group work.

Feedback

The students will mark each others poster- based on a pro-forma, providing the students with peer-review of their own work.

The teaching staff will complete the same forms and provide further feedback verbally to the groups.

During the individual project work there will be drop-in sessions for students to get feedback on their work.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D I M Macdonald

Pre-requisites

Petroleum Geology - techniques in basin analysis.

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Only available for to students with an offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Overview

A series of case-studies of producing hydrocarbon basins will form the core teaching for this course.

Structure

12 three-hour lecture-seminar-practical packages.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); In-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Practical and seminar parts of course package will allow for oral formative feedback.

Feedback

Summative assessment will be provided on in-course assessment using pro-forma. This will be handed back to the students by the end of the ninth week of teacinng to allow for pre-examination feedback.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I Alsop

Pre-requisites

Petroleum Geology - techniques in basin analysis.

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Overview

Basics of reflection seismology.
Signal theory and propagation of waves.
eflection seismic acquisition.
Seismic processing funamentals and digital filtering.
Seismic interpretation for structures.
Reservoir aspects of seismic interpretation.
Seismic stratigraphy.
Fundamentals of gravity and magnetic surveys.

Structure

15 three-hour lecture-seminar-practical packages, plus self-directed learning and private study.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); In-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Practical and seminar parts of course package will allow for oral formative feedback.

Feedback

Summative assessment will be provided on in-course assessment using pro-forma.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor P D Clift

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

1. Mechanical properties of the continental and oceanic lithosphere


2. Sedimentary basins in extensional rift settings; flexural basins - forelands.


3. Controls on the erosion of the continental crust


4. Climate-tectonic interactions in collisional orogens ? Himalaya, Taiwan, Alaska, Andes


5. Orogenic plateaus Tibet and the Asian monsoon


6. River systems as agents of crustal recycling. Controls on their large scale evolution.


7. Oceanic gateways in Earth history ?Indonesia, Panama, Drake Passage, N.
   Atlantic deep water


8. Sediment and crustal recycling at subduction zones.


9. Superplumes, mass extinction events and oceanic anoxic events
   


10. Controls on global sealevel and its influence on stratigraphy, erosion and crustal recycling

Structure

12 two-hour workshops/lectures.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 5 minute presentation of ideas from a paper chosen from a set provided to the class together with discussion of issues involved - 20% of total marks.

A1 sized poster and 5 minute oral presentation concerning a climate-tectonic linkage to be chosen from a short list provided and based on examples discussed in the classes. - 35% of the total marks -

Final Exam - 45% of the total marks - Set questions based on class work and practicals. Short, often numerical based answers.

Formative Assessment

Oral & poster presentations will take the form of a conference - peer feedback and staff feedback and discussion.

Feedback

Marks and comments will be returned to students on a pro forma.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr R Stephenson

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

A Quantitative modelling in Geology

1. background concepts and physical principles underlying quantitative modelling techniques as used in geological applications


2. non-specialist overview of the mathematical expression of these physical principles


3. examination of the applications of quantitative modelling techniques, their strengths and weaknesses, to fluid flow, structural geology, geodynamics problems

1. principles of X-ray analysis (XRD, XRF, electron microprobe)


2. principles of ICP and ICP-MS


3. principles of GC and GC-MS


4. principles of the Scanning electron microscope


5. relative costs of techniques.

Structure

2 one-hour lecture/tutorial per week; 1 two-hour practical per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%). This will include mathematical problems for the quantiative modelling content and practical analytical problems for the Laboratory techniques content.

Formative Assessment

Most of the mathematical problems will be in class and solutions will be summarized at the end of that class.

Feedback

Feedback on the analytical content of the course will be by formal marking of assignments with feedback sheets.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

Construction of scientific argument, identifying and formulating hypotheses. the nature and uncertainties in data and interpretation.
Design of workflows.
Critical interrogation of published material.
Synthesis of previous research
Presentation of science to peer-groups through writing, poster, oral and web-based media.
Presentation of science to non-technical audiences through various media.

Structure

11 three-hour contact sessions
Directed project-work, preparing materials.

This will include seminars, written material, poster presentations and the production of web-based materials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Through submission of a portfolio of practical work (scientific writing, poster, powerpoint/oral and digital materials at the end of the course.

Resit: Resubmission of portfolio.

Formative Assessment

A combination of group-based peer-review sessions moderated by the course team, with feedback given after each major task.

Feedback

A combination of group-based peer-review sessions moderated by the course team, with feedback given after each major task.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor R W H Butler

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

A residential field class of up to 10 days tied to the interpretation of supporting geophysical and remote-sensing data and previously published work, followed by presentations through combinations of oral, poster and written report.

Structure

Residential course.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Presentations; Individual (60%); Group (40%).

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment will be on-going in the field.

Feedback

Oral feedback, both from peers and lecturers will be an integral part of the presentations.

Credit Points

60

Course Coordinator

Professor R W H Butler

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

The project content will be decided in collaboration with a named supervisor within the Department of Geology & Petroleum Geology. The topic chosen will be consistent with the options taken at level 4.

Structure

Supervisory meetings, at least once a week during the project period.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Submission of 5,000 word technical report (70%). Oral Presentation (10%). Submission of a 'popular' science article (20%).

Formative Assessment

Supervisory meetings will take place weekly during the period of the project.
Approximately half-way through the project, an interim report showing progress to date will be submitted.

Feedback

Via supervisory meetings. At least one supervisory meeting per week will take place at which the student will be expected to attend.