Introduction
Geology and Petroleum Geology is the study of how the Earth works, and in particular, the nature and origin of the Earth’s natural resources.
Earth Sciences at the University of Aberdeen is ranked 4th in the UK for student satisfaction by the 2022 National Student Survey, with an overall satisfaction score of 91.7% (compared to a national average score of 83.1%).
The Science Teaching Hub provides students with the most modern microscopy laboratories in the UK. Our advanced microscopes and cameras allow you to study rocks and capture and share images like never before.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- BSc
- Duration
- 48 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time
- Start Month
- September
- UCAS Code
- F602
- Pathway Programme Available
- Undergraduate Foundation Programme
Petroleum geologists use their deep understanding of the Earth’s geological structures to help find and extract hydrocarbons cleanly and efficiently.
This programme is accredited by the Geological Society for London and begins with a thorough examination of main geological principles and disciplines that underpin our understanding of the structure and evolution of the Earth, and how this knowledge can be used to discover and extract natural resources.
In particular, this programme examines the main geological principles that underpin our understanding of the structure and evolution of the Earth. You will learn about the origin, structure and composition of the major rock groups and learn how we date geological events and how we gather and interpret data in the field.
In the final two years (Honours) you will specialise further in the geology related to the petroleum industry, including field and mapping techniques, structural geology & tectonics, petrology and sedimentology.
Geology at Aberdeen extends beyond the Earth to other planets. Using a combination of the vast online resources provided by NASA, and the UK Virtual Microscope’s Apollo collection, students make their own investigations of aspects of the geology of the Moon and Mars and compare results with the geological evolution of Earth.
One of the main components of the final year is the 5-week independent field project, when students undertake an independent research over the summer between years 3 and 4, and much of the autumn term is focused on working up the report.
Geology graduates enter a wide variety of professions, including oil and gas exploration and production, environmental geology, pollution control, geological surveying, volcanology, seismology and environmental consultancy.
The Science Teaching Hub provides students with the most modern microscopy laboratories in the UK. Our advanced microscopes and cameras allow you to study rocks and capture and share images like never before.
What You'll Study
The courses of study are made up of a range of core courses and choices. In years 1-4, the core courses you study are the same regardless of whether you are aiming for the BSc or the MGeol.
- Year 1
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Two core courses: Earth Through Geological Time, which looks at the evolution of the Earth over the past 4,500 million years, and Earth's Materials, looks at the origin, physical and characteristics of the rocks and minerals that make up the Earth.
Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002)
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This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students (and articulating students who are in their first year at the University), is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.
Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- The Nature of The Environment Through Geological Time (GL1005)
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15 Credit Points
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.
- Earth's Materials (GL1505)
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15 Credit Points
Following on from GL1005 this course is an introduction to the petrogenesis of three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Practical classes will centre around the use of polarizing microscope in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals. The relationship between plate tectonics and the petrogenesis of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, including types and styles of volcanic eruptions will be addressed.
Optional Courses
Select a further 90 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 2
-
Four courses all of which are taken for Single and Joint Honours programmes. These include Stratigraphical Principles, Petrology & Mineralogy, Geophysics and Introduction to Field Geology, which is a six-day residential course on the Isle of Arran.
Compulsory Courses
NOTE: Candidates seeking entry to the Junior Honours programme must have accumulated, by award or recognition, or been exempted from, at least 240 credit points at levels 1 and 2, including those compulsory courses required to enter programme year 3.
- Stratigraphical Principles (GL2014)
- Earth’s Life, Environments and Climate Through Time (GL2017)
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15 Credit Points
This course explores how Earth’s life, environments and climate have changed through the history of the planet, from its origins until the Recent past. This exciting story, including for example Earth-covering “snowball” glaciations, mass extinctions, and the origins of life on land, is unravelled by looking at fossils, sedimentary rocks and their chemical signals, learning and applying the fundamental methods and principles required to determine sequences of events in Earth's history (stratigraphy).
- An Introduction to Field Geology (GL2510)
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15 Credit Points
Field-based observation is an essential skill for understanding the origin of rocks, and is a vital reality-check for understanding how Geological Science is practised and developed. This course gives students experience with techniques for investigating rocks in their natural habitat, studying the crucial relationships between different units, and developing good habits for observing and recording data in the field. Students learn how to perceive geology in 3D, and to develop working hypotheses from incomplete evidence. This is achieved through a five-day residential field trip (takes place in the Easter break) which is preceded by wide-ranging practical classes and explanatory lectures.
- Geophysics (GL2511)
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15 Credit Points
This course introduces you to some of the physics that underlies Earth’s processes, and shows you how geophysical methods can be used to uncover Earth’s structure and processes. From how the Earth moves around the solar system, to how rocks bend and break, from earthquake hazards to uncovering mineral resources, this course will allow you to gain skills and knowledge that will be important for the rest of your degree and future careers.
Optional Courses
Select a further 60 credit points from courses of choice.
- Year 3
-
Year 3 is the start of the Honours degree and all but one course option in each semester is geology focused. At year 3 there are two main residential field courses as well as day field trips.
Compulsory Courses
- Principles of Petroleum Geology (GL3018)
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15 Credit Points
This course introduces students to the key issues surrounding being a geologist in the petroleum industry. With the changing nature of hydrocarbon exploration and production, both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons are considered. The key concepts of the origin and generation of hydrocarbons, reservoir rocks and subsurface reservoir structures (traps) are introduced, together with some of the key techniques used within the industry (e.g. reservoir geology, petrophysics and formation evaluation). Practical issues such as how hydrocarbon wells are drilled and how rocks are sampled in the subsurface are also considered.
- Field and Mapping Techniques 1 (GL3026)
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15 Credit Points
This course is based on a residential field programme that enables students to directly study geological phenomena and relationships in the field. it provides hands-on experience and develops 3-D approaches to thinking and problem solving. The learning environment is remote from the university, and encourages students to learn individually and in small group settings. The course covers a range of techniques typically, geological field mapping, sedimentary logging, and examination of detailed field relationships to enable broader scale conclusions to be drawn. Assessments are undertaken during the actual field course. The field course is paid for directly by participants.
- Structural Geology & Tectonics (GL3027)
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15 Credit Points
This course covers all main aspects of structural geology and tectonics and entails 1 hour lectures and 3 hour practicals each week, together with a field excursion to relatively local geology. The significant practical component allows 'hands on' learning with worked examples being provided by staff. The field excursion allows students to directly apply skills and techniques that have been covered in preceding lectures and practicals. with worked examples then provided in follow-up sessions. The course covers a spectrum of brittle and ductile structures that are developed across a range of scales from microscopic to mountain belt.
- Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology (GL3520)
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15 Credit Points
This course is in 2 parts. In part 1, the students explore the links between tectonic setting and magma genesis, with particular reference to geochemical signatures recorded in the rocks. In part 2, students look at how different bulk protolith compositions control the metamorphic mineral paragenesis, with an emphasis on observing and recording evidence from textures in thin sections. In a world of post-peak oil, exploration for new reserves is now moving to igneous and metamorphic rocks, and a thorough understanding of these rocks is essential for the practising geologist.
- Sedimentology (GL3521)
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15 Credit Points
Sedimentology is fundamental to interpreting past climate and geography from the evidence in the rock record of the environment in which sediment was deposited. This course develops the skills needed to make such interpretations by cultivating proficiency at description and process-based interpretation of sedimentary successions, and showing how study of modern environments is used to decipher sedimentary processes. We review the controls on the preservation of sediments to make the rock record, including an introduction to the concepts of genetic (sequence) stratigraphy, and see how this can improve discovery and recovery of water and hydrocarbon resources in the subsurface.
Optional Courses
Juniour Hours are required to take:
- Field and Mapping Techniques 2 (GL3525), plus 15 credit points from courses of choice.
Designated degree students may choose one of the following:
- Project/Dissertation (for Designated Degrees only) (GL3508), plus 30 credit points from courses of choice.
- Field and Mapping Techniques 2 (GL3525), plus 15 credit points from courses of choice.
NOTE:
GL3525 is not normally available to students on the Designated Geology-Petroleum Geology programme. All students intending to graduate with Honours must complete GL3525.
GL3508 is only normally available to student on the Designated Geology-Petroleum Geology programme.
- Field & Mapping Techniques 2 (GL3525)
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30 Credit Points
This course teaches the advanced field skills necessary for all practising geologists, and serves as preparation for the summer mapping project (GL4023). The material builds on that covered in GL3026 (Field & Mapping Techniques 1). Preliminary laboratory classes in Semester 2 are used to prepare students for the field exercises on the 10-day field trip. The students will learn how to systematically collect, analyse and present their own field data as part of wider scientific studies.
- Project / Dissertation (GL3508)
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15 Credit Points
A dissertation not exceeding 5,000 words based upon an original geological investigation or a literature review.\_x000D_ \_x000D_ Or, where appropriate, the submission of a piece of independently executed fieldwork, in the form of a map and brief accompanying memoir, may be permitted at the discretion of the Course Coordinator.
- Year 4
-
One of the main components of the BSc final year is the 5 week independent field project. You undertake your independent research over the summer between years 3 and 4, and much of the autumn term is focused on working up the report.
Compulsory Courses
NOTE: GL4023 requires 35 days of field work during the summer vacation preceding Level 4.
- Geological Mapping Project (GL4023)
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45 Credit Points
35 days of individual geological field mapping. During the exercise the student will devise and carry out a research project based on an aspect of the area mapped and submit a final map and report.
- Geochemistry and Geofluids (GL4031)
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15 Credit Points
This course trains students in advanced basin analysis and geofluid and geochemistry techniques, that can be used to model and understand the subsurface over deep geological time. Techniques focus on the manipulation and interpretation of geochemical data. Field excursions, including a residential trip, are central to the course as are projects involving group work and individual study. The course includes advanced academic topics at the frontiers of current research, but is also excellent preparation for working in the petroleum and subsurface sectors.
- Integrative Geology Through Fieldwork (GL4532)
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15 Credit Points
Field observations and their interpretations together with other datasets and imagery, allied to focussed laboratory work on geological materials, may be integrated to inform understanding of geological processes that play within and upon the earth’s crust. The course will enhance essential geo- and reasoning skills through integrated field, laboratory and desk-top investigations showing how geological processes interact in time and place – a culmination of the BSc Geology programme.
Optional Courses
Select one of the following:
- Planetary Geology (GL4033)
- Applied Geological Synthesis (GL4034)
Plus select a further 15 credit points from courses of choice.
A graduating curriculum for the Honours programme must include 90 credit points from Level 4 courses.
- Planetary Geology (GL4033)
-
15 Credit Points
On this course you will become an interplanetary explorer, learning how to conduct real scientific research and synthesise data, guided by experts. You will apply your skills to learn and discover new things about aspects of lunar and planetary geology that interest you.
- Applied Geological Synthesis (GL4034)
-
15 Credit Points
On this course you will learn how to conduct real scientific research and synthesise data relevant to applied geological challenges, guided by experts. You will apply your skills to learn and discover new things about aspects of applied geology that interest you.
We will endeavour to make all course options available; however, these may be subject to timetabling and other constraints. Please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
How You'll Study
Learning Methods
- Field Trips
- Field Work
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lab Work
- Lectures
- Research
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
- practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
- written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Geology and Petroleum Geology?
-
The Science Teaching Hub provides students with the most modern microscopy laboratories in the UK. Our advanced microscopes and cameras allow you to study rocks and capture and share images like never before.
- The BSc Geology and Petroleum Geology is accredited by the Geological Society of London.
- Field study forms a major part of our teaching, and our location in Aberdeen means our students benefit from easy access to numerous wonderful field locations throughout Scotland such as Arran, Skye, and the Scottish Highlands, including many sites in the Geological Society of London’s 100 Great Geosites
- A part of their Honours Curriculum geology Level 4 students have extended their geological reach to Earth’s Satellites and other planets. Profs Javier Martin-Torres and Maria-Paz Zorzano of the Department of Planetary Sciences have joined forces with Drs Alex Brasier and Malcolm Hole of the Department of Geology & Geophysics to deliver a 15 credits module on Planetary Sciences.
- Being based at the heart of Europe’s energy industry also means that our programmes benefit from direct industry involvement, including industry advisory panels, guest lectures, site visits, industry-supported projects, and numerous career networking events.
- You will have the opportunity to join Aberdeen University Geology Society the Student Chapter of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists to expand your knowledge, skills and professional networks beyond the classroom.
- One of the main components of the final year is the 5-week independent field project, when students undertake independent research over the summer between years 3 and 4, and much of the autumn term is focused on working on the report.
- Geology and Petroleum Geology graduates enter a variety of professions, particularly in exploration and production in the oil and gas industry, but also in other sectors including the groundwater industry, environmental consultancy and geological surveying.
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
General Entry Requirements
- 2023 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: AABB*
Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.
Adjusted: BB*
Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB*
Minimum: BBC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, with two Mathematics/ Science subjects at HL.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 including a minimum of H3 from two Science or Mathematics subjects.
Entry from College
Advanced entry to this degree may be possible from some HNC/HND qualifications, please see www.abdn.ac.uk/study/articulation for more details.
- 2024 Entry
-
SQA Highers
Standard: AABB*
Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.
Adjusted: BB*
Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening access criteria are are guaranteed a conditional offer. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB*
Minimum: BBC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
More information on our definition of Standard, Minimum and Adjusted entry qualifications.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, with two Mathematics/ Science subjects at HL.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 including a minimum of H3 from two Science or Mathematics subjects.
Entry from College
Advanced entry to this degree may be possible from some HNC/HND qualifications, please see www.abdn.ac.uk/study/articulation for more details.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Sciences degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
English Language Requirements
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 78 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 59 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
International Applicants
International Applicants who do not meet the Entry Requirements
The University of Aberdeen International Study Centre offers preparation programmes for international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for undergraduate study. Discover your foundation pathway here.
Fees and Funding
You will be classified as one of the fee categories below.
| Fee category | Cost |
|---|---|
| RUK | £9,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2023/24 Academic Year | |
| EU / International students | £24,800 |
| Tuition Fees for 2023/24 Academic Year | |
| Home Students | £1,820 |
| Tuition Fees for 2023/24 Academic Year |
Scholarships and Funding
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
International Applicants
Further Information about tuition fees and the cost of living in Aberdeen
Additional Fees
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our InfoHub Tuition Fees page.
Our Funding Database
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Careers
Each year, over 91% of our Geology graduates are in employment or further study 6 months after graduating.
Our degree(s) in Geology open up career opportunities with the global oil and gas industry, as well as other key sectors. Our degrees are highly respected by the oil and gas industry and our graduates are in high demand.
Geology is also a subject that opens up tremendous opportunities for further study, either at an MSc level or PhD.
The vast majority of Aberdeen Geology & Petroleum Geology graduates find employment within the hydrocarbon or mineral exploration and exploitation sectors. Additionally, postgraduate specialised study is a popular pathway toward careers in the oil industry.
Career Opportunities
- Associate Technical Professional
- Borehole Geologist
- Data Manager
- Field Engineer
- Logging Geologist
- Mudlogger
- Site Engineering Geologist
- Well Planning Engineer
Accreditation
This degree holds accreditation from
What our Alumni Say
Tom Theurer
Becky Wain
Don Duncan
Roneta Holland
Joselia Ferreira
Our Experts
You will be taught by research active academic staff, each with vast knowledge and experience of working in and/or with industry. Some of our staff are truly leading and renowned Geology academics. Each one is passionate about the subject and fully supportive.
- Other Expert
- Dr Malcolm Hole
- Programme Coordinator
- Dr David Muirhead
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time; please see our InfoHub pages for further information.
Features
SPE Student Chapter
Society of Petroleum Engineers, Student Chapter is one of the 230 student chapters around the world. Currently, our chapter is managed by 6 elected committee members and is advised by Dr. Akisanya. We have more than 150 members.
Find out more
Aberdeen University Geological Society
Student-led social and professional events and networking.
Find out more
Geology Field Trips
Scotland can claim to be the birthplace of geology and many fundamental ideas and concepts have been inspired by its wonderful field locations. We make full use of this natural resource, running our field training in world-famous locations.
Find out moreDiscover Uni
Discover Uni draws together comparable information in areas students have identified as important in making decisions about what and where to study. You can compare these and other data for different degree programmes in which you are interested.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX