MSc Environmental and Engineering Geology

• Year 1

• The MSc Environmental Engineering Geology programme provides an employability and practically focused curriculum in environmental and engineering geology to meet the current and future needs of the engineering geology industry through post graduate training.

  During the first two semesters of this one-year programme, you will study a range of core taught modules – from understanding the subsurface and soil / rock properties to developing a range of skills needed when undertaking site investigations and assessments. Two of these modules are designed specifically for this degree, the others draw upon our long standing expertise in environmental science. You will also undertake a placement, complemented by field based experiential learning to provide an interdisciplinary foundation to environmental and engineering geology. In the final semester you will complete an independent dissertation project.

  Throughout your studies, we will support you in gaining the research and professional skills to help you get the most from the programme – and launch a successful career.

  Core modules

  GEES515
  Professional Practice in the Environmental Sector

  This module examines the place of sustainability and environmental management in modern business practice, and prepares students for professional work experience in semester 2. It also provides students with a critical understanding of the principles, ethics and methods of environmental law and regulation, and examines the role of economics in characterising and addressing human interaction with the environment

  GEES520
  MSc Dissertation

  This is your chance to take on independent, postgraduate-level research project. You get to choose a topic that excites you, work with expert advisors, and dive deep into cutting-edge methods and analysis. You'll challenge ideas, explore new perspectives, and develop real expertise. In the end, you’ll present your findings in a dissertation and showcase your research - proving just how far you’ve come.

  GEES528
  Soil and Rock Mechanics, Characterisation and Field Skills 20 credits

  This module covers the principles of soil and rock mechanics. How soil and rock behave under loading and what are the main parameters to characterize those behaviours. Laboratory testing is used to give an insight on the basic principle of soil and rock strength and how these are determined. Ground investigation techniques used to assess soil and rock characteristics are also described and demonstrated in the field.

  50% Practicals

  50% Examinations

  GEES500
  Professional Placement Experience

  This module provides an opportunity to experience professional practice via work experience with a company / host organisation. It will allow you to apply and develop your subject skills and knowledge, learn more about professional careers within the sector aligned to your degree, develop contacts with potential employers, and refine your career aspirations.

  GEES532
  Geohazards and the Built Environment 20 credits

  This module will introduce geohazards and their impacts, exploring how to assess, monitor and mitigate them. Students undertake an assessment of a natural geohazard and produce a professional report on that assessment with a proposal for remediation. They will also learn about anthropogenic hazards and develop skills in public communication of these issues, via a practice based assessment.

  50% Coursework

  50% Practicals

  GEES533
  Site Investigation and Land Quality

  This module introduces all the phases of a site investigation, including the assessment of contamination, how it may impact upon receptors and, remediation strategies. Students undertake a desk study and write a related report of known sites where historical land use may have impacted land quality. Non-intrusive assessment techniques and the use of novel and advanced remediation technologies are covered in the module.

  GEES534
  Water Management and Sustainability in Mining

  This module considers sustainable water resource management and mitigation of environmental damage from mining. Threats to ground and surface water resources are explored at all stages of mine operation from exploration to closure and reclamation. Students develop necessary theoretical geochemical, hydrological and hydrogeological knowledge to predict and manage outcomes according to current international best practice.

MSc Environmental And Engineering Geology Programme Specification September 2024 7035