ESC-40085  Sustainable Extraction (15 credits)

During this module you will learn about the topical subject of ore-geology and mineral resources in terms of the geological processes that form them, and the methods used to explore and extract them. Energy resources will also be considered in terms of traditional sources, such as fossil fuels, as well as renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal and hydropower. You will develop an understanding of the environmental and societal implications of resource extraction and, in turn, the opportunities and barriers to the sustainable and responsible extraction of natural resources.

The module will be assessed by a report on the geological aspects of either ore-body formation, exploration and extraction or the formation and exploitation of energy resources as well as an individual poster presentation on sustainable and responsible resource extraction.

ESC-40091  Project Management and Business Skills (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with key skills and a broad understanding and appreciation of professional practice in the context of sustainability and technical development project planning and management. You will learn how to use data to evaluate and inform decision-making in a commercial setting which has different priorities to a research context and to navigate the stages in planning, developing, delivering and managing successful projects.

The ability to prepare and present information to enable decision making in sustainability-related projects is an important skill to equip you for a competitive job market. It is a highly transferrable skill for professional roles in R&D in commercial, public sector and academic settings.

The module will be assessed by a 4,000 word report outlining a commercial project proposal.

ESC-40087  Digital Geoscience and Spatial Analysis (30 credits)

Digital Geoscience and Spatial Analysis is designed to introduce the acquisition, visualisation, interpretation and analysis of surface and sub-surface geoscience data through field and laboratory-based topographical, geophysical and geological surveying and mapping techniques. In addition, the module includes coverage of a variety of digital methods that are used to process, interpret and visualise geoscience data, including computer programming, database design, Geographical Information Systems, computer aided design and remote sensing. Throughout the course, industry standard software and methodologies will be used in order to simulate real-world situations.

The module will be based mainly upon practical-based classes in which you will learn about various techniques and methods from demonstrations by members of staff and hands-on experience. The relevant theoretical background will be explored in lectures. This module includes a campus-based field course.

The module is assessed by a data analysis report, Python programming exercise and a group report and oral presentation on a field investigation.

ESC-40093  Research Design (15 credits)

This module provides an important foundation to support you to design and carry out independent research. It offers training that you can then tailor to individual project needs in preparation for your Dissertation project. The module will give you the tools to design and carry out high quality, ethical and robust research not only in your postgraduate degree, but also in future academic, industrial and commercial employment.

The module is assessed by a detailed research proposal that will form the basis of the MSc dissertation project.

ESC-40089  Dissertation (60 credits)

The dissertation module focuses on a student-led research project culminating in the write-up of the research project in the form of a 15,000- 20,000 word master's dissertation. The module is delivered via a combination of one-to-one meetings with the project supervisor(s), independent research and self-learning techniques.

Indicative optional taught modules

CSC-40044  System Design and Programming (15 credits)

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to system design and programming for students who did not graduate from a computer science or related programme. The module covers the principles and practice of system design in the context of an available set of requirements, introduction to programming (algorithms, data structures, data storage and manipulation, and user interfaces), introduction to object oriented programming, the development of computer programs using appropriate technology and including the accessing of data over the Internet and the use of user interfaces to manipulate and display data. Students studying this module will be able to develop programs in a major programming language using principles taught on the course.

CSC-40054  Data Analytics and Databases (15 credits)

This module aims to equip you with the knowledge of database operations and a variety of tools and statistical techniques to enable them to make sense of  the exponential growth of big data. On successful completion of the module you will understand big data issues and advanced analytics and statistical modelling techniques. 

ESC-40097  Clean and Green Technologies (30 credits)

This module aims to provide you with an overview of key concepts, debates, processes and discourses in relation to clean technologies, including renewable sources such as wind/wave/solar, and storage technologies such as hydrogen. The module will emphasise how we can use these technologies in specific scenarios, and minimise carbon footprint and assessing the contribution each might make to meeting energy needs sustainably. You will also gain an appreciation of clean technology while developing transferrable employability skills.

ESC-40101  Collaborative Project (15 credits)*

*Please note you can choose the Collaborative Project module or the Advanced Traineeship module, not both.

This module provides the opportunity to work on real-world issues as you work with staff to identify and approach appropriate collaborative partners and define appropriate projects. You will gain essential employability skills and experience as you are supported to lead collaborative discussions to co-define and co-design a project scope and to review the project's progress and outcomes. You will also develop highly desirable skills in project planning and management, communicating in a professional setting, and problem solving.

GEG-40030  Advanced Traineeships in Geography, Geoscience and Sustainability (15 credits)*

*Please note you can choose the Advanced Traineeship module or the Collaborative Project, not both.

Advanced traineeships in Human Geography and Sustainability will provide you with real world ‘hands on’ experience of working on a live research project. Through collaboration with a directive research mentor, you will generate a range of new subject-specific and generic research knowledge and skills which will enhance your understanding of contemporary societal challenges as well as future employability. Furthermore, you will generate key insights into different aspects of the research process, ranging from research design and grant preparation to the delivery of impact-related activities and work alongside a range of stakeholders during your research traineeship.

ESC-40047  Green IT (15 credits)

This module will enable you to gain an understanding of the sustainability challenges facing the IT industry and of the strategies and techniques that are available to address these challenges. You will also explore ways in which IT can enhance sustainability in other sectors (e.g. through the use of simulation and modelling software and IT tools such as video conferencing).

ESC-40060  Climate Change Science (15 credits)

You will explore factors affecting the climate and the impacts that this change is having on our planet and its inhabitants. Topics include how climate change comes about, its effects and how to prevent it, including the role of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).  You will gain skills and confidence in interpreting and communicating complex information, basic modelling and data analysis related to climate change.  

ESC-40073  Reservoir Geology and Geophysics (15 credits)

The exploration for, and exploitation of geological reservoirs is fundamental for the sustainable energy areas of geothermal, carbon dioxide sequestration and hydrogen storage, as well as for hydrocarbon energy that will still be developed for decades to come. This module will equip you with the understanding of the techniques used in reservoir evaluation and the skills to follow employment opportunities in these developing areas crucial for a sustainable future.

LAW-40043  International Environmental Law (15 credits)

This module offers a critical perspective on the development of international environmental law. It provides a grounding in the legal norms, institutions and processes of the field, and explores current environmental global issues such as biodiversity loss, trade and environment, food security and climate change through specific treaty regimes. Drawing on a range of legal, policy and other literature, the module highlights key challenges facing the regulation of the environment today.

ENL-40005 Academic English for Postgraduate Science Students (15 credits)

This module is designed to help non-native English speaking postgraduate students to develop and refine the specific writing, reading and verbal communication skills they require to succeed in their science degree studies. It aims to help students to research, extract key information, summarise from a variety of sources and engage in academic discussion. This may involve a series of workshops, lectures, assignments, online and practical tasks and projects.  

ESC-40056 Applied GIS (Masters)

This module introduces fundamental GIS concepts and capabilities and examines a variety of applications ranging from natural resources management to the disposal of toxic waste and data gathering using drones. 

CSC-40068 Advanced Programming in Python

This module uses the Python programming language as a vehicle for teaching advanced concepts but what is learned will be readily adaptable to any other general-purpose contemporary computer language.

Publishing your masters dissertation can add considerably to your achievement and can help build your reputation within your discipline, along with developing your CV skills. This is particularly relevant for those seeking to progress to a career in the private sector, academia or research. If publishing is of interest to you, please speak to a member of staff. We have had numerous successes in helping Geoscience Research students publish their work. Follow the links below to view published papers from past students.