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M-SC in Applied Geology at Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur
Howrah, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Applied Geology at Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur Howrah?
This Applied Geology program at IIEST Shibpur focuses on integrating fundamental geological principles with practical applications crucial for India''''s growing resource and infrastructure sectors. It covers mineral exploration, hydrogeology, engineering geology, and advanced geoinformatics, providing a robust scientific foundation. The program emphasizes problem-solving in areas vital for sustainable development and resource management within the Indian subcontinent, preparing students for impactful careers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for geology graduates seeking a specialized master''''s degree to enter or advance in the mineral, oil and gas, groundwater, or environmental consulting industries. It targets individuals passionate about Earth sciences, eager to apply their knowledge to practical challenges, and aspiring to contribute to national resource management and infrastructure projects, particularly those with a B.Sc. in Geology or Applied Geology.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in organizations like the Geological Survey of India (GSI), ONGC, Coal India, various state water boards, and private mining or infrastructure firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong foundation also aligns with requirements for competitive exams and further research in earth sciences, contributing to India''''s scientific talent.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Geological Concepts- (undefined)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding fundamental theories in petrology, structural geology, and geochemistry during the initial semesters. Utilize textbooks, reference materials, and collaborate with peers for clarity. Strong conceptual understanding forms the bedrock for advanced applications.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, academic journals, departmental library, peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is essential for passing entrance exams for PSUs like GSI and ONGC, and for analytical roles in any geological domain.
Develop Practical & Observational Skills- (undefined)
Actively participate in all laboratory sessions for mineral and rock identification, petrographic microscope studies, and early field visits. Practice detailed observation and accurate recording of geological features. These hands-on skills are critical for applied geology professions.
Tools & Resources
Petrographic microscopes, hand lenses, geological hammers, field notebooks, departmental labs
Career Connection
Proficiency in practical lab and field work directly translates to effectiveness in exploration, mapping, and site investigation roles in industry.
Build a Strong Quantitative Base- (undefined)
Focus on understanding and applying principles of remote sensing, GIS, and basic statistical analysis for geological data. Leverage software tools introduced in courses to gain practical experience in spatial data handling and interpretation, enhancing analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
ArcGIS, QGIS, ERDAS Imagine, statistical software packages, online GIS tutorials
Career Connection
Quantitative skills are highly valued in modern geological practices, enabling careers in geoinformatics, resource modeling, and environmental assessment.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Specialization & Project-Based Learning- (undefined)
Carefully select electives that align with your career aspirations in semesters 3 and 4. Dedicate considerable effort to the Dissertation/Project Work, treating it as an opportunity for in-depth research and practical application of learned concepts to a real-world geological problem. Seek faculty mentorship.
Tools & Resources
Research papers, specialized software (e.g., Modflow for hydrogeology), IIEST research labs, faculty advisors
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation or project often forms the basis for demonstrating expertise, which is crucial for higher studies, R&D roles, and specialized industry positions.
Enhance Field & Industry Readiness- (undefined)
Actively engage in the mandatory Field Geology program in Semester 3 to gain extensive hands-on experience in geological mapping, data collection, and interpretation. Seek internships with GSI, ONGC, or other relevant organizations to bridge academic knowledge with industry practices and gain exposure to professional environments.
Tools & Resources
Field equipment, geological maps, internship portals, industry contacts
Career Connection
Direct field experience and industry internships are paramount for securing placements in exploration, mining, civil engineering, and environmental sectors in India.
Network & Career Planning- (undefined)
Attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or industry bodies to interact with professionals and faculty. Actively participate in campus placement drives, refining resume writing, interview techniques, and group discussion skills. Understand industry demands and prepare accordingly for geological roles.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, departmental alumni network, career counseling services, mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Effective networking and placement preparation significantly increase chances of securing desirable positions in India''''s competitive job market, including PSUs and private firms.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. (Hons) in Geology/Applied Geology from a recognized University/Institute with minimum 60% marks in aggregate or 6.5 CGPA in 10 point scale (6.0 CGPA for SC/ST/PwD candidates). (Based on 2023-24 M.Sc Admissions Brochure)
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 62 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Course-specific (e.g., Mid-semester exams, continuous assessment for practicals), External: Course-specific (e.g., End-semester exams)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 2101 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 3 | Phase Rule in petrology, Igneous rock classification and petrogenesis, Metamorphic textures and structures, Isograds and metamorphic facies, Plate tectonics and magma generation |
| AG 2102 | Sedimentary Petrology & Basin Analysis | Core | 3 | Sediment transport and depositional processes, Sedimentary structures and textures, Diagenesis of sediments, Sedimentary facies analysis, Basin classification and evolution |
| AG 2103 | Structural Geology & Tectonics | Core | 3 | Stress, strain, and rock deformation, Folds, faults, and joints, Shear zones and strain analysis, Plate tectonics and structural settings, Structural analysis techniques |
| AG 2104 | Crystallography & Mineral Optics | Core | 3 | Crystal systems and forms, Stereographic projection and point groups, Optical properties of minerals, Petrographic microscope and accessories, Birefringence and interference colors |
| AG 2105 | Petrology & Mineral Optics Practical | Lab | 3 | Hand specimen identification of rocks, Thin section study of igneous rocks, Thin section study of metamorphic rocks, Optical properties determination, Microscopic identification of minerals |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 2201 | Geochemistry | Core | 3 | Composition of Earth''''s crust and mantle, Trace element geochemistry, Stable and radiogenic isotope geochemistry, Geochemical exploration methods, Environmental geochemistry principles |
| AG 2202 | Micropaleontology & Palynology | Core | 3 | Introduction to microfossils, Foraminifera and Ostracodes, Calcareous nannofossils, Palynological sample preparation, Application in biostratigraphy and paleoecology |
| AG 2203 | Engineering Geology | Core | 3 | Geological investigations for engineering projects, Rock and soil mechanics properties, Slope stability analysis, Geology of dams, tunnels, and bridges, Geological hazards and mitigation |
| AG 2204 | Remote Sensing & GIS in Geology | Core | 3 | Electromagnetic spectrum and remote sensing principles, Satellite remote sensing platforms and sensors, Image interpretation and processing, GIS data models and spatial analysis, Applications in geological mapping and resource exploration |
| AG 2205 | Geochemistry, Micropaleontology & Remote Sensing Practical | Lab | 3 | Chemical analysis of geological samples, Microfossil identification and preparation, Palynological slide examination, Satellite image processing techniques, GIS mapping and data integration |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 2301 | Mineral Exploration | Core | 3 | Ore genesis and classification, Prospecting methods and sampling techniques, Geochemical exploration principles, Geophysical exploration methods, Mineral reserve estimation and evaluation |
| AG 2302 | Hydrogeology | Core | 3 | Hydrological cycle and groundwater occurrence, Aquifer properties and classification, Groundwater flow and Darcy''''s law, Water quality and contamination, Groundwater exploration and management |
| AG 2303 | Coal & Petroleum Geology | Core | 3 | Origin and formation of coal, Coal characteristics and resources in India, Petroleum generation and migration, Source rocks, reservoir rocks, and traps, Exploration and production of hydrocarbons |
| AG 2304 | Field Geology | Field Work | 4 | Geological mapping techniques, Structural measurements and interpretation, Sample collection and analysis, Stratigraphic logging and correlation, Field report writing and presentation |
| AG 23XX | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from options:, AG 2305A: Advanced Engineering Geology, AG 2305B: Environmental Geology, AG 2305C: Computer Applications in Geology, AG 2305D: Marine Geology, AG 2305E: Geochronology & Isotope Geology, AG 2305F: Geophysics for Geologists |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 2499 | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 10 | Research problem identification, Literature review and methodology design, Data collection and analysis, Geological interpretation and modeling, Thesis writing and oral presentation |
| AG 24XX | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from options:, AG 2405A: Resource Geomatics, AG 2405B: Advanced Hydrogeology, AG 2405C: Applied Stratigraphy, AG 2405D: Advanced Mineral Exploration, AG 2405E: Petroleum Reservoir Geology, AG 2405F: Natural Hazard Management |
| AG 24XX | Elective III | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from options:, AG 2405A: Resource Geomatics, AG 2405B: Advanced Hydrogeology, AG 2405C: Applied Stratigraphy, AG 2405D: Advanced Mineral Exploration, AG 2405E: Petroleum Reservoir Geology, AG 2405F: Natural Hazard Management |
