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M-SC-TECH in Applied Geology at Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad
Dhanbad, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Applied Geology at Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad Dhanbad?
This M.Sc. Tech Applied Geology program at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad focuses on providing comprehensive knowledge in various facets of Earth sciences, crucial for the exploration and sustainable utilization of geological resources. Given India''''s extensive geological diversity and growing energy demands, skilled geologists are vital for mineral, oil, and water exploration, making this program highly relevant for national development.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Science graduates with a background in Geology who seek to specialize in applied aspects of Earth sciences. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for careers in mineral exploration, petroleum, groundwater, and environmental geology sectors. Working professionals in related fields looking to enhance their technical expertise and career prospects in India''''s resource industries will also find it beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in government organizations like GSI, ONGC, CIL, and private mining, oil, and groundwater consulting firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program equips students for roles in exploration, resource management, geological surveys, and environmental impact assessments, contributing directly to India''''s economic growth.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Foundational Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on understanding core geological principles like crystallography, mineralogy, structural geology, and stratigraphy. Regularly review lecture notes, work through textbook problems, and attend all practical sessions to solidify theoretical knowledge and observational skills.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Earth Sciences, Standard textbooks by Press, Tarbuck, Marshak, Online geological dictionaries, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for advanced studies and practical applications in all geological fields, forming the bedrock for effective problem-solving in exploration and resource management.
Cultivate Field Observation Skills- (Semester 2 (Specifically with Geological Field Training))
Actively participate in all geological field training excursions, meticulously documenting observations, sketching geological features, and collecting samples. Practice interpreting geological maps and orienting oneself in the field. This hands-on experience is paramount for an applied geologist.
Tools & Resources
Field notebooks, Geological compass-clinometer, GPS devices, GSI publications on Indian geology, Departmental field guides
Career Connection
Direct field experience is highly valued by employers in mineral exploration, hydrogeology, and engineering geology, enhancing practical readiness for entry-level field geologist roles.
Build Interdisciplinary Analytical Aptitude- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with the compulsory Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry courses, understanding their direct relevance to geological problems. Apply quantitative methods to solve geological challenges, fostering an analytical mindset crucial for advanced studies in geophysics and geochemistry.
Tools & Resources
Academic support centers, Online problem-solving platforms like Khan Academy for foundational sciences, Geology-focused numerical examples
Career Connection
This interdisciplinary strength is essential for roles requiring data analysis, modeling, and scientific interpretation in diverse sectors, including oil and gas, and environmental consulting.
Intermediate Stage
Master Geospatial Technologies- (Semester 3-4)
Gain proficiency in Remote Sensing and GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS, ERDAS Imagine). Work on mini-projects involving geological mapping, resource identification, and environmental monitoring using satellite imagery and spatial data.
Tools & Resources
ArcGIS/QGIS software, Open-source geospatial data portals (Bhuvan, USGS Earth Explorer), Online tutorials, Departmental GIS labs
Career Connection
Expertise in RS & GIS is a core requirement for modern geologists, opening doors to careers in exploration, environmental management, urban planning, and infrastructure development.
Seek Industrial Exposure & Networking- (Semester 4 (Specifically Industrial Training))
Actively pursue industrial training opportunities during breaks, particularly those offered by PSUs like ONGC, GSI, or CIL, or private exploration companies. Engage with industry professionals, understand real-world challenges, and build professional connections.
Tools & Resources
IIT (ISM) Dhanbad''''s career development cell, LinkedIn for professional networking, Industry seminars and workshops
Career Connection
Industrial training is often a direct pathway to placements, providing invaluable practical experience and showcasing commitment to the industry, significantly boosting employability.
Specialize in Key Applied Areas- (Semester 3-4)
Pay close attention to courses in Economic Geology, Hydrogeology, and Exploration Geophysics. Consider additional certifications or online courses in areas of strong interest to develop a specialized profile, aligning with India''''s specific resource needs.
Tools & Resources
Online courses from Coursera/edX in specialized geology topics, Industry-specific workshops, Dedicated study of specialized journals
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more valuable asset in specific sectors (e.g., petroleum exploration, groundwater management), leading to focused career opportunities and higher demand.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Project and Research Work- (Semester 6 (Major Project))
Choose a challenging research project (Project AG 52402) aligned with your career aspirations. Work closely with your supervisor, conduct thorough literature reviews, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present findings clearly. Aim for potential publication or conference presentations.
Tools & Resources
Advanced geological software, Academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Scientific writing guides, Departmental research facilities
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates research capability, problem-solving skills, and deep subject knowledge, highly valued by employers and for pursuing higher studies/research roles.
Refine Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 5 (Seminar))
Take the Seminar course (AG 51401) seriously, practicing effective scientific communication. Prepare engaging presentations, articulate complex geological concepts clearly, and participate actively in discussions. This is vital for professional advancement.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International, Public speaking workshops, Practice sessions with peers, Feedback from faculty
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are crucial for conveying findings, collaborating in teams, and client interactions in any geological role, enhancing leadership potential.
Strategic Career Planning and Placement Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
Begin early placement preparation, focusing on technical interviews, aptitude tests, and soft skills. Research target companies, tailor your resume, and leverage the institutional placement cell. Explore diverse career options, including entrepreneurship in geological consulting.
Tools & Resources
IIT (ISM) Dhanbad placement cell resources, Mock interview platforms, Industry news and job portals, Alumni networks
Career Connection
Proactive and strategic placement preparation maximizes opportunities to secure desirable roles in India''''s competitive geological job market immediately upon graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. with Geology as a subject or B.Sc. Hons. in Geology from any recognized University with 55% marks or equivalent CGPA in aggregate (50% for SC/ST/PwD candidates)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 142 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 41101 | General Geology and Geomorphology | Core | 4 | Earth''''s Internal Structure and Composition, Plate Tectonics and Continental Drift, Processes of Weathering and Erosion, Fluvial, Aeolian, and Glacial Landforms, Basic Mineralogy and Petrology, Principles of Stratigraphy |
| AG 41102 | Structural Geology | Core | 4 | Stress and Strain in Rocks, Geometry and Classification of Folds, Mechanics and Types of Faults, Joints, Foliation, and Lineation, Geological Mapping and Cross Sections, Stereographic Projection Techniques |
| AG 41103 | Crystallography and Mineralogy | Core | 4 | Crystal Systems and Symmetry Elements, Optical Properties of Minerals, Classification of Minerals, Common Rock-Forming Minerals, Ore Minerals and Gemstones, X-ray Diffraction Principles |
| AG 41104 | Mathematics | Core | 4 | Differential and Integral Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Vector Calculus and Field Theory, Matrices and Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics for Geosciences, Numerical Methods in Geological Problems |
| AG 41105 | Physics | Core | 4 | Classical Mechanics and Gravity, Thermodynamics and Heat Flow, Electromagnetism and Wave Phenomena, Optics and Wave Propagation, Radioactivity and Radiometric Dating, Physics of Earth''''s Interior |
| AG 41201 | Crystallography and Mineralogy Practical | Lab | 2 | Study of Crystal Models, Hand Specimen Identification of Minerals, Preparation of Thin Sections, Petrographic Microscope Usage, Optical Properties of Isotropic Minerals, Optical Properties of Anisotropic Minerals |
| AG 41202 | Structural Geology Practical | Lab | 2 | Stereographic Projection Exercises, Plotting Structural Data, Interpretation of Geological Maps, Solving Structural Problems, Construction of Geological Cross-Sections, Field Sketching of Geological Structures |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 41106 | Principles of Stratigraphy, Sedimentology and Indian Geology | Core | 4 | Principles of Stratigraphy, Litho-, Bio-, and Chemostratigraphy, Sedimentary Processes and Environments, Facies Analysis and Sequence Stratigraphy, Stratigraphy of Peninsular India, Stratigraphy of Extra-Peninsular India |
| AG 41107 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 4 | Magma Generation and Crystallization, Classification of Igneous Rocks, Metamorphic Textures and Structures, Metamorphic Facies and Grade, Phase Equilibria in Igneous Systems, Phase Equilibria in Metamorphic Systems |
| AG 41108 | Palaeontology | Core | 4 | Origin and Evolution of Life, Fossilization Processes, Major Invertebrate Phyla, Vertebrate Fossils and Evolution, Micropalaeontology and its Applications, Palaeoecology and Palaeobiogeography |
| AG 41109 | Chemistry | Core | 4 | Inorganic Geochemistry Principles, Organic Chemistry Basics, Physical Chemistry Concepts, Analytical Techniques in Geology, Solution Chemistry and pH, Oxidation-Reduction Reactions |
| AG 41110 | Environmental Science | Core | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Control, Waste Management Strategies, Climate Change and its Impacts, Environmental Impact Assessment, Sustainable Development Goals |
| AG 41203 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology Practical | Lab | 2 | Identification of Igneous Rocks in Hand Specimen, Microscopic Study of Igneous Rocks, Identification of Metamorphic Rocks in Hand Specimen, Microscopic Study of Metamorphic Rocks, Interpretation of Textures and Structures, Classification Based on Petrographic Features |
| AG 41204 | Sedimentology and Palaeontology Practical | Lab | 2 | Grain Size Analysis of Sediments, Heavy Mineral Separation, Identification of Sedimentary Structures, Microfossil Identification, Megafossil Identification, Drawing and Description of Fossils |
| AG 41401 | Geological Field Training | Field/Industrial Training | 2 | Geological Mapping Techniques, Collection of Structural Data, Sampling of Rocks, Minerals, Fossils, Field Observation and Documentation, Preparation of Field Reports, Use of Geological Instruments |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 42101 | Economic Geology | Core | 4 | Ore Forming Processes, Classification of Mineral Deposits, Geology of Metallic Ore Deposits, Geology of Non-Metallic Mineral Deposits, Coal and Petroleum Geology, Mineral Exploration Techniques |
| AG 42102 | Remote Sensing and GIS | Core | 4 | Principles of Remote Sensing, Electromagnetic Radiation Spectrum, Digital Image Processing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Fundamentals, Spatial Data Models and Analysis, Applications in Geological Mapping and Exploration |
| AG 42103 | Geochemistry | Core | 4 | Cosmochemistry and Earth''''s Origin, Igneous and Metamorphic Geochemistry, Sedimentary and Environmental Geochemistry, Isotope Geochemistry Applications, Trace Elements in Geological Systems, Geochemical Analytical Techniques |
| AG 42104 | Exploration Geophysics | Core | 4 | Gravity Method and Data Interpretation, Magnetic Method and Anomalies, Seismic Refraction and Reflection, Electrical Resistivity Methods, Electromagnetic Survey Techniques, Well Logging and its Applications |
| AG 42105 | Hydrogeology | Core | 4 | Hydrological Cycle and Water Budget, Groundwater Occurrence and Movement, Aquifers and Aquifer Properties, Groundwater Exploration Methods, Water Quality and Contamination, Groundwater Management and Conservation |
| AG 42201 | Economic Geology Practical | Lab | 2 | Identification of Ore Minerals in Hand Specimen, Study of Ore Textures, Ore Microscopy Techniques, Preparation of Paragenetic Sequence, Reserve Estimation Basics, Mapping of Mineral Deposits |
| AG 42202 | Remote Sensing & GIS Practical | Lab | 2 | Image Interpretation and Enhancement, Georeferencing and Digitization, Thematic Map Preparation, Vector and Raster Data Operations, Spatial Analysis Techniques, Applications in Geological Studies |
| AG 42203 | Geochemistry Practical | Lab | 2 | Chemical Analysis of Rocks and Minerals, Water Sample Analysis for Major Ions, Trace Element Analysis Methods, Spectroscopic Techniques, Data Processing and Interpretation, Quality Control in Geochemical Analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 42106 | Engineering Geology | Core | 4 | Rock Mechanics and Soil Mechanics Basics, Geological Investigations for Civil Engineering, Geology of Dams and Reservoirs, Tunnel Geology and Construction, Slope Stability Analysis, Hazard Assessment and Mitigation |
| AG 42107 | Marine Geology | Core | 4 | Ocean Basins and Oceanography, Marine Sediments and Stratigraphy, Plate Tectonics in Marine Environments, Coastal Processes and Dynamics, Marine Mineral Resources, Palaeoceanography and Climate Change |
| AG 42108 | Mining Geology | Core | 4 | Geological Aspects of Prospecting, Sampling and Ore Body Delineation, Mine Planning and Design, Mine Valuation and Economics, Environmental Impact of Mining, Mining Laws and Regulations |
| AG 42109 | Computer Applications in Geology | Core | 4 | Spreadsheet Applications for Geological Data, Statistical Analysis in Geology, Introduction to Geological Software Packages, Data Visualization Techniques, Database Management Systems, Programming Basics for Geoscientists |
| AG 42204 | Hydrogeology Practical | Lab | 2 | Well Log Interpretation, Pumping Test Analysis, Water Table Mapping and Contour Plotting, Hydrogeological Cross-Sections, Water Quality Parameter Measurement, Groundwater Flow Direction Determination |
| AG 42205 | Engineering Geology Practical | Lab | 2 | Rock Strength Testing (UCS, Point Load), Soil Classification (IS Classification), Permeability Testing of Rocks and Soils, Geological Site Investigation Techniques, Core Logging and Interpretation, Preparation of Geological Sections |
| AG 42402 | Industrial Training | Field/Industrial Training | 3 | Exposure to Industry Workflows, Application of Geological Principles in Industry, Report Writing on Industrial Experience, Project Work in Industry Setting, Interaction with Industry Professionals, Health, Safety and Environment in Industry |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 51101 | Advanced Structural Geology | Core | 4 | Advanced Kinematic Analysis of Deformation, Microstructures and Mesostructures, Tectonic Analysis of Orogenic Belts, Shear Zones and Fault System Dynamics, Strain Analysis Techniques, Interpreting Complex Geological Structures |
| AG 51102 | Advanced Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 4 | Magmatic Differentiation and Evolution, Genesis of Mantle and Crustal Rocks, Phase Equilibria and Experimental Petrology, Geothermobarometry and Reaction Textures, Metamorphic Processes in Tectonic Settings, Petrogenesis of Specific Rock Suites |
| AG 51103 | Advanced Palaeontology | Core | 4 | Advanced Invertebrate Palaeontology, Vertebrate Palaeontology and Human Evolution, Micropalaeontology in Petroleum Exploration, Palaeobotany and Palynology, Evolutionary Trends and Patterns, Biostratigraphic Correlation and Zonation |
| AG 51104 | Geophysical Data Interpretation | Core | 4 | Interpretation of Gravity Anomalies, Magnetic Data Interpretation and Modelling, Seismic Data Processing and Interpretation, Electrical Resistivity Data Inversion, Electromagnetic Data Interpretation, Integration of Geophysical Data for Exploration |
| AG 51301 | Exploration Geochemistry (Elective - I Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Geochemical Cycles of Elements, Sampling Methods in Geochemical Exploration, Analytical Techniques for Trace Elements, Interpretation of Geochemical Anomalies, Pathfinders in Mineral Exploration, Environmental Geochemistry in Exploration |
| AG 51302 | Advanced Sedimentology (Elective - I Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Sedimentary Processes and Systems, Clastic and Carbonate Sedimentology, Modern and Ancient Depositional Environments, Diagenesis of Sedimentary Rocks, Basin Analysis and Hydrocarbon Traps, Sequence Stratigraphy Principles |
| AG 51303 | Geostatistics (Elective - I Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Basic Probability and Statistics, Spatial Data Analysis, Variography and Kriging, Uncertainty and Risk Assessment, Applications in Resource Estimation, Geostatistical Software Applications |
| AG 51304 | Petroleum Geology (Elective - I Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Origin and Migration of Hydrocarbons, Petroleum Systems Components, Source Rocks and Reservoir Rocks, Traps and Seals in Petroleum Geology, Exploration Strategies and Techniques, Geological Aspects of Drilling |
| AG 51305 | Groundwater Modelling (Elective - I Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Conceptual Models of Groundwater Flow, Analytical Models of Aquifers, Numerical Models and Finite Difference, Calibration and Validation of Models, Uncertainty in Groundwater Models, Software for Groundwater Modelling (MODFLOW) |
| AG 51306 | Environmental Geochemistry (Elective - I Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Geochemical Cycles and Pollution, Contaminant Transport in Geological Media, Acid Mine Drainage, Heavy Metal Contamination, Waste Disposal and Site Remediation, Geochemistry of Soil and Water Pollution |
| AG 51201 | Remote Sensing & GIS (Advanced) Practical | Lab | 2 | Advanced Image Processing Algorithms, Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Generation, Hyperspectral and LiDAR Data Processing, Object-Based Image Analysis, 3D Visualization of Geological Data, SAR Interferometry Basics |
| AG 51202 | Geophysical Data Interpretation Practical | Lab | 2 | Software for Gravity and Magnetic Modeling, Seismic Interpretation Workflows, Electrical and EM Data Processing, Integration of Multi-Geophysical Datasets, Case Studies in Resource Exploration, Preparation of Geophysical Reports |
| AG 51401 | Seminar | Project | 1 | Identification of Research Topics, Literature Review and Synthesis, Scientific Writing for Presentations, Public Speaking and Presentation Skills, Q&A Session Handling, Critique and Feedback Mechanisms |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AG 52101 | Ore Microscopy and Fluid Inclusions | Core | 4 | Principles of Ore Microscopy, Identification of Ore Minerals, Ore Textures and Paragenesis, Fluid Inclusions: Types and Formation, Microthermometry of Fluid Inclusions, Applications in Mineral Deposit Genesis |
| AG 52102 | Basin Analysis | Core | 4 | Classification of Sedimentary Basins, Tectonic Controls on Basin Formation, Stratigraphic Sequences and Facies Architecture, Subsidence Analysis and Thermal History, Petroleum Systems and Basin Modeling, Hydrocarbon Play Fairway Analysis |
| AG 52301 | Coal and Petroleum Exploration (Elective - II Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Geology of Coal Deposits, Coal Bed Methane Exploration, Petroleum Source Rock Evaluation, Reservoir Characterization Techniques, Seismic Interpretation for Hydrocarbons, Unconventional Hydrocarbon Resources |
| AG 52302 | Engineering Geophysics (Elective - II Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Near-Surface Geophysical Methods, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Seismic Refraction for Engineering, Electrical Resistivity for Civil Projects, Applications in Site Investigation, Geophysical Hazards Assessment |
| AG 52303 | Remote Sensing in Mineral Exploration (Elective - II Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Spectral Signatures of Minerals and Rocks, Satellite Imagery for Geological Mapping, Hyperspectral Remote Sensing, Structural Interpretation from Satellite Data, Integration with Geochemical Data, Targeting Mineral Deposits using RS |
| AG 52304 | Geothermal Energy (Elective - II Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Principles of Geothermal Energy, Types of Geothermal Systems, Geological and Geophysical Exploration, Drilling and Reservoir Engineering, Environmental Impacts of Geothermal Energy, Indian Geothermal Provinces |
| AG 52305 | Environmental Geology & Management (Elective - II Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Geological Hazards and Disaster Management, Contaminant Hydrogeology, Waste Disposal Site Selection, Landfill Design and Monitoring, Environmental Regulations in India, Risk Assessment in Environmental Geology |
| AG 52306 | Mineral Economics & Policy (Elective - II Option) | Elective Choice | 4 | Mineral Resource Classification, Valuation of Mineral Deposits, Mineral Markets and Trade, Mining Investment and Finance, National Mineral Policy of India, Sustainable Mineral Development |
| AG 52201 | Ore Microscopy and Fluid Inclusions Practical | Lab | 2 | Microscopic Identification of Opaque Minerals, Documentation of Ore Textures, Preparation of Fluid Inclusion Mounts, Microthermometric Analysis of Fluid Inclusions, Interpretation of Fluid Inclusion Data, Case Studies in Ore Deposit Genesis |
| AG 52402 | Project | Project | 12 | Formulation of Research Objectives, Methodology Design and Data Acquisition, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Scientific Report Writing, Thesis Preparation and Defense, Contribution to Geological Knowledge |
