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BSC in Geology at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Geology at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College Mayurbhanj?
This Geology Honours program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College, Mayurbhanj, focuses on Earth''''s materials, processes, and history, providing a comprehensive understanding of our planet. It covers petrology, structural geology, paleontology, and economic geology, aligning with India''''s growing demand for geo-scientists in mineral exploration, environmental management, and infrastructure development. The curriculum''''s blend of theoretical and practical knowledge prepares students for diverse geological challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for curious science graduates with a strong interest in Earth Sciences, keen to explore geological formations, natural resources, and environmental phenomena. It suits fresh 10+2 science pass-outs aspiring to careers in mining, oil and gas, hydrology, or environmental consulting in India. Graduates seeking to pursue higher studies in specialized geological fields or research will also find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India''''s public and private sectors, including roles at the Geological Survey of India, ONGC, Coal India, and various state mining corporations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals. The specialization provides a strong foundation for professional certifications in environmental geology or hydrogeology, enhancing career prospects.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Earth Science Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental concepts in Earth Materials, Igneous Petrology, and Environmental Studies. Focus on mineral identification, rock classification, and basic geological processes. Utilize diagrams, physical models, and online resources for visualization.
Tools & Resources
Physical mineral/rock samples, geological maps, online educational videos (e.g., NPTEL, Khan Academy), geology textbooks
Career Connection
A strong foundation in these core subjects is crucial for advanced topics and forms the basis for roles in geological surveying, resource identification, and environmental assessment.
Develop Practical Identification Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all lab sessions for Earth Materials and Igneous Petrology. Practice megascopic and microscopic identification of minerals and rocks. Maintain a detailed lab record with sketches and observations. Form study groups to discuss and identify samples.
Tools & Resources
Microscopes, rock and mineral kits, lab manuals, geology software for image analysis (if available in labs)
Career Connection
Proficiency in practical identification is essential for fieldwork, mineral exploration, and petrological analysis in industries like mining and construction.
Build Scientific Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in AECC courses (Environmental Studies, English Communication). Practice scientific writing for lab reports and presentations. Focus on clear, concise, and accurate communication of geological information. Seek feedback on your writing and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, presentation software (PowerPoint/Google Slides), academic writing guides, peer review groups
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for reporting findings to clients, presenting research, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams in any geological profession.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork and Mapping Exercises- (Semester 3-4)
Prioritize and actively participate in any geological field training or excursions offered, particularly those related to Structural Geology, Sedimentary Petrology, and Paleontology. Learn to use geological tools, collect samples, and create basic geological maps and cross-sections. This is critical for practical understanding.
Tools & Resources
Brunton compass, geological hammer, hand lens, GPS, topographic maps, field notebooks
Career Connection
Field experience is highly valued in exploration geology, engineering geology, and environmental impact assessment roles, enhancing employability with organizations like the GSI or private consultancies.
Explore GIS and Remote Sensing Skills- (Semester 3-5)
If chosen as an SEC or similar, deeply engage with GIS and Remote Sensing. Learn to interpret satellite imagery, create thematic maps, and use GIS software for spatial analysis. If not formally taught, explore free online courses or software tutorials.
Tools & Resources
QGIS (free), Google Earth Engine, ArcGIS (if licensed by college), online tutorials (e.g., Udemy, Coursera)
Career Connection
GIS and Remote Sensing skills are in high demand for modern geological mapping, resource exploration, disaster management, and urban planning roles across India.
Network with Professionals and Join Geological Societies- (Semester 3-5)
Attend geology-related webinars, seminars, and workshops. Connect with faculty and alumni working in the industry. Consider joining student chapters of professional geological societies (if available) to gain insights and mentorship. This broadens your exposure to career paths.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, college alumni network, professional societies like Geological Society of India, Indian Association of Sedimentologists
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, research opportunities, and potential job referrals within the Indian geological community, enhancing your visibility and career options.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 5-6)
Carefully select Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) based on your career interests, whether it''''s hydrogeology, economic geology, environmental geology, or petroleum geology. Focus on gaining in-depth knowledge and practical skills in your chosen specialization to become industry-ready.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks, research papers, industry reports, expert lectures related to chosen DSEs
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more targeted candidate for specific roles in sectors like oil and gas, mineral exploration, water resource management, or environmental consulting, improving placement prospects.
Undertake an Industry-Relevant Project/Internship- (Semester 5-6)
Seek opportunities for a final year project or internship with geological organizations, mining companies, or environmental consultancies. This provides hands-on experience, applies theoretical knowledge, and builds a professional portfolio. Focus on a problem-solving approach.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, faculty contacts, online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), company websites
Career Connection
An internship is invaluable for gaining real-world experience, making industry contacts, and often converting into a full-time job offer or a strong recommendation for placements in Indian companies.
Prepare for Competitive Exams and Higher Studies- (Semester 5-6)
If aspiring for government jobs (e.g., GSI, UPSC Geo-Scientist) or postgraduate studies (MSc/PhD), begin dedicated preparation. Focus on general knowledge, aptitude, and advanced geological concepts. Practice mock tests and previous year question papers. Stay updated on exam patterns.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/GSI previous year papers, standard reference books for Geology, coaching institutes (if opting), online test series
Career Connection
Success in competitive exams leads to prestigious government positions, while strong academic performance paves the way for advanced research and teaching careers in India and abroad.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (for theory papers based on 15/75 marks), External: 80% (for theory papers based on 60/75 marks)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-I | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and the Environment |
| GEOL-C1 | Earth Materials | Core | 6 | Crystal Morphology and Symmetry, Physical and Chemical Properties of Minerals, Optical Properties of Minerals, Classification of Igneous Rocks, Classification of Sedimentary Rocks, Classification of Metamorphic Rocks |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective I | Generic Elective | 6 | Specific topics depend on the chosen GE subject |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-II | English Communication / MIL | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Language and Communication Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Public Speaking |
| GEOL-C2 | Igneous Petrology | Core | 6 | Magma Genesis and Composition, Igneous Rock Textures and Structures, Classification of Igneous Rocks, Petrography of Igneous Rocks, Magmatic Differentiation and Crystallization, Plate Tectonics and Igneous Activity |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective II | Generic Elective | 6 | Specific topics depend on the chosen GE subject |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C3 | Sedimentary Petrology | Core | 6 | Sedimentation Processes and Environments, Sedimentary Textures and Structures, Classification of Sedimentary Rocks, Petrography of Sedimentary Rocks, Provenance and Diagenesis, Introduction to Basin Analysis |
| GEOL-C4 | Structural Geology | Core | 6 | Stress and Strain in Rocks, Deformation Mechanisms, Description and Classification of Folds, Faults and Joints, Stereographic Projection, Geological Mapping |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course I | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Choice-based subject (e.g., GIS and Remote Sensing, Groundwater Targeting, Introduction to Mining, Geological Field Training), Key topics depend on specific course chosen |
| GEOL-SEC1A | GIS and Remote Sensing | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Fundamentals of Remote Sensing, Aerial Photography, Satellite Remote Sensing, GIS Concepts and Components, Georeferencing and Digitization, Spatial Data Analysis |
| GEOL-SEC1B | Groundwater Targeting | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Hydrogeological Cycle, Aquifers and Aquicludes, Groundwater Exploration Techniques, Well Drilling Methods, Water Quality Assessment, Groundwater Management |
| GEOL-SEC1C | Introduction to Mining | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Mining Cycle, Surface and Underground Mining Methods, Mineral Processing, Mine Environment and Safety, Mine Waste Management, Indian Mining Industry Overview |
| GEOL-SEC1D | Geological Field Training | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Geological Instruments and Tools, Field Observation Techniques, Sampling Procedures, Field Sketching and Documentation, Basic Mapping Exercises, Safety Protocols in Fieldwork |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective III | Generic Elective | 6 | Specific topics depend on the chosen GE subject |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C5 | Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 6 | Metamorphism and its Controls, Metamorphic Facies and Zones, Classification of Metamorphic Rocks, Petrography of Metamorphic Rocks, Metamorphic Textures and Structures, Role of Fluids in Metamorphism |
| GEOL-C6 | Paleontology | Core | 6 | Principles of Paleontology and Fossilization, Invertebrate Paleontology (Mollusca, Brachiopoda), Vertebrate Paleontology (Fishes, Amphibians), Micropaleontology (Foraminifera, Ostracods), Paleobotany (Plant Fossils), Biostratigraphy |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course II | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Choice-based subject (e.g., Environmental Geology, Exploration Geology, Gemology, Geological Field Training), Key topics depend on specific course chosen |
| GEOL-SEC2A | Environmental Geology | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Environmental Impact Assessment, Geological Hazards (Earthquakes, Landslides), Waste Management (Solid Waste, Nuclear Waste), Water Resources Management, Land Degradation and Soil Erosion, Climate Change and Geo-environmental Issues |
| GEOL-SEC2B | Exploration Geology | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Principles of Mineral Exploration, Geochemical Exploration Methods, Geophysical Exploration Methods, Drilling Techniques, Sampling and Assaying, Resource Estimation |
| GEOL-SEC2C | Gemology | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Properties of Gemstones, Identification of Gemstones, Synthetic and Imitation Gemstones, Origin and Occurrence of Gemstones, Cutting and Polishing Techniques, Gemstone Valuation |
| GEOL-SEC2D | Geological Field Training | Skill Enhancement Course (Option) | 2 | Geological Instruments and Tools, Field Observation Techniques, Sampling Procedures, Field Sketching and Documentation, Basic Mapping Exercises, Safety Protocols in Fieldwork |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective IV | Generic Elective | 6 | Specific topics depend on the chosen GE subject |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C7 | Indian Stratigraphy | Core | 6 | Principles of Stratigraphy, Geological Time Scale, Precambrian Stratigraphy of India, Paleozoic Stratigraphy of India, Mesozoic Stratigraphy of India, Cenozoic Stratigraphy of India |
| GEOL-C8 | Economic Geology | Core | 6 | Ore Genesis and Mineralization Processes, Mineral Exploration Techniques, Metallic Mineral Deposits (Iron, Copper, Gold), Non-Metallic Mineral Deposits (Limestone, Mica), Fuel Resources (Coal, Petroleum, Natural Gas), Strategic and Critical Minerals of India |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective I | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choice-based subject (e.g., Engineering Geology, Hydrogeology, Mining Geology, Petroleum Geology), Key topics depend on specific course chosen |
| GEOL-DSE1A | Engineering Geology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Physical Properties of Rocks and Soils, Geological Investigations for Engineering Projects, Foundation Engineering, Dams, Tunnels, and Road Construction, Geological Hazards in Engineering, Case Studies in Engineering Geology |
| GEOL-DSE1B | Hydrogeology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Hydrological Cycle and Groundwater Occurrence, Aquifer Properties and Groundwater Flow, Groundwater Exploration and Development, Groundwater Quality and Contamination, Managed Aquifer Recharge, Groundwater Modeling |
| GEOL-DSE1C | Mining Geology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Mining Methods (Surface and Underground), Mine Planning and Design, Mineral Beneficiation, Mine Environment and Safety, Mining Laws and Regulations in India, Economic Aspects of Mining |
| GEOL-DSE1D | Petroleum Geology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Origin and Accumulation of Petroleum, Petroleum Systems (Source, Reservoir, Seal), Exploration Techniques (Seismic, Drilling), Well Logging and Formation Evaluation, Petroleum Traps and Basins, Indian Petroleum Scenario |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective II | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choice-based subject (e.g., Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, Sedimentary Petrology, Palaeontology and Stratigraphy, Geochemistry), Key topics depend on specific course chosen |
| GEOL-DSE2A | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Advanced Igneous Rock Classification, Phase Equilibria in Igneous Systems, Textures and Structures of Metamorphic Rocks, Metamorphic Reaction Progress, Field Relationship of Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, Microscopic Petrography |
| GEOL-DSE2B | Sedimentary Petrology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Clastic Sedimentology, Carbonate Sedimentology, Evaporites and Cherts, Sedimentary Basins and Facies Analysis, Geochemistry of Sediments, Sequence Stratigraphy |
| GEOL-DSE2C | Palaeontology and Stratigraphy | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Evolution of Life Forms, Major Invertebrate Phyla (advanced study), Vertebrate Evolution and Fossil Record, Paleoecology and Paleoclimatology, Principles of Chronostratigraphy, Regional Stratigraphy of Peninsular India |
| GEOL-DSE2D | Geochemistry | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Fundamental Geochemical Principles, Elemental Abundance in Earth, Trace Element Geochemistry, Isotope Geochemistry (Stable and Radiogenic), Environmental Geochemistry, Analytical Techniques in Geochemistry |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C9 | Geochemistry | Core | 6 | Cosmochemistry and Planetary Differentiation, Geochemical Cycles of Elements, Aqueous Geochemistry, Environmental Geochemistry (Pollution), Isotope Geochemistry Applications, Analytical Techniques (AAS, ICP-MS) |
| GEOL-C10 | Remote Sensing and GIS in Geology | Core | 6 | Principles of Remote Sensing and EMR, Satellite Systems and Sensors, Image Interpretation and Processing, GIS Data Models and Database, Spatial Analysis in Geology, Applications in Mineral and Water Exploration |
| GEOL-C11 | Environmental Geology and Natural Hazards | Core | 6 | Human Impact on Geological Environment, Geological Hazards (Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Floods), Waste Management (Solid, Liquid, Radioactive), Environmental Impact Assessment, Climate Change and Geological Processes, Land Use Planning and Environmental Policy |
| GEOL-C12 | Engineering Geology | Core | 6 | Properties of Rocks and Soils (Engineering Aspects), Geological Investigations for Infrastructure, Site Selection for Dams and Reservoirs, Tunneling and Highway Construction, Slope Stability and Landslides, Groundwater Problems in Engineering |
| GEOL-C13 | Hydrogeology | Core | 6 | Hydrological Cycle and Water Budget, Types of Aquifers and Aquicludes, Groundwater Flow and Well Hydraulics, Groundwater Exploration Methods (Electrical Resistivity), Groundwater Quality and Pollution, Groundwater Resource Management |
| GEOL-C14 | Mineral Exploration and Mining Geology | Core | 6 | Principles of Mineral Deposits, Stages of Mineral Exploration, Geological, Geochemical, Geophysical Exploration, Drilling and Sampling Techniques, Resource and Reserve Estimation, Overview of Mining Methods and Practices |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective III | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choice-based subject (e.g., Geomorphology, Exploration Geophysics, Advanced Structural Geology, Marine Geology), Key topics depend on specific course chosen |
| GEOL-DSE3A | Geomorphology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Introduction to Geomorphology, Fluvial Geomorphology, Glacial and Periglacial Geomorphology, Aeolian and Coastal Geomorphology, Denudation Chronology, Applied Geomorphology |
| GEOL-DSE3B | Exploration Geophysics | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Principles of Geophysics, Gravity Methods in Exploration, Magnetic Methods in Exploration, Seismic Methods (Reflection, Refraction), Electrical and Electromagnetic Methods, Remote Sensing in Geophysics |
| GEOL-DSE3C | Advanced Structural Geology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Finite and Infinitesimal Strain Analysis, Shear Zones and Mylonites, Superposed Deformation, Tectonic Regimes and Stress Fields, Structural Styles of Orogenic Belts, Introduction to Tectonophysics |
| GEOL-DSE3D | Marine Geology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Oceanography and Seafloor Morphology, Marine Sediments and Sedimentation, Marine Mineral Resources, Coastal Processes and Management, Paleoceanography and Climate Change, Marine Geological Hazards |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective IV | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choice-based subject (e.g., Environmental Geoscience, Mineral Exploration, Tectonics, Coal and Petroleum Geology), Key topics depend on specific course chosen |
| GEOL-DSE4A | Environmental Geoscience | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Environmental Earth Materials, Water and Air Pollution (Geological Aspects), Landfills and Waste Disposal, Contaminant Hydrogeology, Risk Assessment in Geo-environment, Geological Solutions for Environmental Problems |
| GEOL-DSE4B | Mineral Exploration | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Ore Deposit Models, Target Generation and Prospecting, Geological Mapping in Exploration, Geophysical Survey Design and Interpretation, Drilling and Core Logging, Economic Evaluation of Mineral Prospects |
| GEOL-DSE4C | Tectonics | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Plate Tectonics Theory, Plate Boundaries and Processes, Continental Rifting and Ocean Basins, Orogenesis and Mountain Building, Crustal Deformation and Rheology, Tectonics of the Indian Plate |
| GEOL-DSE4D | Coal and Petroleum Geology | Discipline Specific Elective (Option) | 6 | Origin and Classification of Coal, Coal Petrology and Rank, Coal Basins of India, Origin and Migration of Petroleum, Petroleum Reservoirs and Traps, Exploration and Production of Hydrocarbons |
