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B-SC-HONS 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 B.Sc. (Hons) Geology program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on the comprehensive study of Earth''''s structure, processes, and materials. It delves into petrology, paleontology, structural geology, and economic geology, providing a strong scientific foundation. The program emphasizes India''''s rich geological diversity and resource potential, preparing students for roles in mining, exploration, and environmental sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh science graduates with a keen interest in Earth sciences, environmental conservation, and resource management. It also suits individuals passionate about fieldwork, data analysis, and contributing to sustainable development in industries like oil and gas, mineral exploration, and infrastructure. Students with strong analytical skills and a desire to understand natural phenomena will thrive here.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in geological surveys, mining companies, oil and gas exploration firms, and environmental consultancies within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong foundation also prepares students for M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, and for roles aligned with organizations like the Geological Survey of India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Geological Concepts and Field Observation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding fundamental concepts in Earth''''s materials and processes. Actively participate in practical sessions, learning to identify minerals, rocks, and basic geological structures. Maintain a detailed field notebook for observations during any local excursions.
Tools & Resources
Geology department''''s rock and mineral collection, Virtual geological tours, Textbooks (e.g., Physical Geology by Arthur Holmes), Online resources like NPTEL geology courses
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are essential for all advanced geological studies and any role in exploration, mapping, or resource assessment, forming the bedrock of a successful career.
Develop Scientific Communication and Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Improve English communication skills through active participation in classroom discussions, presentation of basic geological concepts, and writing clear, concise lab reports. Critically analyze geological diagrams, maps, and research papers to build problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
College library, Academic writing guides, Peer study groups, Online grammar and writing tools, Debates on environmental issues
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for conveying technical information to diverse audiences, from team members to clients and policymakers in various geological sectors.
Engage in Peer Learning and Departmental Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex topics, prepare for exams, and collaboratively solve problems. Attend departmental seminars, workshops, or guest lectures to gain broader insights into geological applications and career prospects.
Tools & Resources
Department notice boards, Student common rooms, College events calendar, Senior students as mentors
Career Connection
Building a network early fosters collaborative skills, enhances understanding of industry trends, and opens doors to mentorship and future opportunities within the geological community.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Hands-on Experience with Geological Mapping & Lab Techniques- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in geological field mapping exercises, learning to use a Brunton Compass, interpreting toposheets, and preparing geological cross-sections. Master laboratory techniques for petrographic analysis (thin sections) and fossil identification.
Tools & Resources
Brunton Compass, Geological hammers, Hand lenses, Petrological microscopes, Fossil collections, Geological maps of India
Career Connection
Practical field and lab skills are directly applicable and highly valued in mineral exploration, geological surveys, and environmental assessment roles across India, boosting immediate employability.
Explore Elective Specializations and Industry Trends- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully choose Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) and Discipline Specific Electives (DSE) that align with career interests (e.g., Environmental Geology, Gemology, Energy Resources). Research current industry trends in mining, oil and gas, or environmental sectors to understand demand.
Tools & Resources
Industry reports, Professional geological societies (e.g., Geological Society of India), Career counseling, Alumni network
Career Connection
Specializing early enhances employability and provides a competitive edge in specific sectors of the Indian geological industry, aligning skills with market needs.
Undertake Mini-Projects and Summer Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities for short-term research projects under faculty guidance or summer internships with local geological firms, mining companies, or environmental consultancies. Document all experiences thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, College placement cell, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala), Industry contacts
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience, help build a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers in Indian companies, accelerating career launch.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Advanced Fieldwork and Project Implementation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant effort to the Field Geology course, developing comprehensive geological mapping skills, structural data collection, and report writing. Undertake a major project or dissertation that integrates knowledge from various sub-disciplines.
Tools & Resources
Advanced geological mapping software (if available), Geological survey reports, Academic journals, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Mastery of fieldwork and project management skills is crucial for roles in geological exploration, site investigations, and research positions within India and abroad.
Prepare for Higher Studies and Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6 (ongoing))
For those aspiring for M.Sc. or Ph.D., begin preparing for entrance exams like GATE (Geology & Geophysics), IIT JAM, or university-specific tests. Research various specializations and top institutions in India for advanced geological studies.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes, Online learning platforms, University prospectuses, Career guidance cells
Career Connection
Higher education often leads to specialized research roles, academic positions, or senior leadership roles in the Indian geological industry, enabling greater impact.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network for Placements- (Semester 6)
Compile a portfolio of projects, field reports, and internship experiences. Attend campus placement drives, mock interviews, and workshops on resume building. Network with alumni and industry professionals through LinkedIn or professional geological events.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional networking events, College placement office, Alumni association, Resume/CV builders
Career Connection
A strong portfolio and professional network significantly enhance job prospects and provide access to unadvertised opportunities in the Indian geological sector, securing desired positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 (as per syllabus document, sum of components is 144) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (Mid Semester Examination for both theory and practical components), External: 80% (End Semester Examination for both theory and practical components)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C1 | Earth''''s Materials | Core | 6 | Introduction to Geology, Mineralogy, Optical Mineralogy, Igneous Rocks, Sedimentary Rocks, Metamorphic Rocks |
| AECC-I | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental pollution, Human population and environment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C2 | Earth''''s Processes | Core | 6 | Weathering and Erosion, Mass Wasting, Fluvial Processes, Glacial and Aeolian Processes, Oceanic Processes, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Plate Tectonics |
| AECC-II | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Language of communication, Reading skills, Writing skills, Listening and speaking skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C3 | Structural Geology | Core | 6 | Stress and Strain, Folds, Faults, Joints and Lineaments, Unconformities, Igneous and Metamorphic Structures |
| GEOL-C4 | Paleontology | Core | 6 | Fossils and Fossilization, Invertebrate Paleontology (Brachiopods, Bivalves, Gastropods), Cephalopods, Trilobites, Echinoderms, Vertebrate Paleontology, Paleobotany, Micropaleontology |
| SEC-I | Geological Field Mapping | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Toposheets and Base Maps, Brunton Compass usage, Geological symbols, Strike and Dip measurement, Geological Cross-sections, Field data recording |
| GE-I | Generic Elective - I | Elective | 6 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C5 | Stratigraphy | Core | 6 | Principles of Stratigraphy, Lithostratigraphy, Biostratigraphy, Chronostratigraphy, Geological Time Scale, Stratigraphy of Precambrian India, Stratigraphy of Paleozoic and Mesozoic India, Stratigraphy of Cenozoic India |
| GEOL-C6 | Igneous Petrology | Core | 6 | Magma and its properties, Crystallization of Magma, Igneous Rock Textures and Structures, Classification of Igneous Rocks, Petrogenesis of Basaltic Rocks, Petrogenesis of Granitic and Ultramafic Rocks |
| SEC-II | Gemology | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Physical Properties of Gemstones, Optical Properties of Gemstones, Identification of Gemstones, Synthetic and Treated Gemstones, Famous Gemstones, Gemstone occurrences |
| GE-II | Generic Elective - II | Elective | 6 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C7 | Sedimentary Petrology | Core | 6 | Sedimentary Processes, Sedimentary Structures, Textures of Sedimentary Rocks, Classification of Siliciclastic Rocks, Carbonate Rocks, Evaporites and Phosphorites |
| GEOL-C8 | Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 6 | Metamorphism and Metamorphic Agents, Metamorphic Textures and Structures, Metamorphic Facies, Classification of Metamorphic Rocks, Metamorphism of Pelitic Rocks, Metamorphism of Basic and Carbonate Rocks |
| GEOL-C9 | Economic Geology | Core | 6 | Ore Deposits and Ore Minerals, Processes of Ore Formation, Classification of Ore Deposits, Metallogeny and Prospecting, Metallic Mineral Deposits of India, Non-metallic Mineral Deposits of India |
| DSE-I | Environmental Geology | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Environmental Hazards, Waste Disposal Management, Water Pollution and Remediation, Soil Degradation and Conservation, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Urban Geology |
| DSE-II | Energy Resources | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Coal and its formation, Petroleum Geology, Natural Gas and Shale Gas, Nuclear Energy Resources, Geothermal Energy, Renewable Energy Sources |
| GE-III | Generic Elective - III | Elective | 6 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOL-C10 | Hydrogeology | Core | 6 | Hydrological Cycle, Occurrence and Movement of Groundwater, Aquifers and Aquicludes, Darcy''''s Law and Hydraulic Conductivity, Groundwater Exploration Techniques, Groundwater Quality and Artificial Recharge |
| GEOL-C11 | Engineering Geology | Core | 6 | Engineering Properties of Rocks and Soils, Geological Investigations for Dams, Geological Investigations for Tunnels, Geological Investigations for Bridges, Landslides and Slope Stability, Earthquakes and Seismic Hazard |
| GEOL-C12 | Exploration Geophysics | Core | 6 | Gravity Method, Magnetic Method, Seismic Method (Refraction and Reflection), Electrical Method (Resistivity and IP), Radiometric Method, Borehole Geophysics |
| DSE-III | Mining Geology | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Prospecting and Exploration Methods, Sampling and Ore Reserve Estimation, Mine Development and Planning, Mining Methods (Surface and Underground), Environmental Impacts of Mining, Mine Safety |
| DSE-IV | Geochemistry | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Composition of Earth, Geochemical Cycles, Trace Elements in Minerals and Rocks, Isotope Geochemistry, Geochemical Exploration, Analytical Techniques in Geochemistry |
| GE-IV | Generic Elective - IV | Elective | 6 |
