.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-SC in Geology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Geology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.Sc. Geology program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on comprehensive understanding of Earth''''s processes, materials, and resources. With India''''s growing infrastructure and resource needs, the program emphasizes practical skills for exploration, environmental assessment, and natural hazard management, preparing students for critical roles in national development and industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for geology, physics, chemistry, or engineering graduates seeking entry into earth science careers, particularly in India''''s mining, oil & gas, and environmental sectors. It also suits professionals aiming to upskill in specialized areas like hydrogeology, remote sensing, or engineering geology, and career changers transitioning into the rapidly evolving geo-spatial industry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in PSUs like ONGC, GSI, and coal companies, or private firms in mineral exploration and environmental consulting. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential. The curriculum aligns with requirements for certifications in geological surveying and environmental impact assessment.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Geological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding fundamental principles of petrology, structural geology, and mineralogy. Utilize textbooks, reference materials, and online lecture series. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and solve problems collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Geology, Textbooks by Frank Press, S. K. Singh, Geological Survey of India (GSI) publications, University library resources
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for cracking competitive exams (like GSI, ONGC) and excelling in initial roles requiring analytical geological interpretation.
Develop Practical Identification Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in all lab sessions focusing on mineral, rock, and fossil identification. Practice repeatedly with hand specimens and under microscopes. Create detailed lab notebooks with sketches and descriptions to reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Online visual guides for mineral/rock identification, Virtual microscope applications, Local geological museums
Career Connection
Essential for field geologists, prospectors, and museum curators, enabling accurate on-site identification and data collection in India.
Cultivate Strong Field Observation Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all field trips and excursions. Practice systematic observation, data recording, and geological mapping techniques. Learn to use geological compasses, GPS, and take detailed field notes.
Tools & Resources
Geological compass-clinometer, GPS device, Field hammer, Waterproof notebooks, University field trip guidelines
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for field-based roles in exploration, environmental surveys, and engineering geology projects across India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Advanced Research and Thesis Development- (Semester 3-4)
Select a challenging research topic for your project work (Project Work I & II). Conduct thorough literature reviews, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present your findings in a well-structured thesis. Seek constructive feedback from mentors.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Statistical analysis software (R, SPSS)
Career Connection
Demonstrates independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and problem-solving, crucial for R&D roles, higher studies (PhD), and specialized scientific positions.
Network and Participate in Professional Events- (Semester 3-4)
Attend geological conferences, seminars, and workshops organized by professional bodies in India (e.g., Geological Society of India, Association of Exploration Geophysicists). Network with professionals and present your project work if possible.
Tools & Resources
Event calendars of geological societies, University career fairs, Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Builds professional connections, opens doors to hidden job opportunities, and keeps you updated on industry trends and requirements in India.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus placement drives. Prepare for technical interviews by reviewing core geology concepts and practicing aptitude tests. Simultaneously, prepare for competitive exams like GSI Geologist Exam, ONGC GT, and UPSC Civil Services (Geologist option).
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Interview guides, Mock interviews with faculty, Online test series for competitive exams
Career Connection
Maximizes chances of securing desirable placements in PSUs, MNCs, and private firms, or pursuing government sector careers in India immediately after graduation.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in Geology / Applied Geology / Geophysics / Physics / Chemistry / B.E./B.Tech. in Mining / Civil / Chemical / Environmental Engineering with a minimum of 60% aggregate.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 84 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEO21101 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 4 | Phase Rule, Magma generation, Igneous rock classification, Metamorphic textures, Regional and contact metamorphism |
| PGEO21102 | Sedimentary Petrology | Core | 4 | Sedimentation processes, Sedimentary structures, Carbonates and evaporites, Sandstones and shales, Diagenesis |
| PGEO21103 | Structural Geology | Core | 4 | Stress and Strain analysis, Folds and folding mechanisms, Faults and faulting, Shear zones, Tectonic regimes |
| PGEO21104 | Mineralogy | Core | 4 | Crystal chemistry, Physical properties of minerals, Silicate minerals, Non-silicate minerals, Gemmology |
| PGEO21105 | Geomorphology and Remote Sensing | Core | 3 | Landforms and processes, Fluvial and coastal geomorphology, Principles of remote sensing, Satellite imagery interpretation, GIS applications in geology |
| PGEO211L1 | Practical - I | Lab | 2 | Mineral identification, Rock identification, Structural data analysis, Geological map interpretation, Field exercises |
| PGEO211L2 | Practical - II | Lab | 2 | Sedimentary petrography, Igneous and metamorphic petrography, Remote sensing image analysis, Geomorphological mapping, Stereonet applications |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEO21201 | Hydrogeology | Core | 4 | Hydrological cycle, Aquifers and their properties, Groundwater flow and exploration, Water quality and pollution, Groundwater management |
| PGEO21202 | Palaeontology | Core | 4 | Fossilization processes, Invertebrate and vertebrate fossils, Micropalaeontology, Palaeoclimates and environment, Biostratigraphy |
| PGEO21203 | Economic Geology | Core | 4 | Ore genesis processes, Metallic and non-metallic mineral deposits, Industrial minerals, Mineral exploration techniques, Resource estimation |
| PGEO21204 | Exploration Geophysics | Core | 4 | Seismic methods (reflection/refraction), Gravity and magnetic methods, Electrical and electromagnetic methods, Radiometric and geothermal exploration, Well logging |
| PGEO21205 | Environmental Geology | Core | 3 | Natural hazards and mitigation, Environmental pollution, Waste management, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Climate change geology |
| PGEO212L1 | Practical - III | Lab | 2 | Hydrogeological mapping, Geophysical data interpretation, Fossil identification, Ore mineral identification, Geochemical analysis |
| PGEO212L2 | Practical - IV | Lab | 2 | Palaeontological analysis, Environmental sampling and testing, GIS for environmental studies, Ore petrography, Groundwater modelling |
| PGEO212FS | Field Study | Project/Fieldwork | 1 | Geological mapping techniques, Rock and soil sampling, Field data collection, Report preparation, Exposure to geological features |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEO21301 | Engineering Geology | Core | 4 | Rock and soil mechanics, Site investigation techniques, Geological aspects of dams and reservoirs, Tunnelling and underground excavations, Slope stability analysis |
| PGEO21302 | Mining Geology and Ore Petrology | Core | 4 | Ore microscopy, Ore deposit models, Mining methods and planning, Mine valuation, Geostatistics in mining |
| PGEO213E1 | Elective Option: Marine Geology | Elective Option | 4 | Ocean basin morphology, Marine sediments and resources, Ocean circulation, Coastal processes and hazards, Deep-sea exploration |
| PGEO213E2 | Elective Option: Petroleum Geology | Elective Option | 4 | Hydrocarbon generation, Source rocks and reservoir rocks, Trap mechanisms, Petroleum system analysis, Exploration techniques |
| PGEO213E3 | Elective Option: Geostatistics | Elective Option | 4 | Spatial data analysis, Variograms and covariance, Kriging and interpolation, Resource and reserve estimation, Geostatistical software applications |
| PGEO213E4 | Elective Option: Basin Analysis | Elective Option | 4 | Sedimentary basins and their types, Tectonic settings, Stratigraphy and sequence stratigraphy, Subsidence analysis, Petroleum play concepts |
| PGEO213E5 | Elective Option: Planetary Geology | Elective Option | 4 | Solar system formation, Planetary surface processes, Impact cratering, Extraterrestrial resources, Planetary exploration missions |
| PGEO213E6 | Elective Option: Disaster Management | Elective Option | 4 | Hazard assessment and risk analysis, Early warning systems, Mitigation strategies for geological hazards, Post-disaster recovery, Policy and governance in disaster management |
| PGEO213E7 | Elective Option: Geochemistry | Elective Option | 4 | Elemental cycles, Isotope geochemistry, Trace elements in geological systems, Geochemical exploration, Environmental geochemistry |
| PGEO213LY | Practical for Elective I | Lab | 2 | Practical application of chosen elective, Data analysis specific to elective field, Software applications, Case studies, Field techniques |
| PGEO213P1 | Project Work I | Project | 6 | Research methodology, Literature review, Data collection and processing, Preliminary data analysis, Progress report writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEO214LY | Practical for Elective II | Lab | 2 | Practical application of chosen second elective, Advanced data analysis, Specific software tools, Advanced case studies, Specialized field techniques |
| PGEO214P2 | Project Work II | Project | 11 | Independent research, Advanced data analysis and interpretation, Thesis writing, Scientific presentation skills, Comprehensive report preparation |
