

M-SC in Geology at University of Delhi


Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Geology at University of Delhi Delhi?
This M.Sc. Geology program at the University of Delhi provides a comprehensive understanding of Earth sciences, from fundamental processes to applied aspects. It emphasizes theoretical knowledge alongside extensive practical and field-based training, crucial for understanding India''''s diverse geological landscape and resource potential. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical and critical thinking skills in geological interpretation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Science graduates with a strong foundation in Geology, aspiring researchers, and individuals seeking careers in natural resource exploration, environmental management, or academia. It also caters to those looking to upskill for roles in public sector undertakings and government geological surveys, requiring a rigorous academic background.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Coal India Limited (CIL), and various state mining and groundwater departments. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program also prepares students for higher studies and research positions in leading institutions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Core Geological Disciplines- (Semesters 1-2)
Focus on building a robust understanding of fundamental subjects like Mineralogy, Petrology, Structural Geology, Geochemistry, Sedimentary Geology, Palaeontology, and Stratigraphy. Regularly attend practicals, field trips, and actively engage in lab-based identification and analysis.
Tools & Resources
Official textbooks, geological maps, rock/mineral samples, petrographic microscopes, Departmental library, open-access geological journals
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are essential for all career paths, from resource exploration to environmental consulting, laying the groundwork for competitive exams like UPSC Geologist Examination.
Develop Essential Field and Lab Skills- (Semesters 1-2)
Prioritize hands-on experience in practical sessions for mineral and rock identification, structural data collection, and basic geochemical analysis. Participate in any introductory field visits organized by the department to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world geological features.
Tools & Resources
Geological hammers, compass-clinometers, hand lenses, GPS devices, basic lab equipment, field notebooks
Career Connection
Practical skills are highly valued in entry-level positions in mining, geological surveys, and environmental assessment firms across India.
Cultivate Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving- (Semesters 1-2)
Actively participate in class discussions, solve geological problems, and critically analyze case studies in subjects like Tectonics and Engineering Geology. Engage with faculty for clarification and deeper understanding of complex geological processes and their implications.
Tools & Resources
Case studies, problem sets, academic papers, mentorship from professors
Career Connection
This builds the critical thinking required for geological interpretation, hazard assessment, and resource planning, preparing for analytical roles in government and industry.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection and Specialization- (Semesters 3-4)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) and Open Electives carefully based on your career interests, whether it''''s petroleum, hydrogeology, environmental geology, or advanced palaeontology. Utilize these courses to deepen expertise in a chosen sub-field for enhanced career prospects.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, faculty advisors, industry insights from guest lectures, career counseling
Career Connection
Specialization enhances employability in niche sectors and prepares for advanced research or specific industry roles, such as a hydrogeologist in a water management firm or a petroleum geologist.
Intensive Research Project and Scientific Communication- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the Semester IV Project Work. This involves defining a research problem, collecting and analyzing data (field, lab, or GIS-based), and writing a comprehensive report. Practice presenting your findings effectively to academic and potential industry audiences.
Tools & Resources
Research journals, statistical software (e.g., R, Python), GIS software (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS), scientific writing guides, presentation tools
Career Connection
Develops independent research capability, data interpretation skills, and communication prowess, critical for research organizations, consultancies, and higher studies in India and abroad.
Proactive Networking and Industry Engagement- (Semesters 3-4)
Actively seek internships, participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences related to your chosen specialization. Network with professionals from organizations like GSI, ONGC, CIL, WAPCOS, and environmental consulting firms to gain industry insights.
Tools & Resources
Professional networking events, LinkedIn, university career services, alumni network, departmental industry visits
Career Connection
Direct exposure to industry practices, potential job leads, mentorship, and a better understanding of industry expectations, significantly boosting placement prospects in the competitive Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Geology or B.Sc. (General) with Geology from University of Delhi or any other university whose examination is recognized by the University of Delhi as equivalent, subject to having secured 50% or more marks in Geology.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLY-C001 | Geochemistry | Core | 4 | Composition of Earth, Geochemical Cycles, Chemical Thermodynamics, Crystal Chemistry, Isotope Geochemistry |
| GLY-C002 | Structural Geology and Tectonics | Core | 4 | Stress and Strain, Brittle and Ductile Deformation, Faults and Folds, Rheology of Geological Materials, Plate Tectonics |
| GLY-C003 | Mineralogy and Crystallography | Core | 4 | Crystal Symmetry and Systems, Optical Mineralogy, Silicate Mineralogy, Non-silicate Mineralogy, Mineral Identification Techniques |
| GLY-C004 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | Core | 4 | Magma Generation and Crystallization, Igneous Rock Classification, Metamorphic Textures and Structures, Metamorphic Facies, Plate Tectonics and Petrogenesis |
| GLY-CP001 | Practical-I | Core (Practical) | 4 | Mineral and Rock Identification, Petrographic Studies, Structural Data Analysis, Geochemical Sample Preparation, Field Observation Techniques |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLY-C005 | Sedimentary Geology | Core | 4 | Sediment Transport and Deposition, Sedimentary Structures, Facies Analysis, Carbonates and Evaporites, Diagenesis |
| GLY-C006 | Palaeontology | Core | 4 | Fossilization and Taphonomy, Invertebrate Palaeontology, Vertebrate Palaeontology, Micropalaeontology, Biostratigraphy |
| GLY-C007 | Stratigraphy | Core | 4 | Principles of Stratigraphy, Geological Time Scale, Indian Stratigraphy (Precambrian, Palaeozoic), Mesozoic and Cenozoic Stratigraphy of India, Unconformities and Facies Changes |
| GLY-C008 | Engineering Geology and Remote Sensing | Core | 4 | Engineering Properties of Rocks and Soils, Site Investigations and Foundation Geology, Geological Hazards (Landslides, Earthquakes), Aerial Photography and Satellite Remote Sensing, GIS Applications in Geology |
| GLY-CP002 | Practical-II | Core (Practical) | 4 | Sediment Analysis Techniques, Fossil Identification and Description, Stratigraphic Correlation Methods, Remote Sensing Image Interpretation, Engineering Geology Case Studies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLY-C009 | Mineral Deposits and Economic Geology | Core | 4 | Ore-Forming Processes, Metallic and Non-metallic Deposits, Coal and Petroleum Geology, Exploration Techniques, Mineral Resources of India |
| GLY-C010 | Hydrogeology | Core | 4 | Hydrological Cycle, Groundwater Occurrence and Movement, Aquifer Systems, Groundwater Exploration and Management, Water Quality and Contamination |
| GLY-EOE-1 | Open Elective - 1 (Example: Earth, Environment and Society) | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Environmental Hazards, Climate Change, Geological Resources, Sustainable Development, Societal Impact of Geology |
| GLY-DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - 1 (Example: Advanced Palaeontology and Biostratigraphy) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Microfossils and their Applications, Paleobotany, Quantitative Biostratigraphy, Paleoclimate and Paleoecology, Evolutionary Palaeontology |
| GLY-CP003 | Practical-III | Core (Practical) | 4 | Identification of Economic Minerals and Ores, Hydrogeological Field Mapping, Groundwater Quality Analysis, Geological Exploration Data Interpretation, Environmental Geology Case Studies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLY-PR001 | Project Work | Core (Project) | 8 | Research Problem Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Report Writing, Presentation of Research Findings, Field/Laboratory Investigation |
| GLY-EOE-2 | Open Elective - 2 | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Interdisciplinary topics as chosen by student, Concepts from other science disciplines, Social aspects of science, Applied sciences, Environmental issues |
| GLY-DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - 2 (Example: Geodynamics) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Mantle Convection, Earth''''s Magnetic Field, Seismic Tomography, Orogenesis and Basin Formation, Tectonic Modelling |
| GLY-CP004 | Practical/Field Work | Core (Practical) | 4 | Advanced Geological Mapping, Integrated Data Interpretation, Specialized Laboratory Techniques, Field-based Problem Solving, Presentation of Field Observations |




