MSci Engineering Geology and Geotechnics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSci Engineering Geology and Geotechnics at the University of Exeter combines geology, engineering, and environmental science to prepare students for careers focused on understanding and managing the ground beneath our infrastructure. The programme is designed for students interested in solving real-world challenges such as construction, site investigation, geohazard assessment, and sustainable development through a combination of fieldwork, laboratory learning, engineering principles, and independent research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
The first year introduces students to the core principles of Earth science and geological engineering. Through modules such as Earth System Science, Earth and Environmental Chemistry, Field Geology and Geological Maps, Quantitative Methods for Geoscientists, Dynamic Planet, Crystallography, Mineralogy and Gemstones, and Earth History and Palaeontology, students develop a strong understanding of geological processes, scientific analysis, and field investigation techniques.

Year 2
The second year builds students’ knowledge of geological structures and their applications in engineering projects. Modules including Structural Geology and Tectonics, Sedimentology and Stratigraphy, Geological Mapping Techniques, Geotechnics, Igneous and Metamorphic Geology, and Igneous and Metamorphic Processes help students understand the behaviour of rocks and soils and how geological information supports engineering decisions.

Year 3
The third year focuses on applying geological knowledge to practical engineering challenges. Students study modules such as Surface Excavation Design, GIS for Geologists, Hydrogeology, International Field Class, and the Dissertation Project, while optional modules including Tunnelling and Excavation Design, Contaminated Land Management and Remediation, Exploration Techniques, Politics, Mining and Sustainable Development, and Surveying and Digital Mapping allow students to develop specialist knowledge.

Final Year
The final year provides advanced training through postgraduate-level research and specialist study. Students complete modules such as Year 4 Fieldclass, Research Project, and Research Frontiers in Earth Science, developing independent research abilities and applying advanced engineering geology techniques to complex environmental and infrastructure challenges.

Focus Areas

Engineering Geology, Geotechnics, Ground Engineering, Site Investigation, Geological Mapping, Rock and Soil Mechanics, Infrastructure Development, Geohazards, Hydrogeology, Excavation Design, GIS and Digital Mapping, Environmental Remediation, Sustainable Resource Management, Earth Science Research

Learning Outcomes

Understand geological processes and Earth materials, analyse the engineering properties of rocks and soils, apply geological knowledge to construction and infrastructure projects, conduct site investigations, evaluate ground conditions, use geological mapping and GIS techniques, design solutions for excavation and engineering challenges, assess environmental impacts, develop research and analytical skills, carry out field investigations, communicate technical findings, apply professional geological and engineering principles

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MSci Engineering Geology and Geotechnics is accredited by The Geological Society, providing the academic foundation required for progression towards Chartered Geologist status. The programme is also accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) under licence from the Engineering Council, meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration. These accreditations ensure that the programme aligns with recognised professional standards and supports graduates in developing successful careers within engineering geology and geotechnical industries.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The programme is delivered by the Camborne School of Mines, a department with a long-standing international reputation for education and research in geoscience, mining, and related engineering fields.
The University of Exeter has a strong global reputation in Earth sciences, with its geology and geoscience subjects recognised among leading programmes internationally.
Students gain extensive practical experience through fieldwork, laboratory sessions, industry-focused projects, and research activities, helping them develop skills valued by employers.
Students benefit from studying at the Penryn Campus in Cornwall, where the surrounding geological environment provides excellent opportunities for field-based learning and practical investigation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSci Engineering Geology and Geotechnics at the University of Exeter offers students a highly practical learning experience by combining geological theory with fieldwork, laboratory sessions, engineering projects, and independent research. Students develop the skills needed to investigate ground conditions, analyse rocks and soils, and apply geological knowledge to real-world challenges such as construction, infrastructure development, geotechnical design, and environmental management. Through extensive field training, specialist facilities, and research-led teaching from the Camborne School of Mines, students gain the practical experience required for careers in engineering geology and related industries.

Students gain hands-on experience through field-based learning, specialist facilities, research activities, and industry-focused opportunities:

Take part in extensive fieldwork activities, including geological mapping exercises, field classes across Cornwall, and residential field trips to locations such as Pembrokeshire, Devon, Dorset, and the Isle of Skye. Students also undertake engineering geology field training in locations such as Spain or Cyprus, allowing them to apply their knowledge in different geological environments.
Develop practical laboratory skills through geology and geotechnics laboratory sessions, where students analyse geological materials, investigate rock and soil properties, and apply scientific techniques to understand ground behaviour.
Access specialist facilities within the Camborne School of Mines, including geology laboratories, geological preparation facilities, minerals engineering facilities, surveying equipment, and advanced analytical tools that support geological investigation and research.
Use digital tools and technology such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geological mapping software to analyse spatial data, create geological models, and interpret field information.
Apply engineering geology concepts through modules such as Geotechnics, Surface Excavation Design, GIS for Geologists, and Hydrogeology, developing skills relevant to construction, excavation, groundwater management, and infrastructure projects.
Complete independent research through the Dissertation Project and Research Project, allowing students to explore specialist topics in engineering geology, develop research skills, and work with academic experts.
Develop professional skills through practical assignments involving geological mapping, field reports, technical documentation, data analysis, and interpretation of geological information.
Gain industry awareness through opportunities for an optional industry placement, allowing students to experience professional environments and apply their engineering geology knowledge to workplace challenges.
Benefit from the expertise of the Camborne School of Mines, which provides research-led teaching and strong connections with the geoscience, mining, and engineering industries.
Access research facilities at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus, including the Environment and Sustainability Institute, where research focuses on environmental challenges, sustainability, and solutions related to natural resources.
Learn in Cornwall, a region known for its diverse geology, giving students access to unique landscapes and real geological environments that support practical investigation and field-based learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSci Engineering Geology and Geotechnics at the University of Exeter prepares graduates for careers that address important challenges in infrastructure development, environmental protection, natural resources, and ground engineering. By developing expertise in geology, geotechnics, field investigation, GIS, and research, graduates can pursue roles such as Engineering Geologist, Geotechnical Engineer, Project Engineer, Environmental Consultant, Hydrogeologist, Exploration Geologist, and Engineering Project Manager across industries including construction, energy, mining, environmental consultancy, and civil engineering.

The programme supports students’ career development through professional connections, industry engagement, and dedicated employability support:

The University of Exeter Careers Service provides students with career guidance, employability workshops, employer connections, and support with identifying career opportunities. Students also benefit from the strong alumni and industry network of the Camborne School of Mines Association, which helps connect graduates with professionals working in the sector.
Students have opportunities to engage with industry professionals through events such as Pint and Pasty, where they can network with employers, explore career pathways, and gain insights into opportunities within geology, engineering, and related industries.
Graduates develop highly valued skills in GIS, geological mapping, field investigation, exploration techniques, technical software, scientific programming, quantitative analysis, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which are widely sought after by employers.
The programme’s professional accreditation provides strong long-term career value. The degree is accredited by The Geological Society, supporting progression towards Chartered Geologist status, and by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) under licence from the Engineering Council, meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.
Students benefit from the reputation of the Camborne School of Mines, which has a long history of producing graduates who progress into careers across geoscience, mining, engineering, environmental consulting, and infrastructure industries.
Graduates from related geology and geoscience disciplines at Exeter have progressed into roles such as Civil Work Supervisor, Engineer, Geologist, Graduate Surveyor, Land Surveyor, Exploration Geologist, Geophysicist, Mining Engineer, Geo-Environmental Engineer, and Engineering Geologist.
Engineering graduates from the University of Exeter achieve strong career outcomes, with 96% of Engineering graduates in or due to start employment or further study 15 months after graduation according to HESA Graduate Outcomes data.
The programme prepares students for opportunities with organisations across civil engineering, environmental consultancy, energy, mining, and infrastructure sectors. Previous graduates have gone on to work with organisations including Arup Geotechnics, the National Trust, the Ministry of Defence, and Geomarine Ltd.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MSci Engineering Geology and Geotechnics, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes and research opportunities in areas such as Geotechnical Engineering, Applied Geotechnics, Hydrogeology, Exploration Geology, Mining Engineering, Environmental Geoscience, and Earth Science research. Further study can help graduates specialise in advanced technical areas, progress towards professional chartership, or move into research, consultancy, and leadership positions within the geoscience and engineering sectors.