Degree Programs in Geology

Geology offers a professional scientific career for men and women who are interested in discovering and developing the Earth's resources.  It is a wealth-generating occupation essential to the economies of modern nations.  Geology is a multi- faceted science, offering a wide variety of employment opportunities, working environments and the chance to visit unusual places.  The Department of Geological Sciences offers a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum in the Geological Sciences including an honours program.  At the postgraduate level the Department offers a Master of Science in Geology (by thesis) and PhD program.

For current details about application to UCT for the Bachelors degree program in the science faculty, see the Science Faculty Handbooks for more detailed information.

BSc and BSc Honours

Our BSc degree includes three years of coursework in geology as well as companion fields.  It is common for our majors to double-major in Oceanography, Chemistry or Geography (EGS).  The major includes a field course which runs during vacations and weekends during the 2nd and 3rd year.  Admittance to the BSc program requires adequate preparation in matric for maths and physical science.  See the UCT Handbook for the most up-to-date requirements.

We typically accept 16-19 students to the Honours year, a combination of our own BSc graduates and students with qualifying backgrounds from other universities.  The Honours degree can be taken on one of three tracks: General Geology, Geochemistry, or Petroleum Geology.  The Honours year incorporates rigorous modules and a research thesis which accounts for 25% of the year.  See our Postgraduates page for MSc and PhD degree information along with current student projects.

MSc and PhD

The department normally has between 10 and 20 full time postgraduate students in Masters and PhD projects.  These degrees are entirely by thesis.  Our postgraduates are supported by NRF bursaries, industry partners, and by demonstrating for undergraduate courses and working as research assistants.  If you are interested in postgraduate studies in the department, visit our academic staff pages and contact potential supervisors in your area of interest.

Course Offerings

Information on any of the courses offered in the Department of Geological Sciences can be obtained from the Departmental Secretary:

Department of Geological Sciences
University of Cape Town
Private Bag X3
Rondebosch 7701
South Africa
Tel: +27 21 650-2931
Fax: +27 21 650-3783
Email: sci_geology@uct.ac.za