University Of Cape Town Geology

Studying Geology at UCT

Why study Geology?

Geoscientists explore and uncover new territories in their pursuit of answers to some of society’s most difficult problems.

• Predicting the behavior of Earth systems and the universe
• Finding adequate supplies of natural resources, such as groundwater, petroleum, and metals
• Conserving soils and maintaining agricultural productivity
• Developing natural resources in ways that safeguard the environment
• Maintaining the quality of water supplies
•  Reducing human suffering and property loss from natural hazards, such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, floods, landslides, hurricanes, and tsunamis
• Determining geological controls on natural environments and habitats and predicting the impact of human activities on them
• Defining the balance between society’s demand for natural resources and the need to sustain healthy ecosystems
•  Understanding global climate patterns

Geological Sciences

In addition to geochemistry, mantle petrology, igneous and metamorphic petrology, Precambrian studies, marine geoscience, petroleum geophysics, environmental geochemistry, and structural and economic geology are just a few of the many sub-disciplines of geology that the Department of Geological Sciences has a long history of studying and teaching. In order to assist its research efforts, the department has access to a comprehensive range of analytical capabilities that enable high-precision investigation of elemental and isotope abundances in geological materials.

The department is well situated to provide top-notch training in the geological sciences at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels due to South Africa’s abundant natural resources and internationally renowned geological occurrences. If you enjoy science, care about the environment, are fascinated by nature, and enjoy working outside, consider studying geology. Our alumni are in high demand around the world.

Geological Science Degrees

Degree Programs in Geology

Geology gives both men and women who are interested in learning about and using the resources of the Earth a professional scientific career. It is a profession that produces wealth and is crucial to the economy of developed countries. Geology is a multifaceted discipline that provides a wide range of career options, working conditions, and possibilities to travel to strange locations. A thorough undergraduate curriculum in the geological sciences, including an honors program, is offered by the department. The Department provides a Ph.D. program and a Master of Science in Geology at the postgraduate level.

Three years of geology and related field courses are required for our BSc degree. Our majors frequently double-major in geography, chemistry, or oceanography (EGS). During the second and third years, the major includes a field course that meets on weekends and during breaks. Admission to the BSc program needs acceptable math and science proficiency in high school. For the most recent prerequisites, consult the UCT Handbook.

Typically, the department has 10 to 20 full-time postgraduate students working on Masters and PhD studies. All of these degrees need a thesis. Our postgraduate students are assisted through NRF bursaries, business partners, undergraduate course demonstrations, and work as research assistants. Visit our academic staff profiles and get in touch with possible supervisors in your area of interest if you’re interested in postgraduate studies in the department.

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