ESC-30138 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

Level 6 BSc Geology students must choose to study EITHER ESC-30138, Advanced Geological Field Techniques, OR ESC-30033 Volcanic and Magmatic Processes

Description for 2025/26

This module is primarily based on an 8-day field course that will allow you to study igneous and metamorphic rocks in the field. In addition, consideration of petrological processes and emphasis on aspects of structural geology will provide you with an understanding of magma emplacement, orogen construction and terrane accretion in the context of the crustal evolution of a major geological terrain in the UK.
You will further develop geological fieldwork skills and employability skills that are essential for a career as a professional geoscientist.

The module aims to provide students with the opportunity to study igneous and metamorphic rocks in the field. Consideration of petrological processes and an emphasis on aspects of structural geology will provide students with an understanding of magma emplacement (and its effects at different crustal levels), orogen construction and terrane accretion in the context of the crustal evolution of a specific tectonic regime within the UK.

Intended Learning Outcomes

systematically describe, evaluate and interpret key igneous, metamorphic, structural and geodynamic processes through study of academic journal literature and field investigations in the context of a classic geological study area.: 1,2
deploy subject-specific skills and established techniques to interpret petrological, geochemical and structural data, and apply and critically evaluate these to understand the processes involved in crustal orogenesis and its effects;: 1,2
demonstrate skills to a high level in all aspects of field observation, in collection, recording, analysis and interpretation of field data, and in communication of information, ideas and arguments in a clear and coherent form;: 2
apply proficiently modern field methods in petrology and structural geology, and demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of these methods, based on knowledge that is at or informed by the forefront of the discipline.: 2

Study hours

9 hours practical classes/workshops
70 hours participation in 8-day residential field course, including completion of portfolio of practical-based individual tasks submitted during the field course.
71 hours directed and private study, including preparation periods for oral presentation and guided background reading on field area.

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment