Geology - master

Programme description

The study consists of a Master's Thesis (60 ECTS) and mandatory and optional subjects (60 ECTS). The number of optional subjects varies between the areas of study concentration. One has the option to follow subjects at the University Centre of Svalbard (UNIS) or abroad.

There are four lines of study:

• Petrology/Structural Geology
• Marine Geology and Geophysics
• Sedimentology and Quaternary Geology
• Petroleum Geoscience

The research undertaken in geology at UiT Arctic University of Norway focuses mainly on fieldwork in Northern Norway, in climate and marine geology with research cruises in the polar areas. We have unique geology right on our doorstep, which offers a special understanding of the processes that continue to shape the earth. Close cooperation with the oil industry ensures relevant Master's projects for the market are produced.

Learning outcomes

In addition to a solid competence in a specialized field of geology, students will have acquired the following after completing the Master of Science in Geology:

Knowledge

• Advanced knowledge within one of the specializations; marine geology and geophysics, structural geology, sedimentology and Quaternary geology, petroleum geoscience
• Knowledge within scientific theory and methods
• The ability to apply knowledge in new technological or scientific areas

Skills

• Analyze geological problems within the methods and results from the international research
• Use existing theories, methods and interpretations and work individually with applied and theoretical problem solving
• Use relevant methods for research and professional development individually
• Analyze and withhold a critical approach to different sources of information and use these for professional argumentation
• Complete an individual, defined research project under guidance and in accordance with current ethical standards

General competence

• Analyze relevant problems within geology
• Apply his or her knowledge and skills in new areas for completing advanced tasks and projects
• Communicate comprehensive individual work and master the discipline¿s expressions
• Communicate problems, analyses and conclusions within the discipline, both with specialists and with the public
• Contribute to innovation within geology

Admission requirements

Admission to the Master's programme in Geology requires a Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS) in Geology or equivalent qualification. More information on admission requirements:

• General admission requirements - Master

Applicants from Norway or Nordic countries:

• The application deadline for Norwegian and other Nordic applicants is April 15th for admission to the autumn semester

Applicants from outside the Nordic countries:

• The application deadline for self-financing and quota scheme applicants is December 1st for admission to the autumn semester.
• Online application, study code 2026.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching methods consist of lectures in classrooms, laboratory work in modern lab facilities, fieldwork and cruises to interesting areas, mainly in Northern Norway.

Examinations will be given as written exams, oral exams and reports, depending on the individual course description.

Language of instruction

The language of instruction is English and all syllabus material is in English. Examination questions will be given in English, but may be answered in either English or a Scandinavian language.

The Master's Thesis may written in either English or a Scandinavian language.

Exchange possibilities

Students have the oppertunity to take courses at institutions abroad or at The University Centre in Svalbard.

For other exchange possibilities abroad, see the university's A-Z pages for student exchange.

Job prospectives

A master's degree in geology leads to exciting and well paid jobs in the oil industry, mineral recovery, science or engineering. The Department of Geology in Tromsø cooperates with Statoil and other industrial partners in the fields of research and education.

Access to further studies

Successful completion of a master's degree in geology qualifies a candidatey for admission to PhD studies, depending on satisfactory marks in the master's and bachelor's degree.

PhD studies in geology are offered at UiT Arctic University of Norway.

Study plan

Study plan master in geology jan 2015