M. Sc. Geology or Master of Science in Geology is a postgraduate degree program. It is a program for two years and is the scientific study of the workings and design of the earth and its layers. The basic eligibility of this course is Bachelor’s degree in science. Admisison is done either on the basis of entrance test depending on the criteria. Average tuition fee for the course ranges between 25 to 50 thousand in most of the colleges offering this course.

This course deals with the detailed study of the various layers of the earth, the tectonic plates and the history of evolution of the surface of the earth. This course develops a student with the necessary skills and practical knowledge which help them understand the different processes related to the earth, like the minerals, sedimentation, the climatic conditions affecting the evolution of life and aspects related to them.

The major career options after this course are in the fields of environment, petroleum, mining and the oil industry. Since this course also offers courses related to engineering, the field of engineering is also open for students with M. Sc. Geology. Average entry level salary after completing this may range between 2 to 4 lakhs per annum.

What is M. Sc. Geology about?

The course is an environmental science course which deals with the study of the surface of the earth, its different layers, its formation and evolution. It is a course for two academic sessions spanned over four semesters.

The course is divided into core courses, elective courses and interdisciplinary courses from other departments. Along with this, students are supposed to submit a dissertation at the end of the two years. The two year course is a vigorous training to the students in the field of geological study which are necessary for the real life situations in the careers pursued later.

What are the skills required for M. Sc. Geology? Who should opt for the course?

The course is ideal for any student who wishes to have an in-depth knowledge about different aspects related to geology. It is best for someone who wants a career in the geological departments in both private sector and the government organizations. This course is about the overall study of the land and its forms since the pre-historic times and to the present focusing on the evolution of the earth over thousands of years.

It is also a study of the fossils and mineral formations along with petroleum and paleontology. It is a master level course which focuses not only on theoretical knowledge but also on the practical knowledge of all the important topics related to geology.

Duration:

The duration for the course is of two years and these two years are divided into four semesters. The course is structured into theory classes, practical knowledge and dissertation.

Academic Options After M.Sc. Geology

After completing master’s degree in geology, candidates who are interested in further studies may opt for research work. There are several universirties in India like Presidency College Chennai, Osmania University Hyderabad, NIT Hamirpur etc.  which offer Ph.D. in geology.

Top Colleges for M.Sc. Geology

The course is offered by many public and private colleges across the country. A few  top of these colleges are:

• St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
• Fergusson College, Pune
• Hansraj College, New Delhi
• Presidency College, Chennai
• Queen Mary’s College, Chennai

Aspirants seeking admission to 2 year Full-time M.Sc Program should meet the following criteria as specified by the institute.

Academic Requirement:

• Candidate should have passed Bachelor's Degree in the relavant field obtained through the (10+2)+3 system or an equivalent qualification from the recognised University or equivalent to it.
• He/She should have obtained a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.

Reservation:

All SC/ST candidates have a relaxation of 5% in the minimum aggregate.