Geochemistry (Taught)

Geochemistry is critical to quantifying the mechanisms, rates and sources behind every aspect of the Earth system. The MSc in Geochemistry provides you with specialist knowledge and skills in modern geochemical methods, transferrable to a wide variety of geoscience and environmental science careers, including further PhD research. The course involves hands-on laboratory and field sampling training, and experience with state-of-the-art equipment.

Compulsory modules:

1. Advanced Geochemistry
2. Geochemistry
3. Geochemistry Field Excursion
4. Isotope Geochemistry: Theory, Techniques, and Applications
5. Physical Chemistry Laboratory
6. Special Topics in Geochemistry
7. Statistics and Analytical Sciences

Students choose up to three optional modules. Here is a sample of optional modules that may be offered.

1. Advanced Petrogenesis
2. Advanced Physical Inorganic Chemistry
3. Biogeochemistry
4. Blockbuster Solids
5. Core to Crust Ore Genesis – High Temperature
6. Core to Crust Ore Genesis - Low Temperature
7. Energy conversion and storage
8. Environmental Pollution
9. Homogeneous Catalysis
10. Processing of Materials
11. The Chemistry of the Solar System

Research Project:
The third semester of the MSc course focuses on independent laboratory-based (or field and laboratory-based) research conducted with an academic supervisor. The topic is defined by the student and can be chosen from research foci within the School, or with an external industrial or academic partner.

The research project will involve:

• background literature review
• project formulation
• proposal writing and analytical design
• data integration and interpretation.

Students present the results of their project as an oral presentation, at a poster conference and in a dissertation. The completed dissertation of not more than 15,000 words must be submitted by a date towards the end of August.

If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the second semester of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MSc.

The assessment for the taught modules is based on coursework and written examinations.