Geology Syllabus & Subjects 2023: Semester-wise List, Top Colleges Syllabus PDF
Akansha BishtContent Writer
Geology is a three-year-long undergraduate-level program for a Bachelor of Science degree. After qualifying from class 12 in the science stream, one can seek this course. Geology is the study of the earth. The geology discipline typically encompasses the analysis of solid and liquid structures on the planet, their physical and chemical properties, and the minerals. The degree offers you a clear understanding of the history of the earth and all the natural processes within it. The formation of soil, land, mountains, rivers and natural phenomena such as landslides, earthquakes, climate, and volcanic eruptions are all a part of Geology. Aspirants choose to read this course as it offers them an abundance of opportunities to work as a Geologist in India.
As a geologist, one can work in several fields. Geologists can work in Mineralogy to study, research and extract minerals. Geologists can also work in the sector of geological mapping, Economic Geology, petrology, and petroleum geology. As a Geologist, you can work in all these fields to extract and provide precious information for the earth's inhabitants.
- Scope in India
- Syllabus-Important facts for Geology
- 2.1 Geology syllabus in NITs
- 2.2 Geology Syllabus in IITs
- 2.3 General examination pattern
- List of Subjects in Geology
- 3.1 Usual core subjects in Geology
- 3.2 Typical Elective Subjects for BSc Geology
- Detailed Syllabus for BSc Geology
- Specialisations offered in BSc Geology
- Books and Authors Related to BSc Geology
- Entrance Exams For BSc Geology
- Syllabus For Distance Program In BSc Geology
- Top Colleges For BSc Geology
- Frequently Asked Questions
Scope in India
After pursuing geology, a geologist can work in several consulting and engineering companies. One can also work with mining corporations, government bodies, groundwater boards, petroleum companies, etc. You can also prepare for the civil services exam with geology as a subject, as it is one of the mark-fetching subjects. Besides, there are more than 25 mining corporations and 18+ public sector refineries in India. These organisations create immense job opportunities for several geologists every year.
Syllabus-Important facts for Geology
A BSc in Geology is a six-semester course that emphasises earth science. Throughout these six semesters, you will read about the Earth system, Crystallography, Mineralogy, Geomorphology, sedimentology, Geomorphology, etc. You will study and analyse the geologic data along with solid earth. By pursuing this course, the students will better understand the evolution of the planet earth and the natural segmentation of all-natural resources.
Geology syllabus in NITs
The national institute of technology is one of India's most preferred and reputed universities. Several aspirants aspire to read Applied Geology at NIT. The program objectives of B.Tech in Applied Geology are:
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To generate well-professional manpower for extracting and exploring mineral energy.
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Improving the understanding of the surficial and internal dynamic of the planet earth.
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Doing deep research to understand and forecast the weather & climate.
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Training individuals to face any sort of environmental hazards
Geology Syllabus in IITs
The Indian Institute of technology is another reputed university in India. Geology in IITs is a four-semester course. Some of the core courses offered by IITs in Geology are:
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Hydrocarbon exploration
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Basin analysis
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Advanced techniques in Mineral exploration
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Groundwater exploring and management
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Remote sensing and GIS, and many more
General examination pattern
All the students read geology as a BSc or BTech course get evaluated based on their lab scores, assignments, semester, and projects.
List of Subjects in Geology
Check below the subjects of Geology courses
Usual core subjects in Geology
Subject title |
Subject details |
Earth Science system |
There are a total of 7 units in this paper. In this paper, you will clearly understand several dynamic parts of the earth as a solid body. You will gain knowledge with a core understanding of the magnetic field, space, meteors, Asteroids, plate tectonics, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and many more. Some parts of the syllabus are: · Soil · Hydrosphere, atmosphere · Plate tectonics · Understanding the stratigraphic history records · Cosmic abundance · The magnetic field of the earth · Earth as a planet |
Mineral Science |
Students learn the basic principles of crystallography and crystal symmetry, and projection through this subject. The primary focus of this program is on identifying the minerals that form rocks. You will also learn about the CCP and HCP structures of rock. After reading this paper, You can establish the ideas about the formation of rocks and minerals on the earth. This helps you compute and understand the earth's natural resources and distribution. You can also get a summary of the industrial petroleum extraction processes. Some parts of the syllabus are: · Crystallography · Crystal symmetry and projection · Rock-forming minerals and everything about them · Properties of light and optical microscopy |
Elements of Geography |
The paper helps you in knowing about concepts of geochemistry. You will get introduced to the periodic table again, and you will also study chemical bonding. This paper will help you acknowledge several states of matter and every natural reservoir present on the earth. In geochemistry, you will learn about the different layers and structures of the earth. Accordingly, you will be able to accomplish the chemical elements present on earth. Understanding element transport and geochemistry of solid earth is also a part of the paper. Some parts of the syllabus are: · Concepts of geochemistry · The layered structure of the earth · Element transport · Geochemistry of the solid earth |
Structural Geology |
Structural Geology is a subject that helps you know about many processes and structures and topography. It helps you acknowledge the stress and the strains in all types of rocks found on the earth. Besides that, you will also know about different folds that create mountains, bucking, and bending. The aspirants will also read about the earth's structure's fractures, faults, and foliations. Some parts of the syllabus are: · Folds · Lineation and foliations · Structure of topography · Stress and strain in rocks · Fracture and fault |
Igneous Petrology |
This paper lets you know about the concept of igneous petrology. You will learn about the flow of heat, geothermal gradients, and the classification of igneous rocks. You will be creating a phase diagram that includes binary and ternary phases. The most interesting topic to learn here is the magma formation in the crust and mantle. You will also learn about Magmatism and several tectonic settings. Some parts of the syllabus include: · Concepts of igneous petrology · Forms · Phase diagrams and petrogenesis · Magmatism and in several tectonic settings · Petrogenesis of igneous rocks |
Typical Elective Subjects for BSc Geology
Subject title |
Subject details |
Natural disaster |
This is a subject where you will understand several types of natural disasters identified on the earth. The subject will help you understand every natural disaster in detail and find out the reason or natural movements that cause those disasters. |
GeoChemistry |
Geochemistry is another elective subject that teaches you about the chemical composition of the earth's several structures, rocks, and minerals. As mentioned earlier, you will get introduced to the periodic table and learn about its chemical composition. You will find out about the minerals that form rocks as well. |
Plate Tectonics |
Plate tectonics is a subject that introduces you to the concept of the plates moving underneath the surface of the earth. You will learn more about sea-floor spreading and the continental drift in the earth. |
Detailed Syllabus for BSc Geology
The syllabus of BSc Geology may differ from one academia to another, but the subjects are always the same in every institution. Here is an overall summary of the core or elective subjects you will read from the first to eighth semesters in B.Sc. Geology.
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject title |
Subject Details |
1 & 2 |
Earth System Science
Mineral Science
Elements Of Geochemistry
Structural Geology |
Geology I and II |
Students learn to identify the earth and its system. One can study their structure, mineral, structure, and elements of chemistry. They also learn multiple things such as about rock formation, asteroids and meteoroids, different minerals, etc., and their effects. With the basic knowledge gained from this subject, Geology and understanding of the earth become easier. Then, students can carry out several extractions and research processes. |
3 |
Igneous Petrology
Sedimentary Petrology
Palaeontology |
Geology 3 |
The subject aims to provide the basic knowledge of igneous petrol and minerals that are found on the earth's surface. The sedimentary petrology helps the reader learn about the petrol extracted from sedimentary rocks and minerals. This subject teaches you the complete process of extraction of petrol. |
4 |
Metamorphic Petrology
Stratigraphic Principles And Indian Stratigraphy Hydrogeology |
Geology 4 |
Students will learn about metamorphism and its control and type. You will also read about the metamorphic facies and their grades. The students will also draw differences between tectonics and metamorphism. Apart from that, one can also have a brief understanding of the principles and codes of stratigraphy. In hydrogeology, you will read about the hydrologic cycle, precipitation, and weather and climate forecasting. |
5 |
Economic Geology
Geomorphology |
Geology 5 |
Students will learn the ores and gangues of the earth's body. The subject teaches you the tenor, grades, and lodes on the earth's surface as well. In the subsequent unit, you will learn about Mineral deposits and their exploration techniques. In geomorphology, one can know about the endogenic and exogenic processes. You will learn about the global hypo symmetry and the surficial processes. You also learn about the endogenic and exogenic interactions and their overview. You understand and identify the ocean basins, landforms, and how those landforms get formed on a large scale. The tectonic drainage is another exciting part of the syllabus that makes you aware of the sea bed expansion, sea-level changes, and many more. |
6 |
Engineering Geology
Remote Sensing And GIS |
Geology 6 |
In this subject, one can be well aware of the role of engineering geologists in planning, executing, and creating a prominent man-made colossal structure. You will also learn about the site investigation and the suitability of a site for any construction; Engineering geology also teaches you about the characterisation of several sites. Readers can also learn and identify the rock mass and its quality. In remote sensing and GIS, you will learn about photogeology. That implies; that you will discover the aerial photographs and validate them as per your learnings. Remote sensing also teaches you about the concepts of scanners and sensors used in satellites. In data image processing, you will have to find out the image errors and then rectify them. GIS explores the coordinate and projection system. Here you will learn about the integration of GPS with GIS. |
Specialisations offered in BSc Geology
The Bachelor's degree in Geology course comprises the study of solid Earth. This course provides evidence on life history, evolution, changes, climatic conditions, geographical changes, and other factors of Earth. This course covers essential fundamentals of Structural Geology, Physical Geology and Geomorphology, Mineralogy, Crystallography, Engineering Geology, and others. Besides these subjects, there are other specialisations in BSc Geology. Its specialisation covers the significant areas of earth material science, the influence of physics on Earth, research on changes on Earth, and many more industrial operations.
Specialisation |
Subjects |
Details |
Geophysics |
· Gravity and Magnetic Methods
|
Students interested in knowing the physics of Earth can choose this specialisation. This course gives detailed knowledge of physical factors related to Earth and its evolution. The interior physical property of the Earth is covered in this specialisation. |
Oceanography |
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Specialisation in Oceanography covers all the physical properties and changes occurring inside the ocean. The ocean's habitat, climatic properties, and ecosystem are discussed. Students interested in deep research and study of the ocean should go for this specialisation. |
Palaeontology |
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The specialisation is deep research based on the scientific study of ancient life on Earth. This also includes the study of fossils. Students who are keen to know about the ancient extant organisms and interested in research on fossils and the interactions with their environments should opt for this specialisation. |
Books and Authors Related to BSc Geology
BSc Geology is a vast course with various specialised subjects. To know each subject with clear ideas on fundamentals and necessary knowledge, a student must follow multiple references. Referring to different books by different authors will give a widespread knowledge of the course. This will help the students achieve good remarks and further will be helpful in their higher education.
Subject |
Book title |
Author |
Description |
Earth System Science |
Earth System Science: From Biogeochemical Cycles to Global Changes |
Gordon Orians, Henning Rodhe, and Robert Jay Charlson |
This book covers the complete study of cycles and the Earth's climatic changes. It gives a clear aspect of anthropogenic global change like chemically forced global climate change. |
Mineral Science |
An Introduction to Mineral Sciences |
A. Putnis |
This study material covers the basic principle of mineralogy and the systematic treatment of mineral groups. It covers the study of the behaviour of minerals in geological processes. |
Elements Of Geochemistry |
Introduction to Geochemistry: Principles and Applications |
Kula C. Misra |
This book covers the introductory portion of geochemistry for undergraduate students. This study material covers elementary knowledge in chemistry, earth sciences, and mathematics. |
STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY |
Fundamentals of Structural Geology |
David D. Pollard and Raymond C. Fletcher |
This book covers the fundamentals of Structural Geology. It is a complete framework based on the investigation of geological structures. It includes the integration of field mapping and mechanical analysis. |
IGNEOUS PETROLOGY |
Essentials of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology |
B. Ronald Frost, Carol D. Frost |
The geology students have to understand the life history, origins, environments, and basic processes and formation of produce igneous and metamorphic rocks. This book can give you comprehensive knowledge of the principles of igneous petrology. |
Entrance Exams For BSc Geology
Students must prepare for national-level or university-level entrance exams to get placed in reputed colleges offering BSc Geology. Some universities and colleges conduct their entrance exams to fill their seats with merited students. The minimum eligibility to apply for the entrance exam is that the student should obtain a good score in the 10+2 examination. Some colleges prefer to customise their eligibility with a standard percentage to apply for the entrance test. Here is the complete list of entrance exams conducted at the national level or by universities and colleges.
· BHU UET
· PUBDET
· APU UG NET
· UPSEE
· TS EAMCET
· GSAT
· NEST
· IISER IAT
· CG PAT
· OUAT
For preparing for entrance exams, the students must have a fundamental knowledge of each subject and topics covered in their class 12th. Students should make a scheduled timetable to study the main subjects of class 12th, such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics. To cross the eligible score for the entrance, they should prepare each topic in detail. The students have to identify their weak areas and work on them. Practising previous year's question papers, provided sample papers, and other study materials will help you to secure a good percentage. Revising the topics is very important; even if you get a clear idea, don't forget to revise on a daily basis.
The IISER IAT and NEST are national-level entrance exams. The difficulty level is higher in these national entrance tests. It covers all the essential topics of physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology. Other entrance exams, such as GSAT, OUAT, APU UG NET, etc., are state-level or university-level entrance exams that cover basic fundamentals of the subject of class 12th. Succeeding in these entrance exams will help the students to get placed in reputed colleges and universities. Further, it will help them to build a good professional career.
Syllabus For Distance Program In BSc Geology
Distance learning for BSc Geology is a better option for students who cannot afford a full-time bachelor's degree. It is also good for students who do not match the eligibility criteria of colleges for a full-time degree. It is convenient to complete a bachelor's degree for students opting for part-time degree programs. The syllabus of distance BSc Geology is almost similar to the regular or full-time course. The exam and mark evaluation is also similar to the university pattern. The study pattern, course curriculum, and subjects are similar to the regular degree course.
The top colleges offering BSc Geology distance education are:
· Kalinga University
· Jammu And Kashmir Distance University
· Jaipur National University
· Bharathiar University
· NIMS University
· MKU University
· Subharti University
Top Colleges For BSc Geology
SI. No. |
College/University/Institution |
Syllabus(PDFs) |
---|---|---|
1 |
Presidency College Chennai |
To be uploaded soon |
2 |
Fergusson College, Pune |
To be uploaded soon |
3 |
RV University, Bangalore |
To be uploaded soon |
4 |
St Xavier's College, Mumbai |
To be uploaded soon |
5 |
Parul University, Vadodara |
|
6 |
Delhi University |
To be uploaded soon |
7 |
Banaras Hindu University |
To be uploaded soon |
8 |
Dr. M.G.R. Educational And Research Institute Chennai |
To be uploaded soon |
9 |
Kakatiya University, Warangal |
To be uploaded soon |
10 |
Shivaji University, Kolhapur |
To be uploaded soon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the major disciplines of BSc Geology?
Q. Is BSc Geology a good course?
Q. What are the subjects of BSc Geology?
· Structural Geology
· Physical geology and Geomorphology
· Mineralogy
· Crystallography and Mineral Optics
· Stratigraphy
· Palaeontology
· Petrology
· Exploration Geology and Remote Sensing
· Economic Geology
· Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology
· Engineering Geology and Mining Geology
Q. What is the duration of completing a BSc in Geology?
Q. What are the top colleges to study BSc Geology?
· Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda
· A.P. Residential Degree College
· Pravabati College
· Indira Gandhi National Open University
· Fergusson College
· Shri Guru Ram Rai University
· Parul University
Q. What are books to refer to for BSc Geology?
· Igneous Petrology – J.D. Winter
· Structural Geology – SK Ghosh
· Essentials of Geology – Fredrick K. Lutgens
· Foundations of Earth Science – Fredrick K. Lutgens
· Sedimentary Petrology – S.M. Sengupta
· Geology of Petroleum – Arville Irving Levorsen
· Exploring Geology – Reynolds
· Elements of Geology – S.M. Mathur
· Geochemistry – Mason, and Moore
Q. What is the eligibility for applying for admission in BSc Geology?
Q. What is the fees structure of the BSc Geology Course?
Q. Which specialisations are in demand in BSc Geology?
Q. What are the national-level entrance exams for BSc Geology?
Q. What are the compulsory subjects to get eligibility for BSc Geology?
Q. What is the general cutoff percentage to get admission to DU for BSc Geology?
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered 3 weeks ago
Eligibility for PGT Exams with an M.A. in Geology
To know whether you would be able to apply for the Post Graduate Teacher applications or exams of any of the following like DSSSB, KVS, or NVS, it is important to note the requirements of each one separately as any of the PGT openings usually would r
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
The syllabus of Geology subject for first semester exams is:
Fundamentals of Geology:
- Origin of the Earth
- Earth's Layers and Structure
- Plate Tectonics
- Types of Rocks: Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic
- Rock Cycle
Mineralogy:
- Properties of Minerals
- Classification of Minerals
- Identification of Common Mineral
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
The basic difference between both is that Geoinformatics is a broad field that merges Geography or Geology with Informatics. In contrast, Geology is a discipline that studies the Earth's structure, materials, and history. Their subjects, course curriculum, and career scope also differ.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
Here are some tips that'll help you prepare better for the GD-PI round for MSc Geology admission:
- Improve your communication skills.
- Research and gather information about current affairs.
- Mock GDs are also a great way to prepare for GD rounds.
- Be thorough with your education, especially the stuff in you
L
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
No, there are no age criteria to opt for an MSc in Geology programme in India. Some universities may need some relevant work experience in the Geological field. However, you'll need to fulfil other eligibility requirements such as a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised univer
R
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
Here are some common documents you should keep handy during the MSc Geology admission process:
Bachelor's degree | Migration Certificate |
Valid ID Proof | Passport-sized photographs |
Entrance Exam Results | - |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
N
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
Here are some of the best reference books for MSc Geology students:
- Mineralogy by Perkins.
- Mine and Mineral Economics by Subhash C Ray and Indra N Sinha.
- Stable Isotope Geochemistry by Hoefs J.
- Petroleum Geochemistry by D Satyanarayana.
- Economic Geology: Economic Mineral Deposits by U Prasad.
- Groundwater
R
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
Here are some top MSc Geology college options for great placement opportunities in India:
MSc Geology Colleges | Average Package Offered |
---|---|
INR 12.5 – 21.28 LPA | |
INR 19.8 LPA | |
INR 17.92 LPA | |
INR 16 LPA | |
INR 14.86 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
S
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
No, the MSc Geology course in IGNOU is not available. However, you can apply to other top government colleges such as Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Jadavpur University, Aligarh Muslim University, Calcutta University, Kerala University, etc.
S
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
Here are some tips that'll help you prepare efficiently for MSc Geology entrance exams:
- The exam pattern must be entirely familiar to you. Find out how many sections there are and how many questions there are in total.
- It's also crucial to fully understand the syllabus. The syllabus is available for d
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
Here are some benefits of pursuing an MSc in Geology:
- Students who complete this course are prepared for careers in business, law, education, and other fields.
- You gain a realistic understanding of time (i.e., geological time) about all other aspects of Science as well as a good understanding and appr
M
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
MSc Geology is a 2-year long PG degree course divided into 4 semesters. Exploring the history, resources, and processes of the earth is included in an MSc in Geology. You can acquire advanced knowledge and practical experience for a career in environmental management, industry, or research. This pro
G
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 2 months ago
The BSc in Geology curriculum spans three years and six semesters. The programme accrues 147 credits, ensuring a well-rounded education in Geology. The subjects covered in the first semester of the BSc in Geology at UPES School of Advanced Engineering are mentioned below:
- Earth System Science
- Mineral
B
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
BSc Geology course is pursued by a lot of students these days. Given below are some reasons why you can think of pursuing this course:
- Various Job Opportunities: After completion of BSc Geology course, a plethora of job opportunities are available for candidates. Job Opportunities are available in va
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The salary of Geology graduates can vary depending on the specialisations and the job profile. Geology provides various career opportunities to the students. While salaries may vary based on years of experience, job profile and several other factors, the average annual salaries of some of the popula
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Here are some top Geology college options in India offering great placement opportunities to students:
Geology Colleges | Average Package Offered |
---|---|
Government Arts and Science College, Kovilpatti | INR 26.6 LPA |
Kolhan University | INR 19.8 LPA |
Delhi University | INR 15.5 LPA |
IIT Bombay | INR 15 LPA |
Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University | INR 14.86 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
- BSc GeologyThere is no upper age limit for distance education programs. For admission to a BSc Geology program, you typically need to have passed 12th grade in the Science stream with a minimum agg
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
To improve data analysis and predictive modelling, emerging developments in geology are concentrated on integrating cutting edge technologies such as Al, GIS, and remote sensing. Environmental geology is another area of the discipline that is expanding and addressing problems like pollution, reducin
A
Contributor-Level 10
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I have done Masters in Geology. Am I eligible for PGT exams?