| Code | CKS82 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 Months Full-time; 24 Months Part-time |
| Teaching Mode | Full-time, Part-Time |
| Qualifications | MRes |
| NFQ Level | Level 9 |
| Fees | See Fees and Costs for full details. |
| Start Date | October or January |
Course Outline
Our Master of Research (MRes) degree in Geological Sciences is for highly motivated, enthusiastic students with a research interest in Geological Sciences. This MRes allows you to pursue research study in an area of your choosing under the direction of internationally recognised research in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences at University College Cork.
The MRes in Geological Sciences is a full-time course running over 12 months (24 months part-time) from the date of first registration. Applications will be accepted for a start date in October or January. The programme consists of (a) a major research thesis and (b) taught modules on generic and transferable skills, with an emphasis on scientific writing, oral presentations, and general research skills.
The subject of your research project can be drawn from the range of expertise of staff in the Geology discipline in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences including palaeontology, palaeobiology, palaeobotany, micropalaeontology, sedimentology, palaeo-environmental analysis, marine geology, geomatics, marine geosciences, structural geology, contaminant hydrogeology and igneous processes.
Our students undertake a total workload equivalent to 90 credits over the 12-month programme, the principal element of which is the completion of a major research thesis of approximately 10,000 words. In parallel, students must choose and pass taught modules to the value of 20 credits.
Modules (20 credits)
- GL6020 Hydrogeology, Contaminated Land and Assessment (10 credits)
- GL6021 Engineering Geology (10 credits)
- GL6022 Environmental Planning and Regulation (5 credits)
- GL6023 Offshore Environmental Geology (5 credits)
- GL6024 Applied Geophysics (5 credits)
- GL6025 Geoinformatics for Environmental Geology (5 credits)
- GL6028 Applied Hydrogeology Skills (5 credits)
- GL6029 Applied Geotechnical Skills (5 credits)
- GL4004 Advanced Igneous Processes (5 credits)
- GL4011 Economic Geology (5 credits)
- GL4024 Advanced Palaeobiology (5 credits)
- PG6001 STEPS - Scientific Training for Enhanced Postgraduate Studies (5 credits)
- PG6009 Graduate Information Literacy Skills (5 credits)
- PG6014 Scientific Outreach and Communication (5 credits)
- PG6015 An Introduction to Research Integrity, Ethics and Open Science (5 credits)
- PG6029 Skills in Public Engagement of Science (5 credits)
See also the Academic Programme Catalogue entry for this MRes for more information.
Course Practicalities
Prospective applicants are advised to contact the Programme Coordinator Professor Andy Wheeler in advance of application via www.ucc.ie/apply to discuss possible project areas.
Students should consult the Fees office page for information on EU and non-EU College and bench fees for Geological Sciences - MRes.
Why Choose This Course
Research in Geology at the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences is directed by Principal Investigator’s (PIs) covering the breadth of the geological sciences. We have access to pre-existing data sets, samples, and field study sites.
Data analysis can be undertaken using state-of-the-art microanalysis facilities in the Mary Ward Lab including SEM/electron microbeam, RAMAN, and FT-IR microscopy. We have field monitoring equipment and access to geophysical data processing suites. Facilities are also available through the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences iCRAG.
The School prides itself on its high-quality publication record, high level of innovation, and public outreach.
Connected Curriculum
Our learning approach reflects our commitment to the Connected Curriculum where we emphasise the connection between students, learning, research and leadership through our vision for a Connected University. Our staff are at the forefront of this integrative approach to learning and will support you in making meaningful connections within and between disciplines such as biology, bioscience, chemistry, medicine, biotechniques, and statistics.
Skills and Careers Information
The MRes in Geological Sciences is designed to give our students a research-intensive experience but at a degree level lower than a PhD. Taught modules are focused on generic and transferable research skills, rather than discipline-specific knowledge. There is an emphasis on data analysis, interpretation, problem-solving, and time- and project management. You will also develop skills in presenting and writing science, posing a research question, and developing a research proposal. Students completing this MRes programme will be competitive to secure funding, obtain a PhD position, or enter directly into employment within the geosciences sectors.
Our students also have the opportunity to collaborate with selected research groups within the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences iCRAG. Ultimately the MRes programme at UCC is designed to give you the best start for your scientific research career.
Requirements
Applicants must have a Second Class Honours (minimum Grade 2.1) in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in the following relevant subject areas: Geology, Geoscience or Earth Science.
You must be approved by the MRes coordinator and programme team, including the Head of Geology in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences.
The number of places is limited and decisions on entry to the programme will be made based on the applicant’s performance in their primary degree and interview according to the following criteria: academic qualifications, research experience and focus, scientific understanding, personal statement and strong recommendations from two academic referees.
English language requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements. See our Postgraduate English Language Entry Requirements page for more information.
For applicants with qualifications completed outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. See our Qualification Comparison by Country page for more information.
International/non-EU applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure, visit our international research student page.
For more information contact the International Office.
Fees and Costs
See our PG EU and International Fee Schedule page for tuition fees.
Available Scholarships
We support our postgraduate community by offering a limited number of scholarships and bursaries to prospective and current students. Please see the Science, Engineering and Food Sciences scholarships page for more information.
How To Apply
See our How to Apply page for more information.