This two year Diploma programme aims to give a broad based up-to-date appreciation of Geology. It tackles subjects such as the history of the earth and its environment over the past 4.6 billion years, how the earth works and an explanation for the occurrence of earthquakes, volcanoes, the evolution of life and planetary geology.

The course analyses exciting new theories of plate tectonics which aim to unify these and other topics, and presents several case studies. The course is of two years duration, for one evening per week, 7.00-10.00pm. Several one-day field classes are held at times convenient to the students, and there is a weekend field class in April of each year.

The modules for year one and year two of the course are as follows: 

Year 1 Modules:

• GL1800: Introduction to Geology Part 1 (15 credits)
  The solar system and the Earth as a planet; the Earth's interior and plate tectonics; earthquakes; volcanoes; crystal and mineral identification; classification and identification of igneous rocks; Practical work; field work around Cork Harbour area.
• GL1801: Introduction to Geology Part 2 (15 credits)
  Classification and identification of Sedimentary rocks; sedimentary environments; Classification and identification of metamorphic rocks; metamorphic environments; structural geology; mountain building; practical work; fieldtrip 'The Geology of the Limerick area'; fieldtrip 'The Geology of the Dingle Peninsula'.

Year 2 Modules:

• GL2800: Earth and Life (15 credits)
  Modes of fossil preservation; description, recognition and interpretation of fossils; geological map interpretation; field mapping at White Bay, Cork Harbour.
• GL2801: Applied Geology, Resources and Environment (15 credits)
  Weathering of rocks and products; economic geology; the range of geohazards; geophysical investigations of the shallow subsurface; hydrogeology; Environmental Impact and monitoring. Practical work; field class in East Cork.

Students may purchase reference books. A number of fieldtrips are planned.

Assessment combines work completed in practical classes and on fieldtrips with individual research in the form of essays and poster presentations. Theory and practical exams are held at the end of each module.

The course is taught mainly by university lecturers with a combined vast knowledge of the subject. There is also input from professionals associated with geology in industry.