GEOLOGY AND PETROLEUM GEOLOGY

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Practical sessions will be available each week; individual students attend once a fortnight.

Overview

For 4,500 million years the Earth has been, and still is, a continually evolving Dynamic Planet. The record is held in the rocks and fossils of the present continental landmasses and ocean basins. To deduce the history of the planet geologists must apply a large range of scientific principles and disciplines. These disciplines encompass the biological,chemical and physical sciences. The course provides a basic understanding of how the structure and evolution of the planet are deduced and how this information can be used to discover and extract natural resources such as fossil fuels and ores.

Structure

20 one-hour lectures 5 three- hour practical sessions.

It is intended to include a half-day field course, depending on prevailing weather conditions. Other classes will be reduced pro-rata if fieldwork is possible.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (50%); 90 minute examination (50%). In-course assessment will include class tests in mapping and palaeontology.

Resit: 1 two-hour examination including map and palaeontology practical questions (100%).

Formative Assessment

Three WebCT-delivered multiple choice question (MCQ) tests with on-line feedback at various times during term.

Feedback

MCQ's have already been piloted and used for GL 1004 in session 2009/10. SCEFS and other comments suggest students find these extremely valuable, and it is intended to use these for the new course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 1005

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Students with 'A' level or equivalent in geology may be exempt from this pre-requisite at the discretion of course-coordinator/Head of School.

Overview

An introduction to the petrogenesis of three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. The application of the polarizing microscope in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals. The relationship between plate tectonics and the petrogenesis of igneous amd metamorphic rocks, including types and styles of volcanic eruptions and hazards. The formation and fill of sedimentary basins and their importance in the accumulation of hydrocarbons.

Structure

10 one-hour lectures; 10 two-hour practical classes.

1 half-day fieldwork after the Easter break.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 90 minute examination (50%); in-course assessment (50%). In-course assessment will include class tests in optical microscopy and mineral identification.

Resit: Examination (2 hours) including practical section (100%).

Formative Assessment

WebCT-based multiple choice (MCQ) tests with on-line feedback at various time during term. Exercises with solutions during practical classes.

Feedback

MCQ's have already been piloted for GL 1004 during 2009-2010. SCEFS and other comments suggest that students find these extremely valuable, and it is intended to use MCQ tests in this course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 1005 and GL 1505

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Students with 'A' level Geology or equivalent may be exempt from the GL 1005 prerequisite.
Students who have taken and passed KL 107X or KL 157X or equivalent make take this course subject to prior permission of the course coordinator.

Overview

Structure

2 two-hour sessions per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: in-course assessment (60%) - lab work (geochronology calculations and report; map interpretation)
(40%) examination - 1½ hours.

Resit: Original in-course assessment (60%); Examination (40%) - 1½ hours.

Formative Assessment

Informal progress reports on lab work - interim marking of lab-based exercises.
WebCT MCQ tests three times a term.

Feedback

Formative: Verbal report, WebCT
Summative: written feedback normally within 2 weeks of original sumbmission.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S A Bowden

Pre-requisites

GL 1005; GL 1505

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Students with 'A' level Geology or equivalent may be exempt from the GL 1005 prerequisite.
Students who have taken and passed KL 107X or KL 157X or equivalent may take this course subject to prior permission of the course coordinator.

Overview

Chemical Composition of Earth as a planetary body.
Composition and structure of the common rock-forming minerals.
Introduction to phase equilibria; melting processes and magma production; crystallization and consolidation of magma. Solid-state reactions in rock materials; metamorphic reactions.
Diagenesis & weathering.
Processes and environments of chemical/biological sediment formation.

Structure

2 one-hour lectures per week. 8 three-hour practical classes during 1/2 session.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); in-course assessment (40%). In course assessment will be based on laboratory exercises.

Resit: Examination (60%) plus original in-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Interim marking of laboratory-based exercises throughout term, with feedback every two weeks.

Feedback

Written summative feedback will be provided on laboratory exercises prior to the written examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C P North

Pre-requisites

GL 1005; GL 1505.

Co-requisites

GL 2014, GL 2015, GL 2511

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

Six days of fieldwork, in an area with a significant diversity of geological features.

• Collecting accurate and precise structural data.


• Logging of a sedimentary sequence and analysis of the palaeoenvironment.


• Examination and recording of features of igneous and metamorphic rocks.


• Recording data on a topographical map and in a notebook.


• Instructed practical classes prior to the field course will include the background to sedimentology and the construction of sedimentary logs.

Structure

Residential fieldcourse of six days duration. Introductory instructed practical classes, approximately 4 three-hours each.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Resit: Apply to course coordinator.

Formative Assessment

The majority of teaching is a small groups at outcrop. Feedback is therefore continuous and on-going throughout the course.

A series of problem-based exercises will be set over the field course and these are marked and returned to students generally within 48 hours.

Feedback

Written summative feedback will be provided on daily field-based exercises.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr R Stephenson

Pre-requisites

GL 2014, GL 2015

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

• Gravity and isostasy, satellites and geodesy, geomagnetism and palaeomagnetism, geoelectrics, heat flow; techniques of seismology, origin and form of waves, locating earthquakes and deducing their focal mechanisms.


• Using active and passive seismic methods to deduce earth structure, principles for interpreting seismic reflection data.


• Introduction to earth forces, stress and deformation of the solid earth.


• Fluid dynamics, fluid flow, physical sedimentary and volcanic processes.


• Origin of sedimentary structures.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week. 4 three-hour practical sessions/surgeries throughout term.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (20%); two-hour examination (80%).

Resit: Two-hour examination (100%).

Formative Assessment

Worksheets from surgeries and practical sessions will provide a vehicle for formative assessment.

Feedback

Written and oral comments on worksheets during surgeries. Summative assessment at the end of term.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D Macdonald

Pre-requisites

Only available to students who have completed Level 1 of a BEng or MEng programme.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

1. Introduction to the Earth as a Planet; the constitution and physical conditions of the subsurface

2. An introduction mineral species and to the petrogenesis of three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary

3. The application of various techniques in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals and of rocks important in the petroleum industry

4. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of common sedimentary rocks. This section will focus on their reservoir and seal properties.

5. Deformation of rocks; the formation of faults and folds and their signifiicance in the petroleum industry.

Structure

12 x 1 hour lectures; 10 x 2 hour practical classes.

1 half-day fieldwork after the Easter break.

1 half-day visit to a local consulting company supporting the oil industry in Aberdeen.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 x 90 minute examination (50%) and in-course assessment (50%).

Candidates must pass both elements of the assessment.

In-course assessment will include class tests in rock and mineral identification.

Resit: 100% examination (2 hours) including practical section.

Formative Assessment

WebCT-based multiple choice (MCQ) tests with on-line feedback at various time during term. Exercises with solutions during practical classes.

Feedback

MCQ's were piloted for GL1004 during 2009-2010. SCEFS and other comments suggest that students find these extremely valuable, and it is intended to use MCQ tests in this course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J E Neilson

Pre-requisites

GL 2014; GL 2015; GL 2510; GL 2511. Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

• The origin of petroleum including fundamental processes of organic deposition, thermal maturation, migration of fluids.


• Formation of the different types of traps for reservoired petroleum.


• Exploration strategies and the role of the geologist.


• Techniques for remotely determining rock properties including wireline logging and geophysical (seismic, gravity and aeromagnetic) surveys.

Structure

12 three-hour sessions of lectures, practicals and tutorials, plus 6 two hour workshops.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 ninety minute written examination paper (75%); in-course assessment (25%).

Resit: Failed elements of assessment by examination.

Formative Assessment

In-course assessments are completed during practical classes, with additional private study time. These are submitted duirng the period of the course on three occassions, with feedback provided at each stage.

Feedback

Feedback is given in writing on individual student's work and group feedback is provided during workshops.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor A.J Hartley

Pre-requisites

GL 2511, GL2014, GL 2015, GL 2510.

Co-requisites

Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Notes

Note(s): Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

One week field excursion: The excursion concentrates on field techniques and data recording and interpretation. Experience will be gained in mapping and logging sedimentary sequences. Field recording and interpretation includes structural data, current directions, construction of cross-sections, reconstruction of palaeoenvironments and field palaeontology.

Structure

Mapping classes: A series of follow-up pratical classes on the interpretation of geological maps.

One week residential field course at the beginnning of first half-session level 3.

5 three-hour mapping workshops.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).
This will include assessments carried-out whilst on fieldwork and in practical classes.

Resit: Repeat course.

Formative Assessment

The majority of teaching is a small groups at outcrop. Feedback is therefore continuous and on-going throughout the course. Field-based exercises are submitted after the days fieldwork, and marked and returned whilst the residential part of the course is still running.

Feedback

Field-based assessments are marked and returned during the field course, giving feedback on one exercise before completion of the next. Class-based exercises will be fed-back after each exercise.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor R Butler

Pre-requisites

GL 2511, GL 2014, GL 2015, GL 2510. Only available to students at Level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

Interpretation of the surface geology of regions using geological maps and landforms using satellite and other remote sensing data. Cross-section construction. Introduction to the structural interpretation of seismic data. The main styles of deformation structures, faults, folds and distributed distortional strain and their analysis. 3D Structural analysis using stereographic projections. Simple kinematic approaches, relationship of deformation structures to tectonics and their importance for the structure of the crust and its sedimentary basins.

Structure

20 three-hour lecture/practical sessions.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (30%); examination (two-hours) (70%).

Resit: Two-hour examination (100%).

Formative Assessment

Multiple choice questions will be set at intervals during the course to provide both summative and formative feedback.

Feedback

Laboratory-based exercises will be set and marked and retuurned to students withn two weeks of submission.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M.J. Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 2014; GL 2015; GL 2510; GL 2511. Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

The course would be based on lectures and associated practical material. Case studies would be drawn mainly from the North Sea and North Atlantic, using the same material where possible to illustrate different aspects of stratigraphic analysis. Case studies from other parts of the world would be used where appropriate (e.g. Tethyan carbonates to illustrate certain aspects of sequence stratigraphy). Detailed content as follows:

• An overview of the stratigraphic principles outlined in first year (e.g. geologic time scale, stratigraphic sequences and unconformities).


• Review of the main stratigraphically useful groups of macrofossils (e.g. graptolites, echinoids, ammonites etc.) and microfossils (e.g. archritarchs, foraminifera, spores, pollen etc.) excluding trace fossils which will be included in Level 3 sedimentology.


• Geochronology (including how some systems may interact with the biological system) and introduce isotopic stratigraphy (carbon, oxygen and strontium) and correlation in barren sequences using chemical fingerprinting.


• Introduction to sequence stratigraphy, the terms used, how analysis and facies distribution relates to absolute or relative SL variation and the major differences between clastic and carbonate systems.


• Identifcation, description, correlation and documentation of stratigraphical sequences on local (relative to logging, geological mapping and map analysis), regional and global scales (e.g. correlation of major extinction events, SL changes, volcanic activity).

Structure

2 hours lectures for 12 weeks and 3 hours practical per week for 10 weeks.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 2-hour written examination (50%) and in-courses assessment (50%).

Resit: Examination (50%) and original in-course assessment (50%). carried- forward.

Formative Assessment

Assessment is completed by the end of week 5 and submitted electronically to MyAberdeen.

Feedback

Assessment above is read-back electronically to each student by the end of week 7. Any obviously misconceptions within the class as a whole can be addressed in later classes as general feedback.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

Only available to students registered for the Designated Degree in Geoscience, Geology, Geology-Petroleum Geology or Joint or Combined programmes with a core GL content.

Notes

This course is normally only available to students registered for a Designated Degree of Geoscience, Geology, Geology-Petroleum Geology or Joint or Combined programmes with a core GL content.

This course cannot be taken with GL3512 Field Techniques 2 as part of a graduating curriculum.

Overview

A dissertation not exceeding 5,000 words based upon an original geological investigation or a literature review.

Or, where appropriate, the submission of a piece of independently executed fieldwork, in the form of a map and brief accompanying memoir, may be permitted at the discretion of the Course Coordinator.

Structure

No formal teaching hours.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 100% in course assessment. A dissertation not exceeding 5,000 words based upon an original geological investigation or a literature review.

Or, the submission of a piece of independently executed fieldwork, in the form of a map and brief accompanying memoir.

Resit: Resubmission of previous report.

Formative Assessment

Students will be allocated, or find a project advisor from amongst the Staff or Postgraduate Research Fellows who will guide them through the investigation.

Feedback

Individual meetings with project supervisor.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor R Butler

Pre-requisites

GL 2014, GL 2015, GL 2510, GL 2511. Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None.

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

The course comprises 10 days of field work undertaken during second half-session. It consists of 6 days of advanced field observation, mapping, data recording and analysis and 4 days analysis of the structural and petrological characteristics of Caledonian granitoids and their country rock hosts. Maps, records of field observations, field syntheses and interpretations are produced and developed during the course.

Structure

Residential field course.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 100% by in-course assessment including a 2000 word pre-fieldcourse report.
Most assessment will be carried-out whilst on fieldwork.

Resit: Repeat course.

Formative Assessment

The majority of teaching is a small groups at outcrop. Feedback is therefore continuous and on-going throughout the course. Field-based exercises are submitted after the days fieldwork, and marked and returned whilst the residential part of the course is still running.

Feedback

Field-based assessments are marked and returned during the fieldcourse, giving feedback on one exercise before completion of the next. Class-based exercises will be fed-back after each exercise.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor R Stephenson

Pre-requisites

GL 2014, GL 2015, GL 2510, GL 2511. Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

none

Overview

Attendance at departmental research seminars and workshops.Additional course-specific lecture/workshops developing ideas and concepts from seminar series. Final assessment will require the submission of a public friendly scientific narrative on an approved topic, and a presentation to peer-group on that topic.

Structure

8 x 1 hour departmental research seminars, with follow-up 1 hour tutorials immediately after the seminars as required. At least 6 x 2 hour lectures/worshops on key topical issues in geoscience from departmental and outside speakers.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 100% by in-course assessment. Final assessment will require the submission of a public friendly scientific narrative on an approved topic, and presentation to peer-group on that topic.

Resit: Re-submission of report.

Formative Assessment

Students will choose the topic which they wish to pursue for their final submission. An outline and work-flow for their investigation will be submitted at the end of week 5 of the course. This will be cristically assessed and feedback given.
Students will be free to consult any staff on their topic at any time during the course.

Feedback

This will mostly be done via informal meetings and via 2-hour tutorials or small group workshops.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr D Healy

Pre-requisites

GL 2014; GL 2015; GL 2510; GL 2511. Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

• Petrogenesis of igneous rocks of Island arcs and Cordillera.


• Petrogenesis of oceanic within plate magmas.


• Petrogenesis of continental flood basalts and relationship to continental break-up.


• Blueschists and eclogites (high pressure-low temperature) metamorphism associated with subduction.


• Granulites and granites (high temperature-low pressure) metamorphism associated with crustal thickening.

Structure

2 one hour lectures per week; one practical session per week including computing classes.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment 50% - four equally weighted practical assessments
Examination 50%.

Resit: 50% original in-course assessment; 50% examination.

Formative Assessment

In-course multiple choice tests will give instant feedback.
Practical exercises will be submitted to MyAberdeen Electronically.

Feedback

Feedback will be made electronically through MyAberdeen.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C P North

Pre-requisites

GL 2014; GL 2015; GL 2510; GL 2511. Only available to students at level 3 of a Geoscience School Degree Programme.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

The course will take a problem-led approach emphasising concepts and techniques in preference to exhaustive knowledge.

• Overview and synthesis of sedimentology material covered in previous courses.


• Objectives, methods and procedures for sedimentary rock description and recording.
• Review of the general characteristics and processes of modern-day sedimentary environments.


• Introduction to trace fossil analysis and how ichnology aids environmental interpretation.


• Autogenic and allogenic controls on sediment preservation and accumulation, with an introduction to sequence stratigraphy.


• Practice at interpreting sedimentary logs, describing a core, using petrography to aid environmental analysis.

Structure

2 x one-hour lectures per week.
1 x three-hour practical or guided self-directed learning session per week.
Additional tutorials as required.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60%) plus in-course assessment (40%) based on practical exercises (must achieve at least CAS 9 for all in-course assessments to pass the module overall).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (60%) plus in-course assessment carried forward from first attempt (40%).

Formative Assessment

Core-logging exercise and production of a sedimentary facies model is carried out over the course of the half-session, and this is marked in interim marking as well as a final summative mark.

Feedback

Individual feedback on exercises during the period of the course. class feedback on key issues.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor David Macdonald

Pre-requisites

This programme is normally only open to students who have successfully completed the first two years of a petroleum Engineering programme (BEng or MEng). Other students may occasionally be admitted at the discretion of the Head of School.

Co-requisites

None

Overview

• Principles of petroleum geology, including unconventionals.


• The petroleum system.


• Exploration techniques, including reflection seismic acquisition and processing.


• Petrophysics I.


• Petrophysics II.


• Geological input into drilling and completion.


• The language of the log - understanding comp logs.


• Formation evaluation I.


• Formation evaluation II.


• Reservoir architecture in lab and field.

Structure

10 x three-hour sessions, one per week. These are mixed lectures/labs/tutorials.

Two full days of field work, six hours work per day plus travel time.

One three-hour revision tutorial.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment exercise on reservoir geology, either in the form of a poster or a PowerPoint presentation (30%).

One two hour written examination (70%).

Resit: 1 two hour written examination (100%).

Formative Assessment

Class presentations assessed by peer assessment with instant fedback.

In-field role-play exercise on development geology and well planning.

Feedback

Formative assessment: peer feedback (instant) and oral feedback from tutor (instant).

Summative assessment by mark sheet dissecting performance under five headings: content, interpretation, discussion, conclusions and presentation (each worth 20%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor J Parnell

Pre-requisites

Only for Hon students in Geology & Petroleum Geology

Overview

1. Reading and critiquing Thomas Gold's 2001 book "The Deep Hot Biosphere: The Myth of Fossil Fuels".


2. Investigation of one aspect that student believes Gold has misunderstood OR that oil/gas industry has overlooked.


3. Supported by seminar-format explanation of some of the issues involved, particularly those pertinent to hydrocarbon formation/distribution (including deep permeability, biomarkers, role of microbes).


4. Practical study of non-conventional occurrences of hydrocarbons.


5. Survey of class beliefs before/after reading the book.

Structure

6 one-hour tutorials (to be arranged)
2 three-hour practicals

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continous assessment (100%).

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Prof R Butler

Pre-requisites

Only available to level 4 Honours Geology-Petroleum Geology and Geoscience students.

Overview

This is an independent project and has no specific lecture or practical syllabus. The course aims to make students integrate all their geological knowledge and skills gained on previous courses and challenges them to be more aware of their own academic and self management skills. The course is designed to encourage students to plan and execute a small research project and, whilst the initial choice of project is subject to staff scrutiny (for reasons of safety and geological suitability), the subsequent input and guidance from staff advisers is controlled by student request.

Structure

3 one-day field courses in the Aberdeen area after the May examination diet. 35 days of individual fieldwork in an area approved by supervisor.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Professor R Butler

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

GL 4521 Geological Research Project.

Notes

Cannot be taken as part of a graduating curriculum with GL 4023 Geological Mapping Project.

Overview

This is an independent project and has no specific lecture or practical syllabus. The course aims to make students integrate all their geological knowledge and skills gained on previous courses and challenges them to be more aware of their own academic and self management skills.

The course is designed to encourage students to plan and execute a small research project and, whilst the initial choice of project is subject to staff scrutiny (for reasons of safety and geological suitability), the subsequent input and guidance from staff advisers is controlled by student request.

Structure

Each student will have at least 1 day of field supervision from a member of staff at a mutually agreed time, but approximately half-way through their field days.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Assessment of field note books, field maps, logs etc.; assessment of map "clean copy" (60%); Poster & oral presentation (40%).

Formative Assessment

Guidance will be given in the field and at tutorials by mutual agreement between staff and students.

Feedback

Tutorials and field days will allow formative feedback.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Professor J Parnell

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, MGeol, Geography-Geoscience & Geology-Physics students.

Notes

This course may not be taken as part of a graduating curriculum with GL 45XX Geology Field Course.

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

1. Thermal history techniques, including fission track analysis, fluid inclusion analysis, biomarker analysis.


2. Diagenesis in sedimentary basins, and consequences for exploration.


3. Indicators of palaeogeography, palaeoenvironments, provenance, and the use of space-time diagrams.


4. Application of biostratigraphic techniques in basin exploration.


5. Application of petroleum geochemistry in basin exploration.


6. Gas hydrates (clathrates): global distribution, stability; occurrence in geological history.


7. Natural gas: origins, analysis of gases to determine origin; hydrogen springs.


8. Shale gas/coal bed methane: Potential distribution of shale gas; prediction and detection of shale gas; coal bed methane.


9. Hydrocarbons in basement rocks: Occurrence, commercial prospects; possibility of abiogenic hydrocarbons.


10. Tar sands, oil shale and massive bitumen: Global distribution of tar sands, their formation and prospectivity; massive bitumen deposits; oil shales.

Structure

6 one-hour lectures
18 three-hour seminar-practical packages
3 days field course, equivalent to 24 hours classes (residential).

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (60%); examination (40%).

Resit: Examination (40%) and resubmission of failed elements of in-course assessment.

Formative Assessment

Practical and seminar parts of course package will allow for oral formative feedback.

Field course will be taught in small groups (2 staff and about 25 students) giving good opportunity for feedback.

Feedback

Return of a series of short assessments run throughout the half-session, with feedback sheets for each. Resource prediction Report and Data interpretation report will be returned with summative comments before the end of the course.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr I Alsop

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None.

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

A series of one-day field exercises based around the Aberdeen area.

Structure

All field-based.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In course assessment (70%); examination (30%).

One-day courses will each have a report associated with them.

The (30%) by examination is a General Paper in the May Examination diet.

Formative Assessment

Field-based teaching is largely problem-based, and much of the formative assessment is done in the field.

Each of the one-day field courses will have an exercise associated with it.

Feedback

For the one-day field courses, each report will be marked and returned to the students prior to the next field day.

Credit Points

12.5

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 3017 Field Techniques 1.

Notes

This course is only for students taking a joint degree.
Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

This field based course covers synthesis and geological modelling and comprises (1) an 8 day field course in North West Scotland or Northern England and (2) a short report and oral presentation on an assigned regional study.

Structure

Field courses.

Assessment

Assessment: Based on field work reports (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 3023, GL 3024

Notes

Only available to students at Levels 3 or 4 of a Geoscience School Programme.

Overview

1) geophysical methodology applied to continental reconstructions
2) the birth of continents
3) intra-continental evolution
4) basins and basin formation
5) continental margin evolution
6) magmatism and the causes continental break-up
7) ore belts of supercontinents

Structure

2 one-hour lectures per week. Practical-tutorial groups: 1 three-hour practical/self-directed learning session per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (50%); examination (50%).

Resit: Examination (100%). Exemptions from part of the examination can be awarded with the discretion of the Course Co-ordinator/Course team.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C E Bond

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

• Working with digital geological data.


• Loading GIS datasets.


• Collecting digital geological data.


• Analysis of uncertainties in data collection and interpretation.


• 3D datasets, using visualisation to understand 3D geometries, and
  using software tools to assess the validity of models.

Structure

6 one-hour lectures and 12 three-hour practicals; with associated directed learning.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Mid session group practical exercise and poster creation (30%); Individual work project (70%).

Formative Assessment

Feedback will be given after the mid-session group work.

Feedback

The students will mark each others poster- based on a pro-forma, providing the students with peer-review of their own work.

The teaching staff will complete the same forms and provide further feedback verbally to the groups.
During the individual project work there will be drop-in sessions for students to get feedback on their work.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Prof D I M Macdonald

Pre-requisites

GL 4024

Notes

Only available for to students with an offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Overview

A series of case-studies of producing hydrocarbon basins will form the core teaching for this course.

Structure

12 three-hour lecture-seminar-practical packages.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); In-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Practical and seminar parts of course package will allow for oral formative feedback.

Feedback

Summative assessment will be provided on in-course assessment using pro-forma. This will be handed back to the students by the end of the ninth week of teacinng to allow for pre-examination feedback.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I Alsop

Pre-requisites

GL 4024

Co-requisites

None.

Notes

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Overview

• Basics of reflection seismology.


• Signal theory and propagation of waves.


• Reflection seismic acquisition.


• Seismic processing fundamentals and digital filtering.


• Seismic interpretation for structures.


• Reservoir aspects of seismic interpretation.


• Seismic stratigraphy.


• Fundamentals of gravity and magnetic surveys.

Structure

15 three-hour lecture-seminar-practical packages, plus self-directed learning and private study.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (60%); In-course assessment (40%).

Formative Assessment

Practical and seminar parts of course package will allow for oral formative feedback.

Feedback

Summative assessment will be provided on in-course assessment using pro-forma.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor P D Clift

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology, Geosciences, Geology, Geography-Geosciences & Geology-Physics students.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

1. Mechanical properties of the continental and oceanic lithosphere


2. Sedimentary basins in extensional rift settings; flexural basins - forelands.


3. Controls on the erosion of the continental crust


4. Climate-tectonic interactions in collisional orogens ? Himalaya, Taiwan, Alaska, Andes


5. Orogenic plateaus Tibet and the Asian monsoon


6. River systems as agents of crustal recycling. Controls on their large scale evolution.


7. Oceanic gateways in Earth history ?Indonesia, Panama, Drake Passage, N. Atlantic deep water


8. Sediment and crustal recycling at subduction zones.


9. Superplumes, mass extinction events and oceanic anoxic events


10. Controls on global sealevel and its influence on stratigraphy, erosion and crustal recycling

Structure

12 two-hour workshops/lectures.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 5 minute presentation of ideas from a paper chosen from a set provided to the class together with discussion of issues involved - 20% of total marks.

A1 sized poster and 5 minute oral presentation concerning a climate-tectonic linkage to be chosen from a short list provided and based on examples discussed in the classes. - 35% of the total marks.

Final Exam - 45% of the total marks - Set questions based on class work and practicals. Short, often numerical based answers.

Formative Assessment

Oral and poster presentations will take the form of a conference - peer feedback and staff feedback and discussion.

Feedback

Marks and comments will be returned to students on a pro forma.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr S.A. Bowden

Pre-requisites

Entry onto the Honours Programme in Geology-Physics or Physics with Geology or any other combined or Joint honours course which includes core GL courses.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

This course is an independent laboratory based investigation with no specific syllabus of lecture or practical classes. The course requires students to integrate previous knowledge and skills gained during geological course-work in to a coherent self-learning package chosen to satisfy the interests of individual students. In essence, it is the culmination of the degree course allowing the student to carry out self-directed research.

Structure

No formal teaching.

Assessment

1st Attempt:
1) SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION: Outline of the intended project.(10%)
2) WRITTEN REPORT: (80%) in the form of a "Short" to the Journal of the Geological Society of London.
3) SEMINAR: Peer assessed (cross subject) and by a panel of staff members. (10%)

Formative Assessment

The application and outline must be submitted prior to commencing project work.
Feedback is given on the practicailities and structure of the programme of work.
The student must keep an accurate laboratory notebook documenting the time spent and outcomes of their investigations.

Feedback

On an individual basis via project supervisor.
"Random Inspection" of laboratory notebook.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D Jolley

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology, Archaeology-Geoscience, Geography-Geoscience, Geology-Physics & MGeol.

Notes

This course cannot be taken with GL 40XX Petroleum Geology: Geochemistry and Geofluids.

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

A residential field class of up to 6 days tied to the interpretation of supporting geological data and previously published work, followed by presentations through combinations of oral, poster and written report.

Structure

Residential course, plus 4 three-hour preparation classes during week 30-36.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Formative Assessment

Assessments will be set on an individual day of field work, and returned, marked before the end of the course.

Feedback

By return of assessment sheets accompanying each individual assessment exercise.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr D Lacopini

Pre-requisites

Offer of continuation to level 4 Honours programme in Geology-Petroleum Geology or Geology-Physics.

Overview

Basics of reflection seismology.
Signal theory and propagation of waves.

Reflection seismic acquisition.

Seismic processing fundamentals and digital filtering.

Seismic interpretation for structures.

Reservoir aspects of seismic interpretation.

Seismic stratigraphy.
Fundamentals of gravity and magnetic surveys.

Loading GIS datasets.

Collecting digital geological data.

Analysis of uncertainties in data collection and interpretation.

3D datasets, using visualisation to understand 3D geometries, and using software tools to assess the validity of models.

Structure

Lectures and computing sessions using workstations.
The course will use industry-standard licenced software packages provided by Industry Partners.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Examination (50%); In-course assessment (50%).

Resit: Not applicable.

Formative Assessment

The students will mark each others' poster- based on a pro-forma, providing the students with peer-review of their own work.

The teaching staff will complete the same forms and provide further feedback verbally to the groups.

During the individual project work there will be drop-in sessions for students to get feedback on their work.

Feedback

During the individual project work there will be drop-in sessions for students to get feedback on their work.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr R Stephenson

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Overview

A Quantitative modelling in Geology

• Background concepts and physical principles underlying quantitative modelling techniques as used in geological applications


• Non-specialist overview of the mathematical expression of these physical principles


• Examination of the applications of quantitative modelling techniques, their strengths and weaknesses, to fluid flow, structural geology, geodynamics problems

• Principles of X-ray analysis (XRD, XRF, electron microprobe)


• Principles of ICP and ICP-MS


• Principles of GC and GC-MS


• Principles of the Scanning electron microscope


• Relative costs of techniques.

Structure

2 one-hour lecture/tutorial per week; 2 one-hour practical per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%). This will include mathematical problems for the quantiative modelling content and practical analytical problems for the Laboratory techniques content.

Formative Assessment

Most of the mathematical problems will be in class and solutions will be summarized at the end of that class.

Feedback

Feedback on the analytical content of the course will be by formal marking of assignments with feedback sheets.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

• Construction of scientific argument, identifying and formulating hypotheses.


• The nature and uncertainties in data and interpretation.


• Design of workflows.


• Critical interrogation of published material.


• Synthesis of previous research


• Presentation of science to peer-groups through writing, poster, oral and web-based media.


• Presentation of science to non-technical audiences through various media.

Structure

1 three-hour contact sessions
Directed project-work, preparing materials. This will include seminars, written material, poster presentations and the production of web-based materials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Through submission of a portfolio of practical work (scientific writing, poster, powerpoint/oral and digital materials at the end of the course.

Resubmission of portfolio.

Formative Assessment

A combination of group-based peer-review sessions moderated by the course team, with feedback given after each major task.

Feedback

A combination of group-based peer-review sessions moderated by the course team, with feedback given after each major task.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor R W H Butler

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Notes

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of this course. Fieldwork may involve crossing rough terrain, including steep gradients, rocky areas and along cliffs, and may take place during inclement weather. Any student with concerns about this, who feels adjustments or additional support may be required, should contact the University's Disability Adviser or the Department Disability Co-ordinator as early as possible. The Department is committed to making reasonable adjustments to enable students to achieve the learning outcomes of the degree programme.

Overview

A residential field class of up to 10 days tied to the interpretation of supporting geophysical and remote-sensing data and previously published work, followed by presentations through combinations of oral, poster and written report.

Structure

Residential course.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Presentations (Individual (60% - Group 40%)

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment will be on-going in the field.

Feedback

Oral feedback, both from peers and lecturers will be an integral part of the presentations

Credit Points

60

Course Coordinator

Professor R W H Butler

Pre-requisites

Acceptance for progression to the degree of Master of Geology.

Overview

The project content will be decided in collaboration with a named supervisor within the Department of Geology & Petroleum Geology. The topic chosen will be consistent with the options taken at level 4.

Structure

Supervisory meetings, at least once a week during the project period.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Submission of 5,000 word technical report (70%); Oral Presentation (10%); Submission of a 'popular' science article (20%).

Formative Assessment

Supervisory meetings will take place weekly during the period of the project.

Approximately half-way through the project, an interim report showing progress to date will be submitted.

Feedback

Via supervisory meetings. At least one supervisory meeting per week will take place at which the student will be expected to attend.