Applied Geology - Courses, Subjects, Colleges, Syllabus, Scope, Fees, Eligibility

08 January,2024  |  By Brainwonders

What is Applied Geology?

Geology has many applications that can be used to enhance human activities. This multidisciplinary course focuses on how the principles of geology, economics, water science and technology, engineering, and environmental science intertwine. Studying Applied Geology, you can better understand how these fields combine to improve our lives.

It involves studying and analyzing landforms, rocks, minerals, soils, and groundwater to better understand the impact these features have on human activities. Professional applied geologists use their knowledge to inform resource management and environmental protection decisions, support new technologies and infrastructure development and assess long-term risks from natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and floods. They also provide critical data in engineering projects such as bridge foundations, dam designs, hydroelectric power plants, and underground storage reservoirs. By studying past geological events, applied geologists are able to better predict future ones, ensuring that people are better prepared for any potential disasters.

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Applied Geology

To be eligible for an M.Sc or M.Tech in Applied Geology, applicants must have earned their Bachelor's degree (B.Tech for M.Tech candidates) in Geology with a minimum percentage of 50-60%. The criteria for eligibility may vary slightly depending on the institute or a student's category based on state reservations.

Entrance Exams for Applied Geology PG Courses

Taking the main entrance exams for M.Tech in applied geology into consideration, GATE and TANCET are two widely recognized tests. 

GATE stands for Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering and tests students' aptitude for engineering masters programs, including M.Tech and MBA. It is held once a year and takes place exclusively online. 

TANCET stands for Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test, which Anna University primarily arranges. As far as M.Sc applied geology is concerned, colleges or universities usually have their own entrance examinations to be passed with the minimal required score or percentage to get a seat in the chosen institute.

Scope of Applied Geology in India and Abroad

In India, Applied Geology is used to design public infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and ports. Geologists are involved in assessing the terrain, soil type, and stability to ensure minimal environmental disruption. Geologists also play an essential role in understanding the potential effects of climate change, managing water resources, mitigating natural disasters, and monitoring seismic activities in populated areas. 

Internationally, Applied Geology is used by extractive industries to locate and identify suitable sources of minerals and other natural resources. In energy, geologists are employed for hydrocarbon exploration to map possible wind farms and renewable energy resources. Additionally, applied geology provides insight into natural processes that influence human migration and colonization patterns.

Overall, applied geology has become an essential field in modern society due to its ability to provide practical solutions to everyday problems and inform larger societal initiatives. By continuing to advance their knowledge and skillset, geologists will remain essential actors in the protection of our planet's natural environment and the sustainable development of its resources.

Minimum Fees			Maximum Fees
	Private	Government	Private	Government
UG	-	2.8 lakhs	-	13.3 lakhs
PG	60 k	9.5 k	2.35 lakhs	1.7 lakhs

Course Subjects

Some of the subjects that are included in this following are as follows:

• Structural geology
• Mineralogy
• Palaeontology
• Geochemistry and isotope geology
• Hydrology
• Igneous petrology
• Mineralogical and geochemical techniques 
• Geodynamics
• Sedimentology
• Stratigraphy
• Metamorphic processes and phase equilibria
• Remote sensing and GIS
• Environmental geology
• Geotechnical engineering
• Geomathematics
• Geostatistics
• Marine geosciences
• Energy resources
• Igneous petrogenesis and tectonics
• Data analysis in geology

Optional Subjects include:

• Earth system science
• Ore geology and mineral deposits
• palaeoclimatology
• Exploration geophysics
• Earth science colloquium
• Mining and beneficiation
• Sequence stratigraphy

Careers in Applied Geology

Completion of an applied geology course can open up a range of opportunities depending on which subject the student has specialised in and their degree level. Those with a M.Sc or M.Tech qualification could find roles such as:

Some of the jobs that are available after completion of M.Sc applied geology are:

• Project Assistant
• Assistant Geologist
• Assistant Chemist
• ONGC Chair Professor

Some of the jobs that are available jobs after M.Tech applied geology are:

• Geographer
• Oceanographers
• Geologists
• Meteorologists
• Seismologist
• Completions Technologist
• Processing Geophysicist
• Researchers 

Upcoming trends

The geology field has seen significant strides in progression and innovation, giving rise to a number of global trends. One of the most prominent of these is the usage of 3D imaging technology for mapping the surface of Earth. Numerous professionals are leveraging this technology to document every part of the planet. Furthermore, geologists are turning to the development of reliable 4D models to enable more accurate predictions of geological events.

Top Recruiters and Job Profiles

The jobs available to those who have done MSc in Applied Geology are:

1. Geologists:

A geologist's role is to analyse the composition and structure of the Earth, perform research and investigations, and examine fossils. They then need to construct a report and develop a hypothesis based on their findings. With a logical tone and style, these tasks all become part of the daily work of a geologist.

2. Processing geophysicists:

Processing Geophysicists are tasked with carefully planning, analysing, and processing information gathered via various geophysics-related procedures. Furthermore, they are expected to generate comprehensive reports detailing their studies' results. This data is then correlated to the property and geology of the region and may involve using physical measurement tools.

3. Meteorologists:

A Meteorologist is tasked with predicting the weather and climate patterns of a region utilising computerised models and mathematical calculations. These generated insights are then used to forecast geological events. This information can be effectively employed with logical precision to understand the characteristics of a given locality's climate.

4. Seismologist:

Seismologists study the subterranean phenomena occurring beneath the Earth's crust. They can forecast and prepare for potentially disruptive natural disasters such as earthquakes through rigorous research and analysis. Additionally, these experts study rock formation and monitor seismic movements to gain further insight.

5. Completion technologists:

Completion technologists are tasked with overseeing the work of their associates, putting together presentations, proposing solutions, and reporting on the necessities. Utilising logical reasoning and thoughtful analysis, they strive to meet all necessary requirements.

6. Researchers:

Researchers have to devise plans for their projects. This necessitates collecting sufficient information from their research and studies, analysing it, and postulating hypotheses based on the results obtained.

7. Professors and Academicians:

Professors and educators have the duty to deliver lectures and assign projects, assignments, and case studies to students. The primary objective of the professor is to enhance the student's comprehension of the topic.

The job profiles after completing M.tech in applied geology are as follows:

1. Instrumentation engineer:

As an instrumentation engineer, one is responsible for designing, constructing, setting up, managing, and maintaining equipment. This apparatus is used to keep track of and manage engineering systems, machinery, and other operations. Such engineers are also referred to as Control and Instrumentation engineers.

2. Technical director:

As a Technical Director (TD) or Technical Producer (TP), it is their responsibility to guarantee that the technical equipment utilised in the respective organisation is secure, well-maintained, and prepared for use. These tasks may overlap with those of the House Manager when applicable.

3. Field test engineer:

Field Test Engineers have an essential responsibility to ensure the safety of new products; they must test these items before their release to the public. This role is intricate and must be performed with precision and efficacy.

Major companies where geologists and specialists are employed are as follows:

1. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation
2. Indian Oil Corporation
3. Bharat Petroleum
4. Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)
5. National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad
6. National Institute of Oceanography (NIO)
7. INCOIS
8. CSIR & DRDO Laboratories  
9. Agricultural sectors
10. Educational institutions such as various colleges and universities.
11. Geological Survey of India.
12. Central Ground Water Board 
13. Coal India
14. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
15. Mineral Exploration Authority
16. Hindustan Zinc
17. Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)
18. Minerals and Metals Trading Corporation (MMTC)
19. Mineral Exploration Ltd.
20. Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM)
21. Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)

Average Salary

The salary range for a fresh graduate with a Master of Technology in Applied Geology degree is between two and twenty lakhs per annum, while the pay scale for postgraduates possessing a Master of Science degree stands at two to thirteen lakhs annually.

Required Skillset for Applied Geology

1. Communication Skill:

Communication ability is fundamental to promoting a streamlined data transmission within the team and business. This communication capacity is essential for directing personnel, delivering information, debating issues and strengthening camaraderie.

2. Teamwork:

Working as part of a team is essential for any project in this field. To make sure team members collaborate successfully, it is necessary to cultivate strong team skills. Such skills facilitate faster problem-solving, help foster an improved work atmosphere and maximise synergies.

3. Perceptual skills:

Geologists must possess acute observational abilities, as they must be prepared to take note of even the most minor details. They must accurately document their observations and analyse them in order to reach a reliable conclusion.

4. Problem-solving skills:

Geologists are tasked with analysing numerous issues in their field. From anticipating the potential ramifications of a given action to identifying causes behind a consequence and formulating strategies to conquer complex predicaments, they must carefully consider all possible outcomes before instituting a final course of action.

5. Analytical skills:

A candidate's most advantageous attribute is their capacity for logical thought. This allows them to comprehend intricate issues, find the source of these issues and assess how grave they are, enabling them to make an informed decision regarding the proper course of action.

6. Observation:

Geologists must possess extraordinary powers of observation. They must be able to detect even the slightest alterations in the earth's terrain and use those observations to gain insight into the region's characteristics.

Course Curriculum for Applied Geology

The courses in applied geology have been designed to equip students with the necessary competencies needed to excel in their field, from the evaluation and innovation of complex numerical and theoretical problems using a variety of IT and non-IT related methods to seeking employment or pursuing higher education. 

Beneficially, the curriculum provides vocational and research training, enabling the students to gain key employment opportunities in high-demand industries. By completing post-graduation in this course, candidates are equipped with the best possible knowledge that can be put into practice for furthering their academic goals.

M.Sc applied geology curriculum is as follows:

Semester 1	Semester 2
Geochemistry Structural geology Palaeontology Mineralogy, crystal optics and x-ray crystallography Geochemical thermodynamics Lab practicals	Sedimentary petrology Metamorphic petrology Igneous petrology Geomorphology, Remote sensing and GIS Mining geology Lab practical
Semester 3	Semester 4
Solid Earth and exploration geophysics Engineering and groundwater Geology Statistical methods in geology Ore petrology	Stratigraphy and Indian geology Economic geology Geological and geochemical prospecting  Elective for project Mineral fuel resource

 

Curriculum for an M.Tech applied geology course 

Semester I	Semester II
Soil engineering Geotechnical behaviour of earth materials Mining operations and methods Structural geology for site engineering Applied rock mechanics Geotechnical behaviour of earth materials (practical) Soil engineering (practical) Structural geology for site engineering (practical) Applied rock mechanics (practical)	Geotechniques of dams, tunnels and underground space Rock slope engineering Environmental geo-technology Geotechniques of dams, tunnels  Engineering geophysics Underground space practical Geohazard analysis Composite viva-voce Rock slope engineering practical Contaminant hydrogeology Engineering Geophysics Practical Geostatistical methods Remote sensing and GIS Electives
Semester III	Semester IV
Composite viva-voce Industrial training/minor project Seminar/ viva-voce on Industrial training/minor project Seminar and viva-voce on dissertation Teaching assignment evaluation/lab development work Interim dissertation (Lab Work/Field Work)	Dissertation Seminar on dissertation Viva-voce on dissertation Evaluation of teaching assignment/ lab development work

Curriculum for a integrated degree in applied geology is as follows:

Semester 1 and 2	Semester 3
Physics (theory and lab) Chemistry (theory and lab) Mathematics I and II English for communication Electrical technology     Extra academic activity-I Extra academic activity-II Programming and data structures Introduction to manufacturing processes Programming and data structures tutorial and laboratory Engineering drawing and computer graphics Mechanics Electrical technology	Introduction to earth science (theory and lab) Mineralogy Physics of solid earth Palaeontology (theory and lab) Extra academic activity-II
Semester 4	Semester 5
Basic electronics (theory and lab) Science of living system Determinative mineralogy laboratory Structural geology (theory and lab) Environmental science Thermodynamics of geological systems Economics     Extra academic activity-IV Fieldwork	Engineering geology (theory and lab) Geochemistry (theory and lab) Mineral resources (theory and lab) Metamorphic petrology (theory and lab)
Semester 6	Semester 7
Igneous petrology (theory and lab) Sedimentology (theory and lab) Fieldwork (3 weeks) Stratigraphy (theory and lab)	Ore geology (theory and lab) Geophysical prospecting (theory and lab) Advanced structural geology (theory and lab)
Semester 8	Semester 9
Groundwater geology (theory and lab) Applied micropaleontology (theory and lab) Sequence stratigraphy Fieldwork (6 weeks)	Remote sensing Modelling and simulation of geological processes  Summer training/ project/ internships
Semester 10
Project Seminar  Comprehensive viva voce

Top Geology Colleges in India

• IIT Kharagpur
• RTMNU Nagpur
• Allahabad University
• Graphic Era University, Dehradun
• KUK Kurukshetra
• DHSGSU Sagar
• Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh

Are you considering a career in Applied Geology but not sure if it is the right fit for you? Our team of Brainwodners experts can help. We help students provide personalised career counselling tailored to your interests and goals. 

Our experienced team of counsellors will work with you one-on-one to explore different career paths and identify the best options for you. We understand that choosing a career can be a challenging process, and we are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way. 

FAQs on Applied Geology 

Q.1 What is the average salary for some of the positions available in geology?

Ans: The salary for each job position in applied geology can be seen in the table below. It illustrates the potential remuneration one may receive upon completion of their course.

Job position	Average salary (per annum)	Job position	Average salary (per annum)
Researcher	Rs.6 - Rs.7 lakhs	Completions Technologists	Rs.12- Rs.13 lakhs
Seismologists	Rs.7- Rs.8 lakhs	Meteorologist	Rs.2 - Rs.5 lakhs
ONGC Chair Professor	Rs.5 - Rs.6 lakhs	Geologist	Rs.5 - Rs.6 lakhs
Processing Geophysicist	Rs.5 - Rs.6 lakhs	Assistant chemist	Rs.2 - Rs.3 lakhs
Customer Support Engineer	Rs.2 lakhs	Electronics and Communication consultant	Rs.3,12 lakhs
Network planning Engineer	Rs.3 lakhs	Field Test Engineer	Rs.3.7 lakhs
Senior sales manager	Rs.10 lakhs	Technical engineer	Rs.2.5 lakhs

2. What is the scope for Applied Geology in India?

Ans:The scope for applied geology in India is immense. Not only does it have a wide array of uses in agriculture, mining, and construction, but it also has potential applications in urban planning, disaster management, and climate change mitigation.

3. Who employs Applied Geologists in India?

Ans: Various government and private organisations employ Applied Geologists in India. These include departments related to mining, energy, urban development, water supply and conservation, engineering, and public health - among others.

4. What qualifications do I need to become an Applied Geologist in India?

Ans: In order to become an Applied Geologist in India, you need a master's degree in Applied or Environmental Geology or a related field. You may also need additional certification or training depending on the job you want to pursue.