Exploration Geology (BSc)
Discover how Earth’s processes have created natural resources and how to explore for them to meet future demand.
Programme overview
People have been using Earth’s natural resources like metals, minerals, oil and gas for centuries to build our towns and cities, power our homes, and make the vehicles, devices and tools that we depend on. New resources are increasingly hard to find, and specialist skills and technology are required to locate and use them responsibly.
On the Exploration Geology (BSc) including foundation programme, you will develop skills in data analysis, confident decision making and fieldwork, both above and underground. Through specialist exploration modules and practical classes, students will learn to characterise minerals and experience modern software and datasets used by professionals in the sector.
All students will gain an introduction to the environmental, social and governance factors affecting the exploration industry and can choose sustainability-focused modules on topics such as hazard resilience and environmental geology as options.
Tuition fees
| Fee | Programme start date | |
|---|---|---|
| Fee for Kazakhstani students | US$16,000 per year | September 2026 |
| Fee for international students | US$18,000 per year | September 2026 |
Entry requirements
To enter this three-year undergraduate degree programme you will need:
- A-level grades BBC with one science subject, or BCC with two science subjects. GCSE Maths grade C/4.
- a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no component below 5.5) or an equivalent proof of English proficiency such as TOEFL or the Cardiff University English Language Test.
Academic qualifications listed are UK GCSE and A-Levels, however alternative qualifications at this level will also be considered.
Modules
Year one (60 ECTS)
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| World of Dynamic Environments | 10 ECTS |
| Exploring Planet Earth | 10 ECTS |
| GIS, Maps and Analytical Skills | 10 ECTS |
| Earth Science Fieldwork | 10 ECTS |
| Earth Materials | 10 ECTS |
| Life and Earth History | 10 ECTS |
Year two (60 ECTS)
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Applied Geological Fieldwork, Data Analysis and Professional Skills | 20 ECTS |
| Sedimentary facies and environments | 10 ECTS |
| Petrology and Volcanology | 10 ECTS |
| Structural Geology and Geophysical Investigation | 10 ECTS |
| Applied Environmental and Resource Geology | 10 ECTS |
Year three (60 ECTS)
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Mineral Deposit Exploration and Evaluation | 10 ECTS |
| Exploration Geology Dissertation | 20 ECTS |
Optional modules
In year three, students will also select 30 ECTS credits from a range of optional modules, including:
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Advanced Environmental Geology | 10 ECTS |
| Petroleum, Geoenergy and Basin Analysis | 10 ECTS |
| Advanced Petrology and Geochemistry | 10 ECTS |
| Geodynamics | 5 ECTS |
| Hazards, Risk and Resilience | 5 ECTS |
Apply now
Apply for Exploration Geology (BSc) at Cardiff University Kazakhstan:
Our Admissions Team is available to help if you have any questions. Contact us on admissionskz@cardiff.edu.kz if you need help with your application.