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PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
Final
PART 1: COURSE SUMMARY INFORMATION
Course summary
Final award BSc (Hons) Geology
Intermediate award BSc Geology
Diploma of Higher Education in Geology
Certificate of Higher Education in Geology
Course status Proposed
Awarding body University of Brighton
School Environment and Technology
Location of study/ campus Moulsecoomb
Partner institution(s)
Name of institution Host department Course status
1. SELECT
2.
3.
Admissions
Admissions agency UCAS
Entry requirements Include any progression opportunities into the course.
Check the University’s website for current entry requirements
A Level, UCAS tariff: BBC–CCC. Must include a science subject.
BTEC: DMM-MMM.
International Baccalaureate: 28 points, specified subjects.
Access to HE Diploma: Pass with 60 credits overall. Level 3 units in science required. At least 45 credits at level 3, with 24 credits at merit or above.
GCSE (minimum grade C): At least three subjects including English language, mathematics and a science.
Foundation degree/HND/HNC: May enable direct access to year 2.
For non-native speakers of English: IELTS 6.0 overall, with 6.0 in writing and a minimum of 5.5 in the other elements.
Applicants with non standard qualifications should contact the School office at [email protected]
Check the University’s website for current entry requirements.
Start date (mmm-yy) Normally September
Sept 2020
Mode of study
Mode of study Duration of study (standard) Maximum registration period
Full-time 3 years 8 years
Part-time Other: 6 years 8 years
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Sandwich 4 years 8 years
Distance Select Select
Course codes/categories
UCAS code F600
Contacts
Course Leader (or Course Development Leader)
Dr Laurence Hopkinson
Admissions Tutor Dr Nicholas McGlynn
Examination and Assessment
External Examiner(s) Name Place of work Date tenure expires
Dr Kathryn Moore University of Exeter 30/09/2023
Examination Board(s) (AEB/CEB)
Geography and Geology
Approval and review
Approval date Review date
Validation 1 July 20172
Programme Specification January 20203 January 20214
Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body 1 (if applicable): The Geological Society of London.
February 2012 April 20185
Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body 2 (if applicable):
Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body 3 (if applicable):
1 Date of original validation. 2 Date of most recent periodic review (normally academic year of validation + 5 years). 3 Month and year this version of the programme specification was approved (normally September). 4 Date programme specification will be reviewed (normally approval date + 1 year). If programme specification is applicable to a particular cohort, please state here. 5 Date of most recent review by accrediting/ approving external body.
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PART 2: COURSE DETAILS
AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES
Aims
The aims of the course are:
The aims of the course are to provide students with:
a sound theoretical knowledge, practical skills and field experience in Earth Sciences,
an understanding of the functioning of the Earth as an integrated system,
an awareness of role of Geology in society and its importance to managing and mitigating contemporary environmental issues,
key skills suitable for employment or progression to advanced study.
This is achieved by providing a broad foundation for geological study and opportunities for subsequent specialisation, with students developing geological abilities and knowledge along with more general academic and scientific abilities as they progress through the course. The course provides a strong foundation in practical skills such as rock description, logging, geological mapping, engineering and environmental geology, as well as a strong field-based culture in all the topics in geology. The course also seeks to closely link an understanding of Earth systems to topical issues and scenarios. Specialised modules available at Level 6 include Petrology and Geochemistry, Basin Analysis and Advanced GIS and remote sensing.
Learning outcomes
The outcomes of the main award provide information about how the primary aims are demonstrated by students following the course. These are mapped to external reference points where appropriate6.
Knowledge and theory The progressive development of knowledge and understanding is an important feature of the degree programme. Competence in Geology requires the early development of skills in three-dimensional visualization, concepts of geological time and understanding of mineral and rock forming processes. The level 4 is designed to introduce and develop these skills and concepts, while Levels 5 and 6 build on this foundation by studying major topics in greater depth, as well as introducing new areas of study. Class-based teaching is complemented and reinforced through fieldwork including five residential field courses.
All students take five compulsory Geology modules (coded GG) in Levels 4, alongside one optional module (20 credits) from either Physical geography, chemistry or biology. At level 5 all six GG modules are compulsory (Table 1). At Level 6, the extent to which individual students develop understanding of particular areas varies depending upon module selection beyond the compulsory modules.
On successful completion of the course the graduate should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following areas:
1. The principles underpinning geological science, geological time, internal and earth surface processes;
2. Description and identification of minerals, rocks and ores, and the use of mineralogy and rock textures to interpret conditions under which they formed;
3. The processes of evolution of life on Earth and relationship to changing environmental conditions;
4. Three dimensional visualization of geological structures at all scales and the architecture of the Earth
6 Please refer to Course Development and Review Handbook or QAA website for details.
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5. The application of geological science to major Earth issues including resources, groundwater, geohazards and construction;
6. The issues surrounding contemporary environmental problems and approaches to their management;
7. The operation and use of geological tools and techniques for data acquisition, analysis and interpretation.
Skills Includes intellectual skills (i.e. generic skills relating to academic study, problem solving, evaluation, research etc.) and professional/ practical skills.
A strong theme of skills development runs throughout the degree programme, including a number of compulsory modules (particularly at levels 4 and 5) in which development of key skills is embedded. Level 4 introduces a range of core intellectual, discipline-specific and transferable skills including basic study skills, group work, Information Technology and presentation skills, field and laboratory skills, quantitative and qualitative methods, and the collection, interpretation and synthesis of geological data. Basic fieldwork skills are developed in with direct link to taught material in GG496 and GG497, so that fundamental theory is directly linked to practice. This principle of linking fieldwork to taught material is continued throughout the course (GG596; GG556 GG597; GG696) In Levels 4 and 6, optional modules in geography or in other sciences or in languages allow students to develop additional knowledge and transferable skills.
All these skills are developed and enhanced at Level 5, together with a greater emphasis on research skills, professional practice, fieldwork, and problem-solving. The residential field course in Anglesey is integrated with classroom and laboratory teaching in structural geology (GG597), and is designed specifically to provide training in geological mapping and interpretation of structural geology. A key feature of Level 5 is the development of job-seeking skills as part of the University's Careers Planning Agreement, and via GG575 (Professional Geoscience). This is extended into Level 6 with provision of a specific professional practice exercise, integrated with teaching in exploration geology (GG616). At Level 6, the development of research skills culminates in the Geological Mapping Dissertations (GG690), along with the development of a deeper understanding of the construction and nature of geological knowledge.
Throughout the degree programme, the following intellectual, discipline-specific and transferable skills are developed. The extent to which individual students develop particular skills varies depending upon module selection beyond the compulsory modules taken at Levels 4 to 6.
Intellectual skills
On successful completion of the course the graduate should be able to:
1. develop a reasoned and critical argument through the integration and interpretation of primary and secondary materials;
2. generate appropriate scientific research questions and to identify and use appropriate methods in reaching and reporting conclusions;
3. synthesise and evaluate evidence, ideas and theories within a variety of geological contexts;
4. undertake a deep approach to learning and understanding; 5. recognise the need for professional codes of conduct in Earth
Science, and the role of the discipline in providing knowledge and understanding of both exploitation and conservation of Earth resources.
Discipline-specific skills
On successful completion of the course the graduate should be able to:
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1. collect, interpret, synthesise and present different types of geological data;
2. work safely and effectively in laboratory and field contexts; 3. understand the basic theoretical, philosophical and methodological
issues relating to scientific research; 4. understand the role of Earth Science in society, and in managing and
mitigating contemporary environmental issues and problems; 5. understand the concept of, and importance of, sustainability in the
management of Earth resources; 6. Independently carryout a geological mapping programme (including
logistical and health and safety aspects) as a tool to investigate the geological evolution of an area , and to present the findings as a project report using reasoned argument to draw clear conclusions.
Transferable skills
On successful completion of the course the graduate should be able to:
1. communicate ideas and arguments effectively in writing, verbally, and graphically;
2. collect, record, analyse and present data of various forms using appropriate analytical techniques;
3. learn and study independently, to take responsibility for the management of independent investigation and learning, and to plan time effectively;
4. work and communicate effectively as part of a team; 5. demonstrate competence in the use of appropriate IT packages to
find, explore, develop and present numbers, text and images; 6. use appropriate techniques for job-seeking and information
acquisition for life-long learning; 7. demonstrate an appreciation of the broader environmental,
professional and academic contexts of their learning.
QAA subject benchmark statement (where applicable)7
Earth Science, Environmental Science and Environmental Studies
PROFESSIONAL, STATUTORY AND REGULATORY BODIES (where applicable)
Where a course is accredited by a PSRB, full details of how the course meets external requirements, and what students are required to undertake, are included.
The BSc (Hons) Geology course is accredited by The Geological Society of London (Geol Soc) which undertakes 6-yearly reappraisals of course content to ensure compliance with their requirements. For the most recent reappraisal, documentation was submitted in January 2018 and approval granted in April 2018.
The number of days of fieldwork, and types of fieldwork undertaken, are important for accreditation purposes. Geol Soc specifies a minimum number of fieldwork days (60) for an accredited BSc Honours Geology course, and the course team designed the degree programme to meet this requirement. The field course are embedded in the program and linked to class room and laboratory teaching in GG496, GG497, GG595, GG597 and GG696. To meet the stipulations, all five residential field courses are compulsory and Geology students must undertake 30 days of geological fieldwork as part of their Geological Mapping Dissertations (module GG690). In cases where students have specific learning support plans, fieldwork may be substituted by other activities that meet the learning outcomes.
Mathematics and statistics are important aspects of the course that are monitored by the Geol Soc and again, the minimum requirements are stipulated. For example, basic calculus must be included in the provision, which is delivered in compulsory module GG476. Mathematics provision is mapped against
7 Please refer to the QAA website for details.
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modules across all three years of the degree programme. The accrediting body also stipulate training in geochemical and geophysical techniques, and this requirement is met by ensuring that all students take the year 3 module Exploration Geology and Professional Practice (GG616).
LEARNING AND TEACHING
Learning and teaching methods
This section sets out the primary learning and teaching methods, including total learning hours and any specific requirements in terms of practical/ clinical-based learning. The indicative list of learning and teaching methods includes information on the proportion of the course delivered by each method and details where a particular method relates to a particular element of the course.
Students typically take the equivalent of 6 modules per year. A module is designed to comprise 200 hours total learning time and is typically studied over a 15 week semester. A typical 20 credit module comprises a combination of tutor-led contact sessions and guided independent study (including time spent in preparing and completing assessment tasks). A broad range of teaching methods is employed to meet the intellectual, academic and professional objectives of the course whilst ensuring a diverse need of students. These include lectures, tutorials, seminars, case studies, laboratory classes and practical classes, fieldwork, flipped learning, student-centred IT projects, workshops, computer modelling/simulation, practical classes and both individual and group project work. In addition, the multifaceted aspects of the application of engineering, information technology and computing form a continuing theme throughout the course.
The general learning approach in the common first year is for individual students to be encouraged and supported to achieve their learning potential and develop their confidence through tutor-led learning. The learning progressively becomes student-centred towards the later stages of their course, whereby students are able to operate in complex and unpredictable contexts, requiring selection and application from a range of standard techniques and information sources. Furthermore, a greater choice of modules is available in the final year for the students to enable specialism in their areas of interest such as geochemistry, palaeontology, petrology, basin analysis and GIS.
Key features of our learning and teaching methodology are:
Enquiry and Research led Learning
Enquiry and research led learning pedagogies are at the heart of student learning throughout the course. The high level of fieldwork in the geology curriculum supports this throughout the programme, where residential field course are embedded in the taught programme and provide students opportunity to apply their learning to solving real geological problems. All field courses follow a similar format of guided study of individual sites and areas, with students carrying out their own investigations with support from staff, followed by 1-2 days of supervised independent work investigating the geological evolution of an area through the medium of geological mapping and data collection. This approach is further developed through the GG616 Professional Practice exercise, and the Geological Mapping Dissertations (GG690). The development of practical understanding and application of geological principles is thus embedded throughout the course. Staff benefit from links with the Higher Education Academy’s GEES (Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences) Subject Centre, and individual staff have undertaken GEES-supported pedagogic research on tools to support teaching of Geology at university level.
Research Informed Teaching
The BSc Geology course is delivered by research-active academic staff, and specialist aspects of the curriculum reflect the research interests of these staff. For example, the modules in GG611 Tectonic Geomorphology, GG638 Ore Systems are taught by staff who have a track record of publications in these fields. This level of integration is particularly true for final year Dissertations, where students spend an extended period of time undertaking research with one member of staff. Students are assisted and encouraged throughout the course to develop their own research skills, starting with level 4 modules and culminating in the final year Dissertations. Specialist research skills sessions are scheduled in the second and third years to support their independent work for the Dissertations.
Formative Assessment and Feedback
Formative assessments play an important role within the learning and teaching on this course. Students are able to practise their learning through the formative assessments in each module, such as mock exams, online quizzes, weekly tutorial exercises with feedback, facilitated group discussions, etc, which
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do not count towards the final mark, but provide a safe environment for students to evaluate their strengths and areas of development through feedback received on such assessments.
Staff and Student working in Partnership
Throughout the course, staff and students work together to develop learning activities to suit the diverse need of students. Students’ feedback on the course through module and course evaluations are obtained systematically throughout the course and informs continual curriculum development and enhancement. This information also assists (at module level) to plan and design learning activities suitable for the cohort needs. Examples of these include GG575 where students work on selection job adverts and then take part in mock interviews as both candidate and panel member, and GG690 where Dissertations concepts are developed in collaboration with a member of staff. Specific examples in GG690 include students who developed industry links to support their Dissertations and then work with staff and industry supervisors to ensure the Dissertations meets university and PSRB requirements.
Diversity, Inclusivity and Blended Learning:
Consideration of diversity and inclusivity is embedded throughout the curriculum primarily through a range of learning and teaching activities adopted at each Level, practice based learning, and group work (whereby students are provided with safe spaces in tutorials and seminars to share their own interests, backgrounds and opinions). Strong emphasis on formative assessments and coursework helps to cater for the needs of students from diverse backgrounds whilst ensuring transparency and equality. Group work is fully embedded in all field courses, and is fundamental part of the GG616 professional practice exercise.
Blended learning is another mean to enhance diversity and inclusivity, which is strongly embedded within the courses. All modules within the course are complemented with online digital space which is a means to engage student peers and staff outside of contact time. The combination of lectures and seminars with practical laboratory work and field work is core to geology, and is supplemented through computer based exercises specifically in GY571, GG616 and GY671. A key aspect of inclusivity in the courses is allowing students to chose between modes of assessment at least once per level. This is included in modules GG416, GG575 and GG616.
Visiting Lecturers
A number of research and consultancy activities provide both scholarly and direct support for the undergraduate programme. Visiting lecturers from a range of geological industries are included in the research and career skills provision (GG575) in order to dicuss career pathways with students. Visiting lecturers also contribute case study sessions for GG616 Exploration Geology and Professional Practice, and are invited to be part of the panel on the final Dissertations appraisal reporting in the professional practice exercise. Students are also actively encourage to attend the school research seminar series.
Education for Sustainable Development
The University of Brighton is committed to the principles of sustainable development. Aspects of Geology are central to identifying and providing scientific solutions to current and future problems. For example, understanding the debate about anthropogenic-induced climate change requires knowledge of the rate and extent of natural variations in climate in the past, which can be interpreted from geological records. Remediation of anthropogenic damage to the environment, for example from past mining and mineral processing activities, involve methods based on applications of geochemistry and mineralogy (GG436; GG536; GG657).
Module GG616 Exploration Geology and Professional Practice is used as the ‘flagship’ for education on sustainability in the Geology course. The case studies used in the intensive study component of this module involve either an underground investigation of the sustainability of aquifer recharge using municipal wastewater, or development of a mineral exploration programme with due regard to societal and environmental impacts. Students are also involved in a role-play ‘public meeting’ where issues of social and environmental responsibility are discussed in the context of long-term sustainability and the need for site investigation processes that may cause short-term damage to the natural and human environment.
Graduates in Geology are thus well equipped to make a significant contribution to ensuring that future generations not only have an equivalent quality of life, but are likely to have an improved one.
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Employability Skills:
Preparing students for professional life and the associated skills are an important feature of this course. These skills relate to the University of Brighton Graduate Toolkit and are embedded throughout the curriculum in various module that are mapped for each module in the Module Briefs, which are available to students through student central (University of Brighton Virtual Learning Environment). The module GG575 specifically address career skills through career development seminars from invited speakers from different geological industries, and through a job application and interview exercise. The professional practice aspect of GG616 is also designed to give students specific experience of employment scenarios and develop working and interpersonal skills.
Module Specifications
Each module specification includes the learning and teaching strategy for that module. The strategy for each module is designed by the module team with due regards to the needs of the student and then presented and justified to the ‘Area’. Each student’s programme thus possesses a learning and teaching approach that arises from the composition of the individual module strategies. The learning and teaching strategy for each module is reviewed and revised where necessary through a process of module review following each completion of delivery. Revisions are undertaken in response to student performance, student views, external examiners’ advice and dissemination of educational research, innovative development and industrial and professional evolution.
Lectures, Tutorials and Case Studies
Formal lectures provide the essence of the required body of knowledge and to guide the students in their personal study. The lecture material is reinforced through the tutorial system in which the students are given problems to solve which address all the various aspects of theory and its application to the design process. Case study material is used across all subject disciplines to highlight particular aspects of geological theory and practice. Much of the case study material is drawn from lecturers' previous experiences in professional practice and their current activities in research.
Laboratories
The School has well-established laboratories in which the students are given practical experience in carrying out directed fundamental experimental work to test the tenets of geological science. Laboratory based work is embedded in GG436, GG536, and GG636.
Field Courses
Fieldwork is absolutely fundamental to geology and the numbers of days spent in the field, and fieldwork based learning outcomes are specified by the PSRB (the Geological Society of London). Residential fieldwork is part of GG496, GG497, GG595, GG597 and GG696, where it is used for students to learn to apply learning from the taught course to practical scenarios. It is the prime vehicle in the geology programme to develop enquiry-based learning, research skills and group working skills through the medium of guided interpretation of geological sections and geological mapping.
Coursework
Many modules throughout the course have significant coursework content. The inclusion of such items as design appraisals, open-ended laboratory investigations, essays, presentations and technical reports brings variety and added relevance to the teaching of geology. Well-designed coursework also promotes student involvement and enthusiasm whilst enabling the student to develop investigative and organisational capabilities.
Computing
This has been an area of rapid development in education as well as in many areas of geology. The speed and convenience of computer software can be used to enhance and expand the understanding of fundamentals whilst also providing a medium for improving methods of design and analysis. Commercial and academic software is now used within all subject disciplines.
Student use of word processors, spreadsheets and electronic sources of information (such as networked databases and the Internet) is encouraged as their use enables them to improve their organisational and presentational skills. Open access to this software is available for students in a variety of locations throughout the University.
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Geographical Information Systems are now the main route for the presentation of spatial data in geoscientific disciplines. All students are required to undertake GY571 GIS and remote sensing at Level 5 of their studies, and they have opportunity to develop this as a specialist area at Level 6 via the module GG671 Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing. Industrial software for the geological interpretation of geophysical data is also introduced in GG616 Exploration Geology and Professional Practice.
Individual Dissertations
All final year students are required to undertake the GG690: Geological Mapping Dissertation module. This is equivalent to a 40-credit module, taken over two semesters, with an average allocation of 13 hours equivalent study per week. This is a substantially independent research Dissertations negotiated, designed and completed in collaboration with an academic tutor. The PSRB requires for a single honours geology programme that this should be based around the production of a geological map and include 28 days of independent fieldwork.
These dissertations give students a choice of subject matter. Staff suggest a range of potential study areas, with varying geology to allow for a range of interests. Students are then required to develop their own mapping programme including consideration of logistics, health and safety and work plan. The dissertation based on this fieldwork then includes literature review, interpretation of the geological evolution of the area and the development of further research questions.
Variation in the dissertation type can be considered in consultation with staff in relation to student needs and requirements. This includes the development of industry linked Dissertationss for student who secure relevant summer placement work.
ASSESSMENT
Assessment methods
This section sets out the summative assessment methods on the course and includes details on where to find further information on the criteria used in assessing coursework. It also provides an assessment matrix which reflects the variety of modes of assessment, and the volume of assessment in the course.
The information included in this section complements that found in the Key Information Set (KIS), with the programme specification providing further information about how the course is assessed.
A variety of forms of assessment are used on the course to assess students’ knowledge and skills. Inclusivity and diversity is embedded within the assessment strategy. Students are given choice on the type of assessment within an appropriate field of different but equivalent assessment task types at least once during each level of study for example in modules GG416, GG575, and GG616.
The following definitions are included within the Geography and Geology Division Skills Handbook issued to all students:
Examination/Test (including open book, seen and unseen examinations): a demonstration of knowledge, understanding, analytical skill and ability to apply knowledge.
Essay: a demonstration of understanding and analytical and written communication skills.
Dissertation (including individual, group work and Geology mapping): a demonstration of independent research skills and written communication skills.
Report (including laboratory reports and field reports): a demonstration of reporting and written communication skills. Laboratory reports additionally demonstrate laboratory skills whilst field reports demonstrate field and group research skills.
Seminar presentation: a demonstration of knowledge, understanding, verbal communication, presentation skills, and ability to respond to questioning.
Poster presentation: a demonstration of knowledge, understanding, and written and visual communication skills.
Other methods including map interpretation, PowerPoint presentation, web page design and
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group debates.
Certain transferable skills, such as self-motivation and communication, are embedded within the primary modes of delivery of learning and may not be separately assessed. However, satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes requires that such skills are developed to an appropriate level.
Coursework schedules are published at the start of the academic year to ensure that students are able to plan their time in order to manage the completion of assessments to deadlines.
Students are made aware of the assessment requirements of the course through the Module, Course and Skills Handbooks issued at the outset. These are also available on the student Intranet system. Module tutors at the start of each semester confirm the assessment requirements. Detailed descriptions of the criteria on which students will be assessed are confirmed by tutors in relation to the specific piece of assessment and the Skills Handbook contains similar detail in relation to overall degree class criteria. Students receive regular feedback on performance through module and personal tutors. Whenever possible, feedback on course work will be returned to students within three weeks of the handing-in dates to provide feedback, and to improve and motivate learning. All students are required to see personal tutors at the beginning of each semester to overview performance in the previous semester.
Learning Outcome Assessment method Module Number of credits
The principles underpinning geological science, geological time concepts, internal and earth surface processes
Examination/Test, Essay, Seminar presentation, Portfolio, Report, Practical worksheets, Laboratory coursework
GG496, GG436, GG595, GG556, GG536, GG597, GG696, GG657
160
Description and identification of minerals, rocks and ores, and the use of mineralogy and rock textures to interpret conditions under which they formed
Examination/Test, Report, Practical worksheets, Laboratory coursework
GG436, GG536, GG597, GG556, GG636,
100
The processes of evolution of life on Earth and relationship to changing environmental conditions
Examination/Test, Essay, Seminar presentation, Laboratory coursework
GG416, GG556, GG611,
60
Three dimensional visualization of geological structures at all scales and the architecture of the Earth
Examination/Test, Map Test, Report, Field notebook, Practical worksheets
GG496, GG497, GG595, GG597,
GG696, GG616, GY671, GG690
200
The application of geological science to major Earth issues including earth resources, groundwater, geohazards and construction
Examination/Test, Essay, Poster presentation, Portfolio, Report, Practical worksheets
GG416, GG536, GG556, GG638
80
The issues surrounding contemporary environmental problems and approaches to their management
Examination/Test, Seminar presentation, Report, Practical worksheets
GG416, GG575, GG616,
60
The operation and use of geological tools and techniques for data acquisition, analysis and interpretation
Seminar presentation, Portfolio, Report, Field notebook, Practical worksheets, Laboratory coursework
GG496, GG497, GG476, GG595, GG597, GG616
120
Develop a reasoned and critical argument through the integration and interpretation of primary and secondary materials
Examination/Test, Dissertations, Seminar presentation, Portfolio, Report, Bibliographic writing exercise
GG416, GG556, GG595, GG536, GG696, GG690
120
Generate appropriate scientific Dissertations, Seminar GG496, GG497, 80
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research questions and to identify and use appropriate methods in reaching and reporting conclusions
presentation, Poster presentation, Report
GG575, GG690
Synthesise and evaluate evidence, ideas and theories within a variety of geological contexts
Examination/Test, Essay, Dissertations, Seminar presentation, Portfolio, Report
all modules but especially: GG416, G595, GG696, GG690
80
Undertake a deep approach to learning and understanding
Dissertations, Seminar presentation
all modules but especially:
GG575, GG690,
60
Recognise the need for professional codes of conduct in Earth Science, and the role of the disciplines in providing knowledge and understanding of both exploitation and conservation of Earth resources
Examination/Test, Seminar presentation, Poster presentation, Portfolio, Report
GG575, GG616, 40
Collect, interpret, synthesise and present different types of geological data
Examination/Test, Essay, Dissertations, Seminar presentation, Field notebook, Report, Field map, Laboratory coursework
all modules but especially: GG496, GG497, GG476, GG595, GG597, GG690 GG616
160
Work safely and effectively in laboratory and field contexts
Dissertations, Seminar presentation, Report, Risk assessment
GG496, GG497, GG436, GG595, GG597, GG536, GG556, GG690
180
Understand the basic theoretical, philosophical and methodological issues relating to scientific research
Examination/Test, Dissertations, Group presentation, Poster presentation, Portfolio, Report
GG496, GG416, GG575, GG690
100
Understand the role of Earth Science in society, and in managing and mitigating contemporary environmental issues and problems
Examination/Test, Essay, Group presentation, Poster presentation, Portfolio, Report, Laboratory coursework
GG416, GG575, GG616,
60
Understand the concept of, and importance of, sustainability in the management of Earth resources
Examination/Test, Portfolio, Laboratory coursework
GG416, GG575, GG616,
60
Identify a geological topic or issue, to investigate it through an appropriately planned, designed and implemented research Dissertations, and to present the findings as Dissertations report using reasoned argument to draw clear conclusions
Dissertations, Individual presentation, Poster presentation, Report
GG416, GG575, GG690
80
Communicate ideas and arguments effectively in writing, verbally, and graphically
Examination/Test, Dissertations, Group presentation, Individual presentation, Poster presentation, Portfolio, Report
all modules but especially:
GG496, GG497, GG416, GG556, GG575, GG616, GG690
160
Collect, record, analyse and present data of various forms
Examination/Test, Dissertations, Group
GG496, GG497, GY571, GG575,
140
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using appropriate analytical techniques
presentation, Field Map, Field notebook, Laboratory coursework, Report
GG690, GY671
Learn and study independently, to take responsibility for the management of independent investigation and learning, and to plan time effectively
Essay, Dissertations, Group presentation, Individual presentation, Poster presentation, Map report, Field notebook, Report
all modules but especially:
GG575, GG690
60
Work and communicate effectively as part of a team
Dissertations, Group presentation, Poster presentation, Field map, Report
GG595, GY597, GG616
60
Demonstrate competence in the use of appropriate IT packages to find, explore, develop and present numbers, text and images
Examination/Test, Dissertations, Individual presentation, Group presentation, Poster presentation
GG416, GG476, GY571, GG616, GY671
100
Use appropriate techniques for job-seeking and information acquisition for life-long learning
Individual presentation, Report GG575, GG616 40
Demonstrate an appreciation of the broader environmental, professional and academic contexts of their learning
Examination/Test, Dissertations, Group presentation, Individual presentation, Poster presentation, Portfolio, Report
all modules but especially:
GG575, GG616
40
SUPPORT AND INFORMATION
Institutional/ University All students benefit from:
University induction week
Student Handbook: the University and you
Course Handbook
Extensive library facilities
Computer pool rooms (indicate number of workstations by site)
E-mail address
Welfare service
Personal tutor for advice and guidance
Course-specific Additional support, specifically where courses have non-traditional patterns of delivery (e.g. distance learning and work-based learning) include:
In addition, students on this course benefit from:
Please refer to information held in student central.
Handbooks and Guidance Notes
BSc (Hons) Geology Course Handbook
Geography & Geology Division Module Handbook
Geography & Geology Division Skills Handbook
Geology Dissertations Handbook
Guidance Notes for Fieldwork and Laboratory Safety
Placement Guidelines
Academic and Administrative Support
Course Leader who monitors academic and personal progress of
students on the course
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Personal Tutor for providing academic advice, personal guidance,
and references to support applications for employment / further
education
School of Environment and Technology Student Support Tutor (SST)
service that provides confidential and non-judgemental support and
advice to students across a range of academic, personal, financial
and other issues. Provides direct support through informal drop in
sessions and one-to-one meetings and guidance on accessing
further help.
University Intranet (‘student central’) that hosts supplementary
learning resources in support of modules as well as providing links to
additional resources
School administrative support for module registration and transcripts
of results
Student Services and Geography & Geology Division Placement
Support officers
Students on placement normally receive a planned visit from a
designated Placement Tutor to support learning and progress in the
workplace
Library-based Course Resources Officer who works with staff and
students to enable access to paper-based and electronic resources
School of Environment and Technology Computing Officer who
works with staff and students to enable access to, and use of,
Information Technology facilities
Specialist Facilities
School of Environment and Technology Computer Suites, containing
165 networked terminals running GIS, Remote Sensing and Image
Analysis software (ArcGIS, MultiSpec, ImageJ, ENVI). Other
available includes AutoCad, Adobe Photoshop, Dreamweaver,
Matlab, Microsoft Office, MiniTab, Pertmaster, Rhino, Solidworks,
etc.
Dedicated Geology Laboratory, with interactive screens, visualizer
and twin projectors; 85+ petrological teaching microscopes, 2 Meiji
petrological microscopes with reflected light, 20 Motic
stereomicroscopes; extensive rock, mineral and fossil samples, ore
deposit sample suites, and extensive collection of rock thin sections
Research quality Nikon stereomicroscope; 3 Nikon petrological
microscopes with SLR attachment and 1 with video attachment;
Leica petrological microscope with image analysis software
Soil and Water Analysis Laboratory, with muffle furnace, analytical
balances, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, ICP-MS, ICP-OES, Total
Organic Carbon Analyser, Gas Chromatographs, Ion
Chromotograph, pH meters and experimental cells for experimental
work into the electro-kinetics of contaminated sediments
Soil and Sediment Analysis Laboratory, with drying ovens, sediment
sieving facilities, Oertling top pan balances, Malvern Mastersizer
2000 laser particle size analyser; constant and falling head
permeameters, and triaxial cells for permeability and failure analysis
Fluid inclusion analysis microscope with heating and freezing stage
Equipment for solid-state geochemical analysis: Energy-dispersive X-
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Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer and sample preparation equipment;
Portable X-Ray Fluorescence metals analysers for field- and lab-
based rapid analyses
Equipment for bulk mineralogical analysis: X-Ray Diffraction
Spectrometer (Panalytical X’Pert Pro)
Scanning Electron Microscopy facility with dedicated technician
support
Equipment for field-based geophysical surveying: Geonics EM31
ground conductivity meter; Geomatrix Gamma Surveyor field gamma
ray spectrometer, Magnetic Gradiometer
Hydraulics Laboratory, with Gunt 10m x 0.4m recirculating flume with sediment transport system and interchangeable weirs, wave tank with adjustable beach and programmable wave paddle, 5m x 4m river basin for river/floodplain simulation, 2 x 2m flumes with interchangeable weirs.
Environmental Simulation Laboratory with 6m x 4m hydraulic stream table Surveying equipment consisting of 30 total stations, 30 quickset levels, 3 dGPS systems, 25 hand held GPS and a Leica 3d scanner with dedicated technical support
Field collection equipment including, corers, automatic water samplers, geophysical monitoring equipment, water quality probes, air quality probes, soil kits, spades, trowels;
Dedicated department 4x4 field vehicle and van.
Data recording equipment (sound and video).
PART 3: COURSE SPECIFIC REGULATIONS
COURSE STRUCTURE
This section includes an outline of the structure of the programme, including stages of study and progression points. Course Leaders may choose to include a structure diagram here.
Level 4.
Semester 1
GG496 Fundamentals of Geology
GG436
Earth Materials
GG476
Quantitative geoscience
GG416
The Earth and Ocean
System
Option from:
GY411
GY431
BY151 Semester 2
GG497 Geological Visualisation
Level 5.
Semester 1
GG595 Global Tectonics
GG536 Petrology and geochemistry
GG575 Professional Geoscience
GG556 Palaeoenvironments
GG597 Structural Geology
GY571 GIS and remote sensing
Optional Placement Year. GY680.
Level 6
Semester 1
GG696 Dynamic Earth
(Incorporating 1 week Cyprus field course)
Choice of 40 credits from
GY671 Advanced GIS and Remote sensing
GG657 Basin Analysis
GG638 Ore systems.
GG690 Geological Mapping Dissertations
40 credits Semester 2
GG616 Exploration geology and
GG636 Petrogenesis.
GG611 Tectonic
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Professional Practice.
Geomorphology
GY633 Cold environments and environmental change
Modules
Optional modules listed are indicative only and may be subject to change, depending on timetabling and staff availability
Status:
M = Mandatory (modules which must be taken and passed to be eligible for the award)
C = Compulsory (modules which must be taken to be eligible for the award)
O = Optional (optional modules)
A = Additional (modules which must be taken to be eligible for an award accredited by a professional, statutory or regulatory body, including any non-credit bearing modules)
Optional modules listed are indicative only and may be subject to change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.
Level8
Module code
Status Module title Credit
4 GG496 C Fundamentals of geology 20
4 GG497 C Geological Visualisation 20
4 GG436 C Earth Materials 20
4 GG476 C Quantitative Geoscience 20
4 GG416 C The Earth and Ocean System 20
4 GY411 O Fundamentals of Physical Geography 20
4 GY431 O Global Environmental Issues 20
4 BY151 O Diversity of Life 20
5 GG596 C Global Tectonics 20
5 GG597 C Structural geology 20
5 GG536 C Petrology and geochemistry 20
5 GG575 C Professional Geoscience 20
5 GG556 C Palaeoenvironments 20
5 GY571 C GIS and remote sensing 20
6 GG696 C Dynamic Earth 20
6 GG616 C Exploration geology and professional practice 20
6 GG611 O Tectonic Geomorphology 20
6 GG638 O Ore Systems 20
6 GG657 O Basin Analysis 20
6 GG636 O Petrogenesis 20
6 GG690 C Geological Mapping Dissertation 40
6 GY671 O Advanced GIS and remote sensing 20
6 GY633 O Frozen Planet 20
6 GY680 O Sandwich Year Placement 20
Language modules may be taken alongside the core degree programme.
8 All modules have learning outcomes commensurate with the FHEQ levels 0, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. List the level which corresponds with the learning outcomes of each module.
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AWARD AND CLASSIFICATION
Award type Award* Title Level Eligibility for award Classification of award
Total credits9 Minimum credits10 Ratio of marks11: Class of award
Final BSc (hons)
Geology 6 Total credit 360 Minimum credit at level of award Other: 90
Levels 5 and 6 (25:75) Honours degree
Final BSc (hons)
Geology (Sandwich mode) 6 Total credit Other: 380 Minimum credit at level of award Other: 90
Levels 5 and 6 (25:75) Honours degree
Final BSc Geology 6 Total credit Other: 320 Minimum credit at level of award 60
Levels 5 and 6 (25:75) Not applicable
Intermediate DipHE Geology 5 Total credit 240 Minimum credit at level of award 120
Level 5 marks Select
Intermediate CertHE Geology 4 Total credit 120 Minimum credit at level of award 120
Level 4 marks Select
*Foundation degrees only
Progression routes from award:
Award classifications Mark/ band % Foundation degree Honours degree Postgraduate12 degree (excludes PGCE and BM BS)
70% - 100% Distinction First (1) Distinction
60% - 69.99% Merit Upper second (2:1) Merit
50% - 59.99% Pass
Lower second (2:2) Pass
40% - 49.99% Third (3)
9 Total number of credits required to be eligible for the award. 10 Minimum number of credits required, at level of award, to be eligible for the award. 11 Algorithm used to determine the classification of the final award (all marks are credit-weighted). For a Masters degree, the mark for the final element (e.g, dissertation) must be in the corresponding class of award. 12 Refers to taught provision: PG Cert, PG Dip, Masters.
Document template revised: 2010 Page 17 of 17
EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS
Please refer to the Course Approval and Review Handbook when completing this section.
The examination and assessment regulations for the course should be in accordance with the University’s General Examination and Assessment Regulations for Taught Courses (available from staffcentral or studentcentral).
Specific regulations which materially affect assessment, progression and award on the course e.g. Where referrals or repeat of modules are not permitted in line with the University’s General Examination and Assessment Regulations for Taught Courses.
The course regulations are in line with the University of Brighton General Examination and Assessment Regulations (GEAR). In addition, the following course-specific regulations apply:
Placement modules (GY680) are optional, for which the student has a free choice of whether to register or not. If the student takes up the placement then the module must be included in the algorithm for calculation of the final award. Whilst the University will provide assistance and support, it remains the responsibility of students who select this module to find suitable placement.
Students may be permitted to study up to one module, usually other than those which are a normal component of the course, either one Level above or one Level below current Level of study.
.
Exceptions required by PSRB These require the approval of the Chair of the Academic Board
The BSc (Hons) Geology degree is accredited by the Geological Society of London. The modules that a student following the course should study in order to meet accreditation requirements are described in the Programme Structure section (above).
