The M.Sc (Master of Science) in Geology is a two-year postgraduate programme pursued after completing an undergraduate degree in geology or earth sciences. It helps students understand the structure of the Earth, rocks, minerals, and natural processes.
Students learn how the Earth was formed, what lies beneath its surface, and how natural resources are explored and managed.
Subjects Covered
The programme typically includes:
- Mineralogy & Crystal Physics
- Structural Geology & Petrology
- Sedimentary & Metamorphic Geology
- Geomorphology
- Geophysics
- Remote Sensing & GIS
- Hydrogeology & Environmental Geology
- Field Mapping & Geological Fieldwork
Course Duration & Structure
Duration: 2 years
Semesters: 4
Includes theory, practicals, and compulsory field training
Eligibility Criteria
- B.Sc degree with Geology as a core subject
- Minimum 50–60% aggregate
- Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC candidates (as per university norms)
Admission Process
Merit-based in some state and central universities
Through entrance exams such as:
- CUET-PG
- University-level tests
IIT JAM (Note: IIT JAM mainly leads to M.Sc at IITs and IISc, not all central universities.)
Top Government Colleges & Universities in India
University of Delhi (DU), New Delhi – strong research programmes
Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi – excellent academic exposure
Osmania University, Hyderabad – good faculty & placements
Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune – reputed geology department
Panjab University, Chandigarh – well-established programme
Central University of Kerala – admissions via national tests
Government Holkar Science College, Indore
DBS PG College, Dehradun
Government College, Satna (MP)
Government Dungar College, Bikaner (Rajasthan)
Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur – offers M.Sc Applied Geology
Andhra University, Visakhapatnam – strong science faculty
Career Scope After M.Sc in Geology
Government Jobs
- Geological Survey of India (GSI) – mapping, mineral and resource studies
- ONGC – oil and gas exploration
- State mining & mineral departments
- ISRO, CSIR, DRDO labs – research roles
Private Sector & Industry
- Mining & mineral exploration companies
- Environmental consulting firms
- GIS & remote sensing companies
- Oil & gas companies
Academia & Research
- PhD in Geology/Earth Sciences
- Teaching in colleges and universities
- Research roles in national and international labs
Future Growth
Geologists play a vital role in:
- Water resource management
- Environmental planning
- Climate and disaster studies
- Sustainable mining and energy exploration
With higher qualifications and experience, geologists can move into senior scientific and advisory roles.
M.Sc in Geology is ideal for students passionate about Earth sciences, research, and the environment. With opportunities in both government and private sectors, it offers long-term stability and growth. Choosing a reputed government university ensures strong academics and affordable education.