Universities and Online Degrees Guide

University of the Witwatersrand

Bachelor of Science with Honours in Geology

The Bachelor of Science with Honours in Geology in Earth Sciences is offered by University of the Witwatersrand.

Program Length: 1 YEAR.

Bachelor of Science with Honours in Geology offered by the University of the Witwatersrand

Geology is the study of processes that form and shape the earth. This includes the study of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, the mantle, tectonic processes such as rifting and orogeny, and the interaction of these elements through time.

Geologists are primarily engaged in the search for, and management of the extraction of metal and energy resources necessary to drive the global economy, as well as the monitoring of environmental consequences of human activity.

Why study Geology?

Geology incorporates everything! Whether you enjoy hiking, computer modelling, or blasting minerals with a laser, there's something for you to do as a geologist. Geology permeates into every aspect of life, whether you're driving over an interesting landscape, or tracing the origin of the materials that make up everything from your smartphone to your toothpaste. Geology gives you a fundamental understanding of how the Earth formed and continues to develop with time, and integrates observations from the planetary to the submicroscopic scales to build holistic models of how the Earth system works.

South Africa has a rich geological and mining heritage and world-class examples of some of Earth's oldest rocks, large ore deposits, and spectacular fossils.

Why study Geology at Wits?

The School of Geosciences is one of the largest and most diverse groupings of geoscientists in Africa, with strengths in geology, geochemistry, geophysics and palaeontology. Honours students can select from a wide range of research topics and have access to excellent preparation and analytical facilities for petrography, geochemistry and hydrogeology. We are centred in the hub of geological activity in South Africa and host numerous events each year that allow students to network with industry.