Undergraduate Degree in Geology

Geology is the study of solid earth, the rocks that compose it and the processes by which they change. We live on a planet that is not static; it is subject to internal and external forces that directly or indirectly affect our everyday lives. Understanding the way our planet works is essential in order to avoid natural disasters, analyse natural hazards, exploit and monitor our natural resources, and predict changes throughout the globe.

Our Degree in Geology gives you the opportunity to learn about all these aspects and many more. Geology has already been taught at the UGR for over 50 years, during which it has emerged as one of the most sought-after degrees in its field in Spain. Our teaching staff are highly experienced and qualified, and actively participate in academic research projects, financed both by public and private institutions.

As a student on our degree, your will receive rigorous training in numerous obligatory subjects such as geology, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, crystallography, mineralogy, statistics, cartography, sedimentology, geomorphology, stratigraphy, palaeontology and petrology. You will also have the opportunity to choose a number of elective subjects, such as specialised palaeontology, remote sensing, prospecting, volcanology, petrogenesis and soil science.

Those who graduate from our degree are highly qualified to find work in different contexts, such as in private businesses and companies, as freelancers, in public administration, in teaching, and in research. Over the past few decades, the work of geologists has been particularly focused on construction—that is, on geotechnical engineering, an important branch of civil engineering. Specialists in cartography, geomorphology, palaeontology, the evaluation of environmental risks, conservation and restoration have also been in high demand.

Geology provides a unique service to society and as a geologist you can make an impact in key areas. This influence can be seen in everyday matters, such as construction planning, the prevention of natural disasters, the protection of natural resources, or the search for raw materials.

Currently, climate change is a critical issue. Geologists can contribute to tackling the problem of climate change by analysing previous changes that the Earth has undergone. In a broader sense, geologists further contribute to humanity’s scientific heritage by learning about, and analysing, the history of the Earth.