Overview of the Earth Science Programme

The Earth Sciences programme concentrates on topic areas which (i) enhance employment prospects, (ii) develop the role of Earth Science in society and its importance to environmental issues, and (iii) provide a background of knowledge, practical skills and field experience in the Earth Sciences. This is achieved by providing a broad foundation for Earth Science study and opportunities for subsequent specialisation. The programme provides a strong field-based culture in all topics in the Earth Sciences and offers a specialisation in one of these fields in the final year: Geology, Hydrogeology, Mineral Exploration, Petroleum Geoscience, Engineering Geology and Environmental Earth Science. 

Aims of the Program

The Earth Science programme at the University of Ghana aims to:

1. Enhance Employment Prospects: Equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in various Earth Science careers.
2. Promote Societal Impact: Develop students' understanding of the role of Earth Science in addressing environmental challenges and societal needs.
3. Provide a Strong Foundation: Offer a broad-based curriculum and practical experience to prepare students for specialized study and professional practice.
4. Foster Field-Based Learning: Emphasize hands-on field experience in all areas of Earth Science.
5. Enable Specialization: Provide opportunities for students to specialize in one of the following fields in their final year: Geology, Hydrogeology, Mineral Exploration, Petroleum Geoscience, Engineering Geology, or Environmental Earth Science.

Career Prospects

Earth science offers a diverse range of exciting career paths that are crucial to addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. From understanding the Earth's history to predicting natural disasters and mitigating climate change, Earth scientists play a vital role in shaping our planet's future.

Core Earth Science Careers

• Geologist: Delve into the Earth's composition, structure, and history. Work in fields such as mining, petroleum or oil and gas, and environmental consulting.
• Geophysicist: Utilize physical principles to explore the Earth's interior and its processes. Contribute to earthquake prediction, resource exploration, and climate modelling.
• Hydrologist: Study the Earth's water cycle and water resources. Play a key role in water management, flood control, and drought mitigation.

Interdisciplinary Careers

• Environmental Consultant: Assess environmental impacts and develop sustainable solutions.
• Engineering Geologist: Apply geological principles to engineering projects, such as dam construction and landslide prevention.
• Natural Resource Management: Manage the sustainable use of natural resources like forests, minerals, and water.
• GIS Specialist: Analyse spatial data and create maps using Geographic Information Systems.

Government and Academic Careers

• Government Agencies: Work for organizations like the Geological Survey, Environmental Protection Agency and the Minerals Commission
• Universities and Research Institutions: Conduct cutting-edge research, teach future generations, and mentor aspiring scientists.

Emerging Opportunities

• Renewable Energy: Contribute to the development and deployment of clean energy sources like geothermal and wind power.
• Space Exploration: Study the geology of other planets and celestial bodies.
• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Develop strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change

Tuition Method

Students engage in a range of learning and teaching opportunities including lectures, laboratory-based practical classes, and fieldwork including field-based classes and guided independent study. Compulsory inter-semester fieldwork at Levels 200 to 400 provides opportunities for guided investigations within small groups and in environments substantially contrasting to the lecture room and laboratory. Practical skills are also acquired by students through industrial attachment during the long vacation.

Entry requirements

For detailed information regarding entry requirements, kindly refer to the university's admissions webpage

https://admissions.ug.edu.gh/undergraduate/entry-requirements?page=1

NOTE: For international applicants, visit UG admissions page