degrees on offer by colleges and faculties - University of Ghana

Faculty of Engineering Sciences - University of GhanaB.Sc Earth ScienceDurationCampusAwarding Faculty4 yearsLegon CampusFaculty of ScienceOverviewEarth Science is the body of knowledge that examinesthe physical aspects of the earth; in particular theearth’s composition, structure, processes and history.It is a multidisciplinary field that is solidly based onBiology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics andPhysics.Earth Science covers a large range of disciplines suchas Physical Geography, Geology, Oceanography,Climatology and Soil Science. The principles drawnfrom these disciplines are applied to study the earth’sinterior, surface, atmosphere and electromagneticfield. Traditionally, the earth is apportioned intospheres or parts. In simple terms, lithosphere is theoutermost shell of the earth [land]; atmosphere is thelayer of air surrounding the lithosphere; hydrosphereis the bodies of water and biosphere is the parts ofthe earth where life exists [habitation].The B.Sc Earth Science programme offers a practicalunderstanding of how to address many of thechallenges of modern-day society especially thoserelating to energy, resource availability, geologicalhazards and environmental sustainability. Areas ofspecialisation are Geology, Hydrogeology, MineralExploration, Petroleum Geoscience, EngineeringGeology and Environmental Earth Science.Aims and ObjectivesAt the end of the programme, graduates areexpected to:• Acquire a well-rounded knowledge of theprocesses operating within, on and above theEarth’s surface and how they affect and changethe planet.• Develop proficiency in analysing aerialphotographs, geologic formations and other datato locate natural resource deposits.• Develop the ability to use a multidisciplinaryapproach to solve specific problems by relatingto knowledge of relevant fields such as Biology,Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics and Physics.• Be familiar with on-going efforts to address theenvironmental, social and economic impactsassociated with resource use and management.• Be able to apply knowledge and skills [in area ofspecialisation] to conduct scientific investigationor evaluate practical challenges.Industry/Global TrendsIn part, the well-being of society is dependent onhow responsible the Earth’s resources are used. EarthScience makes it possible to sustainably managenatural resources especially; energy, water, soil andminerals. Advances in Earth Science have helpedimproved older exploration and managementapproaches. For example, an exploration geologistmay find and evaluate new deposits such as gold orenergy sources such as petroleum, using geologicaltechniques, data from field studies, geophysicalsurveys and remote sensing. Likewise, a hydrogeologistmay investigate contaminated sites andadvise farmers and planners on the best way tomanage and develop groundwater resources.Earth Scientists are also making advances in thestudy of the weather, climate and ocean. Usingcomplex modern tools such as radar and satellites,in combination with computer modelling, naturalhazards such as floods, earthquakes, tsunami,landslides and volcanic eruptions can be predictedwith more accuracy and precision. The likely effects ofnatural hazards on human society can thus be bettermanaged.AssessmentStudents will be assessed on the basis of completedassignments, examinations, workplace learning andprojects or other methods as outlined in specificsubject outlines.Entry RequirementsSee General Admission Requirements andProcedures pages.Career ProspectsCareer opportunities in Earth Science are dependenton the area and level of specialisation. The widerangingcareer opportunities include among others:• Education [Teaching & Research]• Energy Resources and Exploration• Engineering Geologist• Environmental Consultant• Geologist• Hydrologist• Mineral Exploration and Mining• Resource Manager• Soil Conservator• Volcanologist• Water Resource Manager132 2013/2014 Univeresity of Ghana Prospectus