Postgraduate Programmes; MSc Exploration Geology

The M.Sc. Programme is designed for geologists who wish to upgrade their skills while being employed. It is offered on a part-time basis and lasts between 30 and 48 months. The M.Sc. Programme comprises four modules in Part1 lasting 20 weeks in total, and a research dissertation in Part 2. The research dissertation can be prepared during employment and must be submitted 3-6 months after commencing Part 2.
Applicants will normally have obtained a good B.Sc. Honours degree in Geology from the University of Zimbabwe or other approved university or institution, or equivalent qualification in earth sciences, environmental sciences or mining. B.Sc. General candidates may be considered for entry after completion of three years of relevant work experience. Students may either register and pay fees foe single modules, or for the complete M.Sc programme. Foreign students are encouraged to apply and will be assisted to obtain an education permit.

Module 1
Comprises the study of exploration tools for magnetic, hydrothermal, volcanogenic/sedimentary hosted and sedimentary deposits. Metallogenic concepts help to concentrate exploration activities and to assess the potential of large exploration and mining leases. Laboratory sessions include practicals on the discovery history of world-class ore deposits, the study of ore suites and drill core sections, as well as ore microscopy.

Module 2
Is devoted to modern geochemical and geophysical techniques required for the detection of mineral anomalies, either in historical mining areas or in "virgin" territories. Field trips provide an overview of regolith sampling and analytical methods in geochemical exploration. Geophysical techniques include resistivity, gravity, aeromagnetic, induced polarization, electromagnetic and seismic methods. In laboratory sessions, students use exploration reports and computerized data bases to train in interpretation of geochemical and geophysical data

Module 3
Concentrates on the application of remote sensing and Geological Information System (GIS) to mineral resources, and ore body evaluation studies. Courses in remote sensing cover aerial photography and satellite image interpretations using multispectral, thermal infrared, and radar images. Geostatictis and advanced methods in ore reserve estimations, for example variogram and semi-variogram calculations, kriging, estimation of variance, and grade and tonnage control are presented. Essentials of drilling and sampling techniques are part of this module.

Module 4
Students carry out a feasibility study on a given mineral deposit. The module deals with subjects such as current mineral markets, legal and fiscal considerations, environmental regulations, problems of mining and processing, exploration design, and financial management. Laboratory sessions and field trips are designed to allow a feasibility report on an actual case study to be carried out.
After successful completion of the four modules and a research dissertation the student is awarded a Master Of Science Degree in Exploration Geology.