Geology MSc
    Facts & figures
    Degree
    Geologist
    Type
    Degree program
    Academic Level
    Master
    Accreditation number
    FNYF/168-3/2016
    Department

    Department of Physical and Applied Geology

    Institute

    Institute of  Geography and Earth Sciences

    Center

    Center of Earth Sciences

    Language of instruction

    English

    Duration
    4 semesters (2 years)
    Area of interest
    Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics
    ECTS Credits
    120
    Minimum number of new students
    6
    Maximum number of new students
    12
    Short description

    The program provides advanced training in geology, applicable to geological problem solving. Our graduates have a solid foundation of knowledge in the different core disciplines of geology sciences (mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, and paleontology), complemented with advanced skills through specialized studies in selected areas. The field component includes a three-week geological mapping field school.

    The program also has an emphasis on practical courses related to mineral exploration, petroleum geology, hydrogeology and environmental geology. The specialization in petroleum geology and/or hydrogeology provides in-depth training for future specialists in these fields. The degree program prepares both for continuing studies after admission to a doctoral program and work as a geologist primarily in the petroleum industry, in hydrogeology, or in related jobs in the public sector.

    Strength of program

    The Geology MSc program is taught by highly qualified faculty members of four departments (Physical and Applied Geology, Mineralogy, Petrology and Geochemistry, and Paleontology). The Program Director is a member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, six professors hold the doctoral degree of the Academy, other teaching faculty members hold PhD degrees. Three research units, specialized in topics of geology and paleontology, are funded by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and hosted by the Institute of Geography and Earth Sciences.

    The highly diverse research portfolio of our staff is focused on (but not restricted to) the geology of Hungary, the Pannonian Basin and the neighboring areas, its hydrocarbon and groundwater systems, mineral resources, as well as basic research in mineralogy, geochemistry, sedimentology, stratigraphy and paleontology. Results of this research are regularly published in leading international journals, and MSc student thesis projects are often integrated into these larger projects.

    Career opportunities

    Our graduates are best trained to seek employment in the petroleum industry, with groundwater and geothermal companies, or in the public sector, including universities, geological surveys, and research institutions. Their broad-based geological knowledge will prepare them to work in teams together with geophysicists and other geoscientists. As all courses are offered in English, prospective employers include those located in the graduate’s home country as well as global, multinational companies.

    Job examples
    • Petroleum exploration: Our graduates find project geologist positions in the G & G (Geology & Geophysics) sector of the upstream segment of oil companies.

    • Hydrogeology: Our graduates find jobs in the industry to explore and manage groundwater resources.

    • Natural resources administration: Our graduates can fill positions in national geological surveys and other government offices responsible for management of natural resources.

    • Geoscience research: Our graduates can apply to PhD schools at research universities and continue their education towards successful careers in academic research in Earth sciences.

    EU/EEA students Non-EU/EEA students
    Tuition fee/semester 4,190 EUR 4,190 EUR
    Application fee
    160 EUR (non-refundable)
    160 EUR (non-refundable)
    Entrance exam fee
    Other cost
    Offered for the next academic year
    Yes
    Start program
    Deadline for applications – September intake
    Is there a February intake?
    No
    Admission requirements

    Entry requirements

    Accepted Bachelor degrees: Geology, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Geophysics, Geological Engineering if the applicant has at least 40 credits in the following fields: mineralogy, geochemistry, paleontology, geology, applied geology.

    Language requirements

    An internationally accredited language examination is required with at least a B2 CEFR level or equivalent result.

    Examples of minimum level accepted:
    TOEFL iBT 72 pts
    IELTS 5.5

    Alternatively, an official certificate issued by the applicant’s previous higher education institution can be accepted, stating that the applicant’s previous education (Bachelor’s degree) was completed entirely in English.

    Documents to submit with application
    Document Comment
    Online application form -
    Bachelor-level degree -
    Transcript of records -
    CV -
    Motivation letter -
    Letter of recommendation -
    Copy of the main pages of the passport needs to be valid
    Copy of application fee transfer -
    Language certificate -
    Further comments (if needed)

    Applicants should possess a BSc degree in Geology (or Earth Sciences). Applicants still pursuing their BSc studies should obtain the diploma, or at least a certificate of being entitled to the diploma, before starting their MSc studies.

    Application procedure

    The application starts at the online application system. Students need to register in the system, fill in the online application form, upload the required documents and follow the instructions during the application process.

    Procedure of the entrance examination

    Proper application packages will be forwarded to the Program Coordinator. In lieu of an entrance exam, applicants whose previous studies meet the entry requirements will be interviewed over Skype.

    Program coordinator

    International Coordinator
    Mr. Péter MOLNÁR
    E-mail: inter@ttk.elte.hu
    TEL: +36-1-372-2695

    More information
    Faculty Website

    Program leader

    Prof. Dr. József PÁLFY
    Head of the Department of Physical and Applied Geology