What is Geology?

Geology is the study of the Earth. This field of study is concerned with the materials that comprise the Earth, rocks and minerals, as well as the processes that contributed to shape our planet, both internally and on the surface. Studying the physical and chemical characteristics of the earth materials is of great importance as humans interact with it daily and depend on many products refined or produced from rocks and minerals. In South Africa geology is of great importance as the country is abundantly enriched with economically valuable mineral resources and historically important heritage sites that draw many tourists to the country annually.   

Our interaction with geology impacts the surface of the earth greatly leaving behind excessive waste products and spreading pollution to other valuable resources such as water and soils. The curriculum therefore in addition to fundamental geology modules, incorporates principles of environmental geology, rehabilitation and soil science to prepare the student to engage in a society of professions where decisions are made regarding our Earth and its resources directly impacts our lives and those of future generations.  

Geology consists of the following subjects:

• Geology and the Environment
• South African Geology
• Mineralogy and Igneous Petrology
• Sedimentology, Structural Geology and Neotectonics
• Metamorphic Petrology and Geochemistry
• Hydrogeology
• Introduction to Soil Science
• Advanced Soil Science
• Soil Degradation and Rehabilitation