Applied Geosciences – Energy & Mineral Resources (EMR) (MSc)

Program overview

This MSc is one of five specializations within the Applied Geosciences master’s track — the other streams are Applied Mineralogy and Crystallography (AMC), Computational Geology & Geophysics (CGG), Field-Based Geosciences (FBG) and Geoengineering (GIN). The Energy & Mineral Resources (EMR) stream focuses on practical, application-driven training related to the exploration and production of energy and mineral resources as well as the geological aspects of sequestration and subsurface storage. Instruction is delivered in English.

What to expect

EMR emphasizes hands-on methodologies and applied problem-solving in subsurface resource contexts. The programme offers a flexible curriculum with a wide selection of elective modules so students can tailor their studies toward geothermics, mineral exploration, geophysical imaging, geochemistry, or related specialties. The combination of applied coursework and technical electives prepares students to engage with real-world challenges in resource evaluation, production and safe long-term storage of subsurface materials.

Elective modules (examples)

• Geothermics I: Global Geothermics & Direct Use
• Geothermics II: Shallow Geothermal Systems & Advanced Applications
• Sustainable Organic Resources
• Subsurface Analysis and Characterisation
• Advanced Structural Geology
• Advanced Methods in Economic Geology
• Mineral Exploration and Resource Estimation
• Applied Geochemistry and Petrology
• Applied Seismology
• Underground Excavation
• Disposal of Radioactive Waste
• Repository Design and Processes
• Geophysical Imaging and Monitoring Methods
• Geophysical Logging and Log Interpretation
• Principles of Plate Tectonics and Structural Geological Models
• Applied Biogeochemistry
• Geostatistical Modelling
• Remote Sensing
• Sedimentology

Key facts

• Language of instruction: English
• Focus areas: exploration and production of energy/mineral resources; sequestration and subsurface storage
• Program type: MSc stream within Applied Geosciences (EMR)

You can download the up-to-date course curriculum for the Applied Geosciences – Energy & Mineral Resources (MSc) program from the programme page; the downloadable file is linked at the end of this page: https://www.fgeo.rwth-aachen.de/cms/geowissenschaften-und-geographie/Studium/Studiengaenge/Master-courses-of-study/Angewandte-Geowissenschaften/~cajo/Kurzprofil-des-Studiengangs/lidx/1/.

The downloadable curriculum document contains the authoritative, detailed breakdown of the programme: the list of modules, semester-by-semester structure, credit (ECTS) allocation, practical and field components, thesis requirements, and the stated learning outcomes. If you want to understand the core and elective modules or the exact competencies graduates are expected to achieve, consult that PDF for precise module titles, descriptions, and assessment formats.

For international applicants it’s useful to look in the curriculum file for the language of instruction, semester workload (ECTS), how and when field work or lab training are scheduled, and the formal learning outcomes tied to each module — these sections clarify what skills and knowledge you will gain by graduation and how they are assessed. If anything in the document is unclear, contact the programme coordinator or faculty office (contact details are listed on the same web page).

Action checklist (next steps)

• Download the current curriculum from the link above and open the PDF at the bottom of the page.
• Review the module list and ECTS to see course structure and credit weighting.
• Read the learning outcomes section to confirm the competencies and career-relevant skills the programme targets.
• Check the document for language of instruction, practical/fieldwork requirements, and thesis regulations.
• Contact the programme coordinator or admissions office (details on the programme page) if you need clarification or an English translation.

Graduates are prepared for technical and analytical roles in sectors that manage and develop subsurface resources — for example mining and mineral exploration, geothermal and other energy industries, environmental and subsurface storage projects, and geotechnical consultancies. The curriculum's emphasis on field methods, geophysical and geochemical techniques, and resource estimation equips students for operational, consulting and technical positions.

The programme also provides a solid foundation for research or doctoral studies for those wishing to continue in academia, particularly in areas related to resource geology, geophysics, environmental geology and repository science.