Geology

Field of study: Geology
Degree: Bachelor's degree
Language of instruction: English
Duration: 4 years
Credits: 240 ECTS credits

The Bachelor's degree program in Geology at Vilnius University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's processes, materials, and history. The program is designed to equip students with fundamental knowledge in mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, sedimentology, paleontology, and geophysics, enabling them to analyze Earth's formations and interpret geological data accurately. Students will gain practical skills through laboratory work, field excursions, and internships, providing real-world experience in geological survey techniques, mineral exploration, environmental assessment, and natural resource management.

Throughout the program, students will study in-depth topics such as tectonics, geological mapping, stratigraphy, geomorphology, and hydrogeology, preparing them for diverse careers in academia, environmental consulting, resource extraction industries, and governmental agencies. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for addressing contemporary geological challenges.

Vilnius University's strong connections with industry partners and research institutions offer students opportunities for internships and collaborative projects, ensuring they are well-prepared for the labor market. The program also prepares students for postgraduate studies in geology or related fields, supporting continued academic development. Instruction is delivered in English by experienced faculty members dedicated to high-quality teaching and research. Graduates from the Geology bachelor's program will be capable of independently conducting geological research, interpreting complex geological data, and making informed decisions relevant to sustainable development, natural resource management, and environmental preservation.

This program is ideal for students passionate about understanding the Earth's processes, exploring natural resources responsibly, and contributing to environmental and geological sciences. Upon completing the program, graduates will be awarded a Bachelor's degree in Geology, opening doors to diverse professional opportunities locally and internationally.

Geology studies at Vilnius University offer a comprehensive and in-depth education in the science of the Earth, focusing on the structure, composition, processes, and history of our planet. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in physical and historical geology, mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, tectonics, and environmental geology, preparing them for diverse careers in research, industry, environmental management, and resource exploration.

Throughout the course of study, students will gain essential theoretical knowledge complemented by practical skills through laboratory work, field excursions, and internships. They will learn to analyze geological samples, interpret geological maps, and utilize modern technological tools such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing in geological investigations. The curriculum emphasizes understanding earth processes, natural hazards, and sustainable resource management, aligning with current global challenges.

The program prepares students for active participation in research projects and encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills tailored to the needs of the geosciences sector. Graduates will be equipped to work in mineral and energy resource exploration, environmental consulting, natural hazard assessment, and academic research, among other fields.

Vilnius University's Geology program also fosters international cooperation and offers students opportunities for exchange studies and collaboration with global geological institutions. This allows students to gain international experience and broaden their perspectives within the global geosciences community.

By the end of the program, students will be able to independently analyze geological data, produce detailed geological reports, and contribute to scientific understanding and practical solutions for Earth's natural resources and environmental challenges. Our geology program is committed to providing high-quality education that combines rigorous academic training with real-world applications, preparing graduates to become innovative professionals and responsible custodians of Earth’s geological heritage.

• Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in study areas such as Geology, Physical Sciences, Engineering and Technological Sciences, Life Sciences, Social Sciences in History and Archeology.
• English language proficiency – the level not lower than B2 (following the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The financing of the Geology degree program at Vilnius University is primarily supported through a combination of government funding, student tuition fees, and supplementary financial aid options. Lithuanian citizens and residents benefit from state-funded places, which cover a significant portion of the tuition costs, reducing financial barriers and enabling talented students to pursue their studies without excessive economic hardship. International students and those opting for non-funded places are required to pay tuition fees, which are established annually by the university and are competitive within the region. For these students, various scholarship opportunities are available, including academic achievements, social support, and mobility grants, which can help offset the costs of education and living expenses.

Vilnius University also offers student loans and financial assistance programs designed to support students during their studies, especially those facing economic difficulties. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding through national scholarship programs, European Union grants, and research project acquisitions. The university actively promotes mobility programs such as Erasmus+, which allows students to study abroad for part of their degree, often with financial support to facilitate international exchange and cultural experiences.

Research grants and project funding dedicated to geological sciences also contribute indirectly to the program’s financing by supporting faculty research activities, infrastructure, and laboratory resources. These investments enhance the quality of education and provide students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, research opportunities, and practical training, which are integral to the high standards of the program. Overall, the financing structure of the geology studies at Vilnius University aims to ensure accessible, high-quality education by leveraging a diverse mix of funding sources, fostering academic excellence, and promoting equal opportunities for all students.

INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY

Students can participate in ERASMUS+ mobility programme or use VU’s Bilateral cooperation agreements which give an opportunity to study at VU’s Partner Universities or do internship abroad.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The graduate from the Programme is equipped with knowledge of essential principles of interactions between different geological processes and geological study objects, is able to evaluate the consequences of geological processes in the changing geo-environment. The Graduate of the Programme is able to pursue a career at enterprises, research, and state institutions dealing with scientific and practical geological activities and investigations, exploration of natural resources, environmental research, regulation, exploitation and protection of underground resources, territorial planning; to continue studies of higher (Doctoral) level in Geology and the other natural sciences in Lithuania and abroad. The acquired knowledge, cognitive, practical and transitional skills provide sufficient background for further studies for of scientific specialization, in the sphere of business, management and other.