MSc. Geosciences

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

This two-year program, proposed exclusively within the framework of the French-Azerbaijani University (UFAZ), specializes in Geosciences, with an emphasis on the modeling of physical and chemical processes within the Earth. Optional courses in the second year enable to specialize either in the field natural georesources (oil, gas, mining) or in advanced numerical modeling including the latest AI technologies applied to the earth sciences. It is piloted by Ecole et Observatoire des Sciences de la Terre of Strasbourg University (France), in collaboration with the University of Rennes-1.

The program combines training in advanced aspects of Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry requiring a strong background in Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Programming. This training is provided by seasoned Professors and Assistant Professors from Strasbourg and Rennes-1 Universities and supplemented by specialist courses by professionals and experts.

CURRICULUM

Follow the link to learn more about the curriculum.

SKILLS DEVELOPED BY THE PROGRAM

We place a strong emphasis on analytical reasoning in all our courses, initiate students to finite element modeling of Earth science processes and give them hands-on experience with geophysical and geological fieldwork and their corresponding data processing and analysis methods.

As no field in the Geosciences can be understood alone, we guide students to integrate all the knowledge and skills they acquire and apply them to analyze and solve practical Geoscience problems in a project-oriented framework. Our aim is to train well-rounded Geoscientists and Geophysicists with strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills.

What are the skills of an UFAZ Geoscience Master's graduate?

He/she possesses a strong theoretical, numerical, and practical background in the Geosciences (Geophysics, Geology, and Geochemistry).
He/she possesses the geoscience and physics insights and the mathematical skills required to deepen this background in any geoscience specialty, either through in-house industry training, further academic training, or self-learning.
He/she can apply this knowledge and these skills to solving new geoscience problems, pulling together insights from different fields if necessary.
He/she can communicate effectively in English, allowing worldwide geographic mobility.
He/she can work effectively in teams within a multi-cultural environment.

PREREQUISITES

We are looking for students with a strong work ethic, who are able to learn complex information and use their knowledge to solve previously unseen problems. The ideal applicant will have bachelor level training in:

Physics (continuum mechanics, fluid mechanics, wave propagation in elastic media, electromagnetic phenomena, potential fields);
Geology (stratigraphy, plate tectonics, mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology);
Chemistry (architecture and transformation of matter, chemical equilibria, the thermodynamics of chemical reactions).

Previous experience in laboratory experiments, geological and geophysical field-work, and computer programming in Python will be an advantage.