Applied Geosciences – Field-Based Geosciences (FBG) (MSc)

Our MSc programme Applied Geosciences is offered in five specialisations: Applied Mineralogy and Crystallography (AMC) Computational Geology & Geophysics (CGG) Energy and Mineral Resources (EMR) Field-Based Geosciences (FBG) Geoengineering (GIN) Field-Based Geosciences (FBG) The Field-Based Geosciences stream offers an immersive and practice-oriented approach to studying the Earth, designed for students who want to connect scientific understanding with real-world application. This specialisation combines traditional geological methods with modern tools to prepare graduates for the complex challenges of today’s geosciences. A key feature of the programme is an extended field camp, where students gain hands-on experience in geological mapping, structural analysis, and field documentation. In addition to technical training, the camp focuses on essential fieldwork skills such as planning, safety, teamwork, and professional conduct in remote environments. This intensive experience gives students the confidence and competence to work independently in the field—an increasingly valuable skill in both academic and applied settings. Beyond the field, the programme provides a strong theoretical foundation in geosciences and develops analytical skills through lab-based courses and data interpretation. Students are introduced to modern techniques including drone-based surveying, satellite remote sensing, and digital mapping, which are integrated into both field and classroom learning. This blend of traditional knowledge and technological innovation equips graduates with a broad and versatile skill set. Graduates of this stream are well prepared for careers in research, resource exploration, environmental consulting, or natural hazard assessment. With its unique blend of field experience, scientific depth, and technical skills, Field-Based Geosciences equips students to tackle real-world challenges and gain a deeper understanding of the planet. It's possible to download the current course curriculum at the end of the following 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/.

Course details verified 09 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source

1. Winter semester

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2. Summer semester

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English

E.G. TOEFL iBT (since 2026): 4 Reading: 4 Listening: 4 Speaking: 4 Writing: 4 Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First IELTS Academic: 6 UNIcert® English: UNIcert® II

Prerequisites

The professional requirements differ for the various specialisations. Bachelor's graduates with the following geoscientific competence profile (e.g. Bachelor's degrees in the fields of geosciences, earth sciences, geology, mineralogy, crystallography, etc.) can be admitted to the specialisation FBG: Bachelor of Science or Engineering with at least 180 ECTS and at least 20 ECTS from natural sciences (biology, chemistry, mathematics and/or physics) at least 80 ECTS from geosciences (e.g. geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, crystallography, geoengineering) at least 5 ECTS from geoscientific field education

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