Honours BSc Geology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

Embark on a journey into the dynamic field of Earth science with the Honours BSc Geology at the University of Ottawa. This undergraduate program is designed for curious minds eager to understand the composition, evolution, and processes of our planet and beyond. You will delve into critical areas such as mineralogy, stratigraphy, structural geology, and hydrogeology, learning to analyze Earth materials and model complex geological phenomena. The Ottawa region serves as your natural laboratory, offering hands-on experience with resource exploration, hazard assessment, and diverse geological environments, preparing you for a career dedicated to understanding and safeguarding our world.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, providing a comprehensive education that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage in compulsory courses covering fundamental Earth systems, mineralogy, and field studies, complemented by optional courses in areas like paleontology or geophysics. Your final year culminates in an independent Honours Project, allowing you to conduct in-depth research. You will graduate with a strong foundation in geoscience, recognized for meeting professional accreditation requirements, ready for roles in environmental consulting, resource management, and scientific research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Honours BSc in Geology program provides a comprehensive foundation in Earth sciences, beginning with introductory courses in biology, chemistry, environmental science, Earth systems, and Earth materials. Students will progress through compulsory courses at the 2000 and 3000 levels, covering topics such as mineralogy, stratigraphy, structural geology, petrology, and field studies. The program allows for specialization through a range of optional geology and science courses, culminating in an honours project and further advanced coursework.

1 Compulsory Courses at the 1000 Level

Introduction to Organismal Biology Compulsory
Principles of Chemistry Compulsory
Introduction to Environmental Science Compulsory
Introduction to Earth Systems Compulsory
Introduction to Earth Materials Compulsory
Calculus for the Life Sciences I Compulsory
Calculus for the Life Sciences II Compulsory
Fundamentals of Physics I Compulsory
Fundamentals of Physics II Compulsory

2 Compulsory Courses at the 2000 Level

Field Studies I Compulsory
Introduction to Mineralogy Compulsory
Stratigraphy and Sedimentation Compulsory
Structural Geology and Tectonics Compulsory

3 Compulsory Courses at the 3000 Level

Igneous Petrology Compulsory
Metamorphic Petrology Compulsory
Mineral Deposits Compulsory
Introduction to Hydrogeology Compulsory
Field Studies II Compulsory

4 Optional Courses

Physical Chemistry: Introduction to the Molecular Properties of Matter
Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry
Paleontology
Oceanography
Introduction to Climate Science
Quaternary Geology and Climate Change
Geoscience Data Analysis
Probability and Statistics for Engineers
Introduction to Biostatistics
Carbonate Sedimentology
Siliciclastic Sedimentology
Applied Geophysics
Geochemistry

5 Honours Option

Honours Project
3 Optional Course Units in Geology (GEO) at the 4000 Level
3 Optional Course Units in Geology (GEO) at the 3000 or 4000 Level
12 Optional Course Units in Geology (GEO) at the 3000 or 4000 Level
3 Optional Course Units in Biology (BIO), Chemistry (CHM), Mathematics (MAT), or Physics (PHY) at the 2000, 3000 or 4000 Level

6 Elective Courses

12 Elective Course Units from the Faculty of Arts, the Faculty of Education, the Faculty of Law, the Faculty of Social Sciences, or the Telfer School of Management
18 Elective Course Units

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,606.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 126,425.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 937.00 - USD 1,171.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,981.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,582.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on Ottawa Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Data Science & AnalyticsEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEnergy Engineering & InfrastructureHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Hydropower & Alternative RenewablesIndustrial & Mechanical EngineeringLean Manufacturing & Process ImprovementOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionQuality Control & AssuranceRefining & Petrochemicals

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Ciena

Department of National Defense

Environment and Climate Change Canada

Formula uOttawa

Why Study Honours BSc Geology at University of Ottawa

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Ottawa in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Honours BSc Geology at University of Ottawa

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. On-campus employment has no hour restrictions and requires no separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet specific English test scores, such as an overall TOEFL score of 86 or an IELTS score of 6.5. Check the individual components for more details.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Geologists, Environmental Scientists, Geological Engineers, Geophysicists, or Hydrogeologists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This dynamic program covers the analysis of Earth materials and the exploration of geological hazards such as earthquakes and landslides. Students gain hands-on experience in the Ottawa region, which serves as a natural laboratory for various geological studies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Honours BSc Geology program has an intake month in September. Make sure to apply early to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️