MRes in Geological Sciences

Our Master of Research (MRes) degree in Geological Sciences is for highly motivated, enthusiastic students with a research interest in Geological Sciences. This MRes allows you to pursue research study in an area of your choosing under the direction of internationally recognised research in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences at University College Cork.

The MRes in Geological Sciences is a full-time course running over 12 months (24 months part-time) from the date of first registration. Applications will be accepted for a start date in October or January. The programme consists of (a) a major research thesis and (b) taught modules on generic and transferable skills, with an emphasis on scientific writing, oral presentations, and general research skills.

The subject of your research project can be drawn from the range of expertise of staff in the Geology discipline in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences including palaeontology, palaeobiology, palaeobotany, micropalaeontology, sedimentology, palaeo-environmental analysis, marine geology, geomatics, marine geosciences, structural geology, contaminant hydrogeology and igneous processes.

Applicants must have a Second Class Honours (minimum Grade 2.1) in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in the following relevant subject areas: Geology, Geoscience or Earth Science.

You must be approved by the MRes coordinator and programme team, including the Head of Geology in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences.

The number of places is limited and decisions on entry to the programme will be made based on the applicant’s performance in their primary degree and interview according to the following criteria: academic qualifications, research experience and focus, scientific understanding, personal statement and strong recommendations from two academic referees.

Duolingo English Test: DET 120 (with a minimum score of 110 in each individual section)

IELTS: 6.5 Overall; 6.0 Individual Skills (academic version)

TOEFL iBT: 90 Overall; Listening 20; Reading 19; Speaking 21; Writing 20

Cambridge Examinations:

C2 Proficiency
C1 Advanced
B2 First

176 overall with no less than 169 in each element of the test

Pearson PTE: Minimum score of 63 with no section score below 59