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Bachelors

Geodynamics and Global Tectonics

University College London (UCL)
London , United Kingdom
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Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
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Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Earth Sciences | Geology | Geophysics
Area of study
Engineering | Natural Science
Education type
On campus
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview

Geodynamics and Global Tectonics (GEOL0057)

Key Information

  • Faculty: Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
  • Teaching department: Earth Sciences
  • Credit value: 15
  • Restrictions: GEOL0004 Dynamic Earth, GEOL0012 Global Geophysics, GEOL0058 Matlab are prerequisites.

Alternative Credit Options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.


Description

This module is the continuation of the 2nd year module Global Geophysics (which is a prerequisite), and covers a selection of topics related to Geodynamical processes:


  • Kinematics of plates and triple junctions
  • Heat flow and sea floor bathymetry
  • Elasticity and flexure of plates
  • Global mantle convection
  • Isostasy, erosion and mountain building
  • Brittle and plastic flow of rocks
  • Remote sensing methods.

The module is aimed at getting an advanced understanding of the key physical processes driving plate tectonics and related phenomena. The lectures are organised around the derivation of simple models and how they can be used to explain observations. Mathematics are used throughout the course but the objective is to be able to understand equations, their dimensions and key characteristics rather than being able to re-derive them from first principles.


Practical sessions involve group research projects, group oral presentations and clinics, group debates, as well as exercises to learn and apply widely used research software, e.g. fluid dynamics and plate reconstruction software.


GEOL0004 Dynamic Earth, GEOL0012 Global Geophysics, GEOL0058 Matlab are prerequisites.


Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year

  • Intended teaching term: Term 2
  • Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 6)

Teaching and Assessment

  • Mode of study: In person
  • Methods of assessment:
    • 12% In-class activity
    • 28% Group activity
    • 60% Exam
  • Mark scheme: Numeric Marks

Other Information

  • Number of students on module in previous year: 27
  • Module leader: Dr Maxim Ballmer

Last Updated

This module description was last updated on 10th March 2026.


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