Applied Geoscience Program

The Applied Geoscience program at Heriot-Watt University has an active and growing capacity, complementing its Petroleum Engineering capabilities and research. The main focuses of activity are the Shell Centre for Exploration Geoscience and the NERC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Oil and Gas.

Key Information

• Funding: Self-funded
• School: Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society
• Location: Edinburgh
• Delivery type: Full-time, Part-time
• Start date: September

Research Projects

The Shell Centre supports PhD and PDRA positions in Applied Geoscience, with research themes in regional geology, structural development and evolution of sedimentary basins, subsurface mapping, and field geology. Recent projects include studies on the tectonostratigraphic evolution of the Eastern Mediterranean, the formation and development of the Tanzanian passive continental margin, and the spatial and temporal evolution of the Peri-Adriatic region.

The NERC CDT in Oil & Gas offers PhD research projects and industry-relevant training, with research themes in Unconventional Hydrocarbons, Extending the Life of Mature Basins, Exploration in Challenging Environments, and Environmental Impact & Regulation. The CDT aims to equip students with skills for exploring and sustainably extracting hydrocarbons, as well as responsible environmental management.

Entry Requirements

• Candidate criteria: Please discuss with the institute.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 6.0.
  • If the first language is not English, evidence of English language ability is required.
  • English language courses are available to help meet the English language requirement.

Funding Information

The tuition fees are as follows:

• Scotland: £5,151 (full-time), £2,575.50 (part-time)
• England / Wales / N Ireland: £5,151 (full-time), £2,575.50 (part-time)
• International: £20,456 (full-time), £10,228 (part-time)
  • Status: Residency status is usually defined as the country where the student has been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of the course.
  • International: Includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in the UK.

Competitive funded scholarships for research degrees are available, with full or partial support for well-qualified candidates from UK research councils, research pools, charities, or industry.

Heriot-Watt University

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Overview:

Heriot-Watt University is a research-focused institution with campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai, and Malaysia, as well as an online presence. It is known for its career-focused degrees and strong links with industry. Heriot-Watt is highly regarded for its research, with a significant portion ranked world-leading and internationally excellent.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Heriot-Watt offers a diverse and international student community, with one-third of its Edinburgh Campus students coming from outside the UK. The university provides a range of facilities across its campuses, including healthcare, libraries, food and drink, sports centers, and more. Students can participate in clubs and activities, and the university offers accommodation options near its campuses.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Career-focused degrees:

Heriot-Watt is ranked first in Scotland for graduate employability and its graduates are first in the UK for CEO or MD roles.

Global reach:

The university has campuses across the UK, Dubai, and Malaysia, providing students with a truly international experience.

Strong research:

Heriot-Watt is valued for its pioneering research, which is informed by the global needs of business and industry.

Diverse student community:

The university boasts a diverse international student community, fostering a multicultural learning environment.

Beautiful campuses:

Heriot-Watt's campuses are located in stunning settings, offering students a unique and inspiring learning environment.

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Academic Programs:

Heriot-Watt offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Engineering
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Computer Sciences
• Physical Sciences
• Social Sciences and Business
• Art and Design
• Languages and Culture

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Other:

Heriot-Watt is committed to sustainability and is actively working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The university also offers a personalized virtual experience through its online tour platform, allowing prospective students to explore its campuses virtually.