Program Overview

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BSc in Environmental and Engineering Geology

Programme Information

The BSc in Environmental and Engineering Geology degree offers further specialisation in engineering geology and hydrogeology. Engineering geology is the study of the behaviour of ground (soil and rock) and how likely it is to affect engineering works. It comprises geotechnical studies and relates to construction (e.g., founding or excavation) on and with geological materials (e.g., construction materials), and to the influences of geological, geomorphological, and hydrological processes on construction and development. Hydrogeology refers to the occurrence, distribution, and movement of water below the Earth's surface. The study of groundwater is generally both quantitative (e.g., water supply, safe abstraction, and the influences of pumping) and qualitative (e.g., contamination, remediation, and drinking water).

Very few universities offer professional qualifications in engineering geology and hydrogeology. The University of Pretoria offers both, which places it in a strong position on the interface between infrastructure development and subsurface water. The qualification complies with the requirements for professional registration.

The programme requires a strong understanding of mathematics and mechanics. A genuine concern for Planet Earth, a desire to work outdoors, and an interest in geology or geomorphology will be an advantage. Depending on your personality, you can choose how you would like to divide your time between doing fieldwork and working on a computer.

Engineering geologists work closely with civil engineers, mining engineers, town planners, and environmental scientists. Your work will require you to identify geological hazards, source building materials, and supply foundation solutions.

As a hydrogeologist, you will be involved in the supply of water for urban, agricultural, and industrial use. Nowadays, many graduates work in contaminant transport and remediation, which involves identifying sources of pollution and finding suitable remediation solutions.

Career Opportunities

Engineering and environmental geologists study the interaction between human activities and the geological environment, such as the pollution of soil and groundwater. They investigate geological structures and soil and rock properties at construction sites, for example, dams, tunnels, and mines, to provide valuable information before construction. They also locate and evaluate suitable construction materials. The task of the hydrogeologist is to search for groundwater and monitor the responsible exploitation of that water.

Faculty Notes

All modules will only be presented in English, which is the University's official language of tuition, communication, and correspondence.

The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences is home to more than 6,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Faculty presents degrees in fields ranging from the proverbial A to Z – from actuaries to zoologists, and consists of 13 departments.

All degree programmes are designed to develop problem-solving individuals who can easily adapt to changing circumstances and take the lead in their chosen fields of specialisation. The qualifications awarded are of world-class and provide access to a multitude of career opportunities for dynamic and creative people.

Admission Requirements

• Achievement level
  • English Home Language or English First Additional Language: 5
  • Mathematics: 5
  • Physical Sciences: 5
  • APS: 34

Life Orientation is excluded when calculating the APS.

Applicants currently in Grade 12 must apply with their final Grade 11 (or equivalent) results.

Applicants who have completed Grade 12 must apply with their final NSC or equivalent qualification results.

Please note that meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.

Minimum Duration

3 years, full-time

Closing Dates

• South Africa: 30/06/2025
• International: 30/06/2025