Geological Formations
Rock Formations
Mining Operations
Geological Research

Applied Geology

Understanding Earth for Sustainable Resource Development

Department of Applied Geology

School of Earth and Mineral Sciences (SEMS) • Federal University of Technology, Akure

Mineral Exploration Environmental Geology Mining Geology Hydrogeology Geotechnics Petroleum Geology

About the Department

The Department of Applied Geology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), within the School of Earth and Mineral Sciences, is dedicated to developing competent geologists capable of exploring, exploiting, and managing Earth's mineral and energy resources sustainably. Our department trains graduates with expertise in mineral exploration, mining geology, environmental assessment, and hydrogeological investigations.

Applied Geology is the practical application of geological science to solve real-world problems related to mineral and energy resources, environmental protection, and engineering projects. Our comprehensive curriculum integrates mineralogy and petrology, structural geology and tectonics, stratigraphy and sedimentation, geochemistry and isotope geology, economic geology and ore deposits, hydrogeology and groundwater, environmental geology and hazard assessment, and geotechnical engineering. Students develop expertise in fieldwork, core logging, geological mapping, mineral identification, resource evaluation, and environmental impact assessment.

The department features modern geological laboratories equipped with thin-section microscopes, X-ray diffraction (XRD) equipment, scanning electron microscopes (SEM), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), and geochemical analysis instruments. Our curriculum is aligned with international geology standards and professional requirements. We maintain active collaborations with mining companies, oil and gas corporations, environmental agencies, and exploration companies, providing students with field opportunities and exposure to industry-standard practices.

Graduates of Applied Geology are highly sought-after professionals in mining, oil and gas, environmental consulting, construction, and government agencies. They work as exploration geologists, mining engineers, hydrogeologists, environmental consultants, and geotechnical specialists. Our alumni successfully discover and develop mineral deposits, manage groundwater resources, conduct environmental impact assessments, and ensure sustainable resource management both nationally and internationally.

What We Offer

Academic Programs

  • B.Sc in Applied Geology - 5-year undergraduate program
  • M.Sc in Applied Geology - Postgraduate degree
  • Ph.D in Applied Geology - Advanced research degree

Core Focus Areas

  • Mineralogy & Petrology
  • Structural Geology & Tectonics
  • Stratigraphy & Sedimentation
  • Geochemistry & Isotope Geology
  • Economic Geology & Ore Deposits
  • Hydrogeology & Groundwater
  • Environmental Geology & Hazards
  • Geotechnical Engineering

Facilities & Resources

Mineralogy Laboratory

Thin-section and ore microscopy equipment

Geochemistry Lab

XRD, SEM, AAS, elemental analysis systems

Field Equipment

GPS, mapping tools, sampling equipment

Research Focus Areas

Our department conducts research across critical applied geology disciplines:

Mineralogy & Petrology

Mineral identification, crystal chemistry, rock classification, phase diagrams, metamorphic and igneous processes.

Structural Geology & Tectonics

Fold and fault analysis, stress and strain, plate tectonics, seismic interpretation, geodynamics.

Stratigraphy & Sedimentation

Sedimentary sequences, chronostratigraphy, depositional environments, sequence stratigraphy, basin analysis.

Geochemistry & Isotope Geology

Elemental geochemistry, isotope dating, trace element analysis, stable isotopes, geothermometry.

Economic Geology & Ore Deposits

Ore deposit types, genesis and classification, exploration techniques, resource evaluation, mining geology.

Hydrogeology & Groundwater

Aquifer characterization, groundwater flow, water chemistry, contamination assessment, remediation.

Environmental Geology & Hazards

Geohazard assessment, land subsidence, coastal erosion, environmental impact assessment, waste management.

Geotechnical Engineering

Soil mechanics, foundation design, slope stability, rock mechanics, site characterization.

Career Opportunities

Applied Geology graduates pursue diverse careers in resource industries and environmental sectors:

Exploration Geologist

Find mineral and oil deposits

Mining Geologist

Manage mining operations

Hydrogeologist

Manage groundwater resources

Environmental Consultant

Environmental impact assessment

Geotechnical Engineer

Ground investigation and design

Petroleum Geologist

Oil and gas exploration

Geoscience Consultant

Provide technical advice

Research Scientist

Conduct geological research

Educator

Teach geology and earth sciences

Useful Departmental Links

Geology Course Materials & Resources

Access comprehensive geology materials, field guides, lecture notes, past questions, practicals, and research resources organized by academic level.

400 Level Resources - Specialization & Professional Practice

Biology integration, geophysics, and advanced geological applications.

Admission Requirements

UTME Requirements

  • Minimum UTME score as set by JAMB and FUTA
  • Subject combination: English Language, Mathematics, and Physics/Chemistry
  • Five O'Level credit passes in no more than two sittings
  • O'Level credits must include: English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and one other subject

Direct Entry Requirements (200 Level)

  • A'Level passes in Physics and Chemistry (minimum grade C)
  • A'Level pass in Geology or Geography (minimum grade C)
  • ND Upper Credit in Geology or related Earth Sciences discipline
  • Plus O'Level requirements as stated above

Contact the Department

Department Office

Department of Applied Geology
School of Earth and Mineral Sciences (SEMS)
Federal University of Technology, Akure
PMB 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

Office Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed