Geology BSc
Igneous and Metamorphic Geology EARTH4093
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Geographical and Earth Sciences
- Credits: 30
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 1
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
Exploration of processes involved in the generation and evolution of igneous and metamorphic rocks and the techniques used to study them.
Timetable
Three classes per week for 5 weeks (held as 3-hour workshop). Local field classes.
Excluded Courses
EARTH4072 - Igneous Geology
EARTH4073 - Metamorphic and Structural Geology
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
A set of quizzes (50%)
Portfolio (50%)
Course Aims
The aim of this course is to develop students' understanding of fundamental processes in igneous and metamorphic geology. This will include: physical volcanology, geochemical analysis, constraining magma genesis and evolution, rates of igneous and metamorphic processes, response of rocks to changing pressure, temperature, fluids, deformation and time.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ Describe and interpret volcanic rocks to propose eruption histories and modes of deposition or emplacement.
■ Describe the key processes involved in generating igneous and metamorphic rocks, including partial melting, magma evolution and metamorphic reactions.
■ Explain the generation of geochemical data for igneous and metamorphic rocks and discuss how such data are quality controlled and interpreted.
■ Critically discuss different geochronology methods as applied to igneous and metamorphic rocks.
■ Process, present, interpret, and model geochemical and geochronological data.
■ Interpret metamorphic rock textures at a variety of scales to assess metamorphic reactions and pressure-temperature changes over time.
■ Critically assess the occurrence of magmatism and metamorphism in a range of tectonic environments