Independent Mapping Projects

Most 'traditional' geology degrees include an independent field-based Mapping Project in the summer between the 2nd and 3rd years (others include a research project instead). This involves four to six weeks of field work in the UK or internationally, allowing students to demonstrate their field skills and organisation. For safety reasons fieldwork is usually undertaken in groups of 2 or 3 ‘mapping partners’.

Choosing a mapping area

Universities will usually have a selection of areas that members of staff know well, in which mapping groups can undertake their projects (often 2 or 3 groups per area). Groups often choose an area reflecting the branch of Geology they are most interested in, which could be near home or an area visited on a previous field trip (the UK features some of the most diverse geology in the world). Nevertheless, students are free to select an area anywhere in the world, as long as a member of staff agrees to act as their supervisor.

Universities often have close contacts in other universities around the world who may agree to supervise. It’s always worth asking if you’re set on going to the Australian Outback or the Canadian Rockies to map. However, since supervisors must usually visit the group during their project, travelling further afield than Europe involves more work, expense and planning than a ‘normal’ project.

The Project