Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology

The aim of the master's program is to convey advanced knowledge of applied geology. Elective modules allow for the creation of an individual study profile in the areas of engineering geology and hydrogeology.

Engineering geology, as a field of geotechnical engineering, provides the link between the disciplines of geosciences based on natural science, and engineering sciences. Engineering geologists deal with the investigation of natural underground phenomena as well as the associated development of derived models that respond to technical questions concerning such phenomena. In interdisciplinary cooperation with geotechnicians, civil engineers, geodesists, mining engineers, and mechnical engineers, they plan and execute measures taken in the areas of transport route construction, specialized civil engineering, tunnel and cavern construction, mining, the exploitation of raw materials and natural stone, site remediation, and the mitigation of natural hazards.

Hydrogeologists deal with the Earth's water cycle, that is, with the distribution of water in the atmosphere as well as in and on the Earth, across space and time. As such, the biological, chemical, and physical properties of water are of great significance. Hydrogeology therefore offers the basis for answering important questions about the future management of water resources. In this respect, the specific challenges are providing seven billion people with clean drinking water, the sustainable use of the natural resource “groundwater” and the spread of harmful substances in groundwater, as well as the remediation of contaminated land and groundwater. 

Which further expertise and skills will I acquire?

As a graduate you possess a broad spectrum of competencies, skills, and knowledge in the area of applied geology, and specifically with regard to engineering geology and hydrogeology. You operate on the interface between the geosciences and engineering sciences, understand technical geological problems, and grasp interdisciplinary connections. You present geological features of sites with precision on maps and profiles, and use appropriate field, laboratory, and computational methods in your work.

In addition to strong core competencies in engineering geology and hydrogeology, you have further discipline-specific knowledge at your disposal based on your choice of specialties. Content offered includes inter alia applied quaternary geology, geostatistics, landslide mapping with geographic information system exercises, numeric modeling, mineral raw materials, technical petrography, technical and applied hydrology, hydrochemistry, and chemical analysis.

Given that numerous courses involve group work, you will have been able to develop significant social skills and are always conscious of the ethical and moral implications of your actions. 

Which professional opportunities can I take up with this qualification?

For graduates of engineering geology and hydrogeology, opportunities arise in research as well as in various branches of public administration. Nationally and internationally active engineering offices offer further options.