University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

The module focuses on the geodynamic setting, age, geometry, and mineralogy of the principal metallic mineral deposits related to magmatic processes. The different deposit types are studied using a holistic (geology, structural, geochemistry, and geophysics) mineral system approach. Current genetic models of ore deposits related to magmatic processes are reviewed with an emphasis on the geological processes required to create them. Finally, a roadmap to mineral exploration for each type of ore deposit is discussed. Deposit types discussed include magmatic Ni-Cu, magmatic PGE-Cr, porphyry, epithermal, skarn, Rare Earth Element (REE) and iron oxide copper gold (IOCG). Laboratory exercises involve geological problem solving using a mineral exploration industry focus involving the examination of geological maps and representative suites of samples (thin sections and hand samples) from different types of metallic mineral deposits.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 x 1-hour lectures (22 hours over 10 weeks), 3 x 1-hour seminars (x 2 weeks); 3-hour practical classes (x 4 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 31

Guided independent study hours: 121

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Practical Examination = 15%, Coursework = 35%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 15%
Coursework: 35%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 80%, Existing Coursework = 20%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor A A Finch
Module teaching staff: Prof A Finch and new EES staff member
Module coordinator email aaf1@st-andrews.ac.uk