Minerals

Field of study mineralogy

M.Sc. Geosciences
Minerals
Image: IGW

Mineralogy investigates the material composition of the earth in crystalline structures in the size range from nanometers to kilometers. It deals with minerals and rocks, materials and new materials. Geochemistry studies the chemical composition of minerals and rocks. It also analyzes the consequences of mining and industrial activities on the environment.

Geysir
Geysir
Image: IGW

Structure of the Master's program

The master's program in mineralogy is divided into a compulsory and an elective area, so that a focus can be set according to interests. In addition, courses from the field of geology and geophysics can be attended. During the first two semesters, courses on various mineralogical topics are offered, e.g. deposit science, petrology, crystallography, geochemistry or the Grand ExcursionExternal link. In the last two semesters the study is completed with a research as well as project module and the master thesis.

An overview and description of the individual modules can be found under Module Overview and under Regulations and Module Catalog.

The basic study procedure is summarized in the following figure

Model Study Plan Mineralogie
Model Study Plan Mineralogie
Image: IGW

Special features of mineralogical studies in Jena

  • Large proportion and broad spectrum of practical training (excursions, etc.)
  • Participation in current research (e.g. INFLUINSExternal link project)
  • Work in very well equipped laboratories
  • Large number and variety of geoscientifically interesting destinations in the immediate vicinity of Jena
  • Individual supervision
  • Interdisciplinarity with other subfields of geosciences (geology, geophysics) possible
  • Students can compile the study contents in the elective area according to their own interests
  • Close contacts to business and industry
  • Study at a comprehensive university offers a wide range of opportunities (also in other disciplines)

A course of study can be chosen, for example, as follows:

Master's program, major in mineralogy, example of a course of studypdf, 285 kb · de

Study Process Mineralogy
Study Process Mineralogy
Image: IGW

Prospects after graduation

The professional field of mineralogists shows a great variety and breadth and touches in many places the professional fields of geologists, geophysicists, chemists, physicists, material scientists, mining engineers, deposit scientists, water managers and building material scientists.

Future career fields are:

Basic research (mostly in institutes at universities and large-scale research facilities):

In traditional subjects (mineralogy, crystallography, petrology, geochemistry and cosmochemistry).
In technical subjects (materials science)

Application-related work in industry and in federal and state institutes:

  • Extraction and refining of basic and raw materials
  • Metallurgy
  • Building materials, ceramics, glass and refractory industries
  • Optical and electronic industry
  • Inorganic chemical industry
  • Waste disposal and landfill industry
  • Environmental protection