Petrology & Structural Geology

This course covers key concepts in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary petrology in combination with structural geology as follows: interpreting major and trace element and isotope variations in igneous rocks; origin and evolution of the major magma series; thermodynamics, kinetics and chemography of metamorphic reactions; tectonic setting of metamorphic terrains; principles of interpretations and classification of continental and marine sedimentary environments; kinematic principles, deformation mechanisms, microstructure, faulting and tectonic geomorphology.

DP requirements: Attendance at 80% of practicals and an average of 30% in all marked class work and tests.

Assessment: Class work counts 20%; one 4-hour practical examination written in June counts 30%; one 3-hour theory examination written in June counts 50%. Subminima of 40% required in practical and theory examination papers.

The University of Cape Town awards credits based on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) to determine course and contact hour recommendations per course. 1 NQF credit represents roughly 10 notional hours of work which includes study time, assignments and examinations. Notional hours may very per courses depending on the course level and modality therefore, CEA recommends using NQF credits as a basis to determine U.S. equivalencies (1 NQF=.222 semester credits)