Geological Engineering
The Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering (English) at Istanbul Technical University is a program that teaches students how to understand Earth — its materials, structure, processes and history. In this program, you learn geology, mineralogy, stratigraphy, tectonics, sedimentology, geophysics basics, geochemistry, and fieldwork techniques. You also study mathematics, physics, chemistry and basic engineering sciences to build a strong foundation. The curriculum combines theoretical lessons with lab work and field studies — helping you gain both scientific knowledge and practical skills to study Earth’s surface and subsurface, resource exploration, environmental geology, and geological analysis.
Studying at İTÜ gives you access to experienced faculty, modern labs, and opportunities for field-work and research. The English-taught program helps you prepare for international work or collaborations. Through courses and projects, you learn to analyse Earth processes, study rocks, soils, minerals, and understand how Earth evolves. If you are curious about Earth, enjoy science and nature, and want to help manage resources or study environmental and geological challenges — this program gives you a solid and meaningful foundation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Istanbul (İTÜ main campus)
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English track)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Geological Engineering, Earth Sciences, Mineral Resources & Geology, Environmental & Resource Geology
- Admission modus: Without additional admission restriction beyond standard entry requirements
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry & Intro to Geosciences
- Calculus / Mathematics I
- Physics I
- General Chemistry I
- Introduction to Earth Sciences & Geology Basics
Semester 2 – Core Natural Sciences & Geology Foundations
- Calculus II / Mathematics II
- Physics II or Materials / Earth Materials Basics
- General Chemistry II / Geochemistry Intro
- Mineralogy & Petrology I (Rocks and Minerals Basics)
Semester 3 – Structural Geology & Earth Processes
- Mineralogy & Petrology II
- Structural Geology & Tectonics Basics
- Geophysical Methods I / Earth Physics Basics
- Geology Laboratory / Rock & Mineral Analysis
Semester 4 – Sedimentology, Stratigraphy & Geochemistry
- Sedimentology & Sedimentary Geology
- Stratigraphy & Geological History
- Geochemistry & Geochemical Analysis
- Elective / Supporting Course
Semester 5 – Resource Geology & Environmental Geology
- Mineral Resources & Ore Geology
- Hydrogeology & Water Resources / Environmental Geology
- Geophysical Methods II / Geophysical Survey Techniques
- Elective Course
Semester 6 – Applied Geology & Field Techniques
- Geological Mapping & Field Methods
- Environmental & Engineering Geology
- Geotechnics / Soil & Rock Mechanics Basics
- Elective / Supporting Course
Semester 7 – Projects & Practical Work
- Geological Engineering Project I (Field Survey or Lab Work)
- Resource & Environmental Geology Case Studies
- Elective Course (specialization or interest)
- Internship or Field Practice / Geological Field Trips
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Professional Preparation
- Geological Engineering Project II (Thesis or Applied Study)
- Geological Risk & Hazard Analysis / Sustainability & Earth Resources Management
- Elective Course (Specialization or Advanced Topic)
Career Opportunities
Graduates can work as geologist, mineral-resource interpreter, environmental geologist, hydrogeologist, geotechnical engineer, field survey engineer, rock and soil mechanics engineer, environment & resource consultant, researcher in Earth sciences, or project engineer in mining, construction, environmental or resource sectors. They may find jobs in mining companies, research institutes, environmental and geological survey agencies, construction and geotechnical firms, water resource companies, consultancy and environmental management organisations, or in academia and research centers. Because Earth and geological knowledge is important worldwide, graduates — especially those fluent in English — may also get opportunities in international companies or global research settings.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Geological Engineering at ITU means studying the Earth’s structure, materials and processes through both science and engineering. You learn how to analyse rocks, minerals and geological formations, understand natural hazards, explore natural resources and study Earth’s history. Fieldwork, laboratory applications and real data analysis help you develop strong practical and analytical skills. The English-taught structure and ITU’s academic reputation also prepare you for international opportunities in research, environmental studies, and engineering projects.
This program opens many career paths because geological knowledge is needed in mining, environmental protection, construction, energy, natural hazard assessment and resource management. You can work on solving real problems such as groundwater protection, earthquake risk, environmental impact or sustainable resource use. If you enjoy nature, Earth sciences and want to help protect or manage our planet’s resources, this program gives you a meaningful, globally relevant and future-oriented foundation.
Contact Information
Istanbul Technical University – Department of Geological Engineering
ITU main campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 285 35 54
Email: geology@itu.edu.tr
Faculty / Student Affairs Office – Geological Engineering
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 285 30 30
Email: studentaffairs@jeoloji.itu.edu.tr
International Office – İstanbul Technical University
Ayazağa / Maslak Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 285 71 13
Email: international@itu.edu.tr
