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Programme Specification for the [add title of award] PLEASE NOTE.

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. This specification provides a source of information for students and prospective students seeking an understanding of the nature of the programme and may be used by the College for review purposes and sent to external examiners. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the course handbook or on-line at http://www /[please add weblink to programme]. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by the College and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency. 1. Awarding Institution: 2. Teaching Institution: Imperial College London Imperial College London

3. External Accreditation by Professional / Statutory Body: Not applicable 4. Name of Final Award (BEng / BSc / MEng etc): 5. Programme Title (e.g. Biochemistry with Management): 6. Name of Department / Division:

MSc (and DIC)


MSc Petroleum Geophysics Dept. of Earth Science & Engineering Faculty of Engineering F6UM

7. Name of Faculty: 8. UCAS Code (or other coding system if relevant):

9. Relevant QAA Subject Benchmarking Group(s) and/or other external/internal reference points Engineering 10. Level(s) of programme within the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ): Bachelors (BSc, BEng, MBBS) Integrated Masters (MSci, MEng) Masters (MSc, MRes) 11. Mode of Study: Full-time 12. Language of Study: English 13. Date of production / revision of this programme specification (month/year): New course approved and launched in July 2008. 14. Educational aims/objectives of the programme: Level 6 Levels 6 and 7 Level 7

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

The programme aims/objectives are to: Produce graduates equipped either to pursue careers in the geophysical industry, or to continue studies for a more advanced degree in applied geophysics. Respond to the shortage of skilled geophysical personnel, both within oil companies and the service sectors. Attract graduates with a strong theoretical background in mathematics, the physical sciences, and engineering, to a career in geophysics. Provide advanced training for graduates who already have some experience of applied geophysics, but seek to further their understanding and skills in this field. Provide a solid grounding in the physical, geological and production concepts required to understand and exploit geophysical applications at all stages, from exploration, through to development and production. Emphasise the importance and value of quantitative applications of geophysical methods. Encourage and develop interdisciplinary skills across all aspects of hydrocarbon exploration and production. Promote an innovative and creative approach to geophysical applications, and prepare students for future advances in geophysical technology. Provide the skills needed to undertake independent research projects both in industry and within the university environment

15. Programme Learning Outcomes

1. Knowledge and Understanding Knowledge and Understanding of : modern geophysical methods for analysing hydrocarbon reservoirs geological concepts for understanding the formation of reservoir rocks and structures engineering concepts for hydrocarbon production and development physical basis of measurable rock properties the interdependency of geophysics and rock physics with other geoscience subjects state-of-the-art seismic methods, including 2D, 3D, 4D and continuous monitoring techniques standard and advanced quantitative analysis tools used in the geophysical analysis of hydrocarbon reservoirs modern petroleum industry methods and practices management and communication skills research techniques, including the requirement to generate an independent piece of research 2. Skills and other Attributes Intellectual Skills: understand the connection between fundamental physical properties and the nature of different geological formations, especially with regard to hydrocarbon reservoirs analyse and solve problems using a multidisciplinary approach, particularly with reference to geological and engineering considerations apply professional judgements to balance the costs, effort and value of geophysical data for hydrocarbon exploration, development and production think innovatively and independently recognise emerging opportunities and technologies plan, generate and complete a programme of independent research

Practical Skills :

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

plan and execute effective strategies for determining useful reservoir properties using geophysical methods use advanced geophysical techniques to establish the geological nature of prospective and productive hydrocarbon provinces obtain quantitative information on rock properties, including estimates of uncertainties in the results generate algorithms from prescribed equations and analysis methods manage resources and time use the scientific literature effectively

Transferable Skills:

communicate effectively through oral presentations supported by Powerpoint slides work in groups and develop interpersonal skills understand decision processes that depend on an appreciation of technical and practical considerations from other disciplines transfer relevant understanding, techniques and solutions from one discipline to another work with a wide range of software across a range of disciplines

16. The following reference points were used in creating this programme specification: FHEQ, Course Handbook, Subject Benchmark Statements, European Higher Education Area, GSEPS, Advisory Board (consisting of Industry consultants) and External Examiners

17. Programme structure and features, curriculum units (modules), ECTS assignment and award requirements:

Year One:
Overview The course is managed by Professor Helmut Jakubowicz (PGS Professor of Petroleum Geophysics), and is a revised and updated version of an earlier MSc programme in Petroleum Geophysics offered at the College. The course complements two other petroleum-related MSc programmes (Petroleum Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering) with which it shares just over one third of its content. In the oil and gas industry, petroleum geophysics, geoscience and engineering increasingly operate as three aspects of an integrated discipline; the structure of the Petroleum Geophysics course reflects this trend, and extends the breadth of petroleum-related offerings available at the Department of Earth Science and Engineering. Resources available with the Department provide access to over 20 specialist internal and external staff with over 160 years of cumulative industrial experience. The programme will also benefit from contributions from additional recruits and industry professionals. The course will run for 12 months and is aimed at providing the necessary background for employment in the oil and gas industry, as well as providing an in-depth study and consolidation for those The course has three principal elements: Formal lectures, problem classes, laboratory and computer exercises. These take place on a full-time, structured basis from October to March in the normal academic terms. During the taught course, students are taken on field trips, including a visit to the Wessex Basin. Formal examinations are conducted in the first week of the Summer.

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

Group project work. Students engage in group exercises in teams of about five to six students. There are two distinct projects. The first, held at the end of Term 1, is shared with the Petroleum Engineering and Petroleum Geoscience MSc courses. It involves an integrated study of the evaluation and development of part of an oil field (usually the Wytch Farm Field in the UKCS). The second, held at the end of Term 2, involves processing and, or, quantitative analysis of a seismic dataset. This latter project may also be carried out in conjunction with the Petroleum Geoscience MSc course. The objective of the group projects is to consolidate the material provided in the formal lectures and coursework, as well as to integrate the separate subjects. Data for the projects are analysed with prevailing commercial software. The projects are assessed by presentations and reports. Individual research projects. After formal examinations and the presentation of group work in May, students move on to individual research type projects. These are submitted at the beginning of September and are examined both as a report and by an oral presentation in mid-September. Projects may be selected by the candidate, planned in cooperation with industrial sponsors or allocated by the Department. Educational Aims of the Programme The programme aims to: Produce graduates equipped either to pursue careers in the geophysical industry, or to continue studies for a more advanced degree in applied geophysics. Respond to the shortage of skilled geophysical personnel, both within oil companies and the service sectors. Attract graduates with a strong theoretical background in mathematics, the physical sciences, and engineering, to a career in geophysics. Provide advanced training for graduates who already have some experience of applied geophysics, but seek to further their understanding and skills in this field. Provide a solid grounding in the physical, geological and production concepts required to understand and exploit geophysical applications at all stages, from exploration, through to development and production. Emphasise the importance and value of quantitative applications of geophysical methods. Encourage and develop interdisciplinary skills across all aspects of hydrocarbon exploration and production. Promote an innovative and creative approach to geophysical applications, and prepare students for future advances in geophysical technology. Provide the skills needed to undertake independent research projects both in industry and within the university environment.

Programme Outcomes - the programme provides opportunities for postgraduate students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas. Knowledge and Understanding A. Knowledge and Understanding 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. modern geophysical methods for analysing hydrocarbon reservoirs geological concepts for understanding the formation of reservoir rocks and structures engineering concepts for hydrocarbon production and development physical basis of measurable rock properties the interdependency of geophysics and rock physics with other geoscience subjects state-of-the-art seismic methods, including 2D, 3D, 4D and continuous monitoring techniques

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

7. standard and advanced quantitative analysis tools used in the geophysical analysis of hydrocarbon reservoirs 8. modern petroleum industry methods and practices 9. management and communication skills 10. research techniques, including the requirement to generate an independent piece of research B Intellectual (thinking) skills - able to: 1. understand the connection between fundamental physical properties and the nature of different geological formations, especially with regard to hydrocarbon reservoirs 2. analyse and solve problems using a multidisciplinary approach, particularly with reference to geological and engineering considerations 3. apply professional judgements to balance the costs, effort and value of geophysical data for hydrocarbon exploration, development and production 4. think innovatively and independently 5. recognise emerging opportunities and technologies 6. plan, generate and complete a programme of independent research

C Practical skills able to: 1. plan and execute effective strategies for determining useful reservoir properties using geophysical methods 2. use advanced geophysical techniques to establish the geological nature of prospective and productive hydrocarbon provinces 3. obtain quantitative information on rock properties, including estimates of uncertainties in the results 4. generate algorithms from prescribed equations and analysis methods 5. manage resources and time 6. use the scientific literature effectively D Transferable skills able to: 1. communicate effectively through oral presentations supported by Powerpoint slides 2. work in groups and develop interpersonal skills 3. understand decision processes that depend on an appreciation of technical and practical considerations from other disciplines 4. transfer relevant understanding, techniques and solutions from one discipline to another 5. work with a wide range of software across a range of disciplines

Teaching/learning methods and strategies Formal lectures, problem classes, laboratory and computer exercises. These take place on a fulltime, structured basis from October to March during the normal academic terms. Acquisition of A1 to A8 is through a combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory work, computer-based work, coursework and attendance at a number of skills workshops. Students are also taken on field trips to reinforce geological concepts, as well as geophysical and industry practice. Group project work. Students carry out two group exercises. The first involves an integrated study of the evaluation and development of part of an oil field (e.g. the Wytch Farm field in the UKCS). This interrelates separate subjects taught in formal lectures in relation to A1-8, and develops skills for A9 and A10. Students combine with cohorts from the Petroleum Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering MSc courses to form multidisciplinary groups of about five or six that reproduce the elements of an asset team; this reinforces the importance of synergy and collaboration between the different disciplines. The second group project involves processing or quantitative analysis of a seismic

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

dataset. This reproduces detailed geophysical analysis that might be carried out by an oil company or a contractor. Data for both projects are analysed with the latest commercial software. Field work. Students are taken to locations that provide practical examples of working petroleum systems and, or, analogies for petroleum-related geology. They are required to carry practical exercises and keep accurate records of their observations, and are taught to recognise the implications of outcrops and surface geological expressions for subsurface geological analysis. They may also participate in geophysical data acquisition and analysis. This illustrates the difficulties and challenges of obtaining reliable data, and teaches them to evaluate data in the context of data acquisition limitations. Individual research projects. After formal examinations at the end of April, students work on individual research projects in support of aspects of A1-7, as well as A8-10. These are submitted at the beginning of September and are examined both as a report, and by oral presentation to an industrial audience in mid-September. Projects may be selected by the candidate, planned in cooperation with industrial sponsors or allocated by the Department. Additional material. Students are provided with recommendations for, and access to, independent reading, as well as computer facilities to supplement and consolidate what is being taught and learned. They also attend the international meeting of the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers. These resources support all aspects of A1-8, as well as A10. Assessment. This is based on two considerations: Examinations. All candidates take five 3-hour examinations at the beginning of the Summer term on subjects covered during the course. Marks from the written examination comprise 50% of the total final mark. The group project reports are assessed with allocations of marks for the oral presentations, as well as effort given to the group by the student (25% of the final marks). Individual research projects. Individual research projects are assessed by a report, a poster and a presentation of 20 minutes (plus 10 minutes for questions) to the examiners and representatives from the oil industry. The individual research project constitutes the final 25% of the examination marks. Students on the programme can have a variety of backgrounds, but should be especially strong in mathematics, physics and quantitative methods. In many cases, their previous exposure to, and knowledge of, geology and engineering will be limited. Students are challenged by the breadth of topics, as well as their inherent linkage through the core discipline. Intellectual skills are developed through the teaching and learning methods outlined in Section 12. Skills B1-3 are supported by A1-8, while B4-6 are supported by standard classroom work, but also most particularly by A10. These latter skills are also reinforced through field trips, as well as exposure to industry presentations and fora. The independent project plays a key role in requiring the candidates to apply and extend the knowledge they have acquired in the context of a significant problem. Assessment is through the coursework, unseen written examinations, project reports and presentations described in Section 12. Further details are also provided in Section 13.

Skills C1-4 are taught through classroom and laboratory work, together with the study of case histories. Extensive use is also made of advanced, specialised commercial software, thereby providing training in current industry practice; this supports C1-3. Specific tools include geophysical modelling methods, data processing packages, as well as interpretation, mapping, and software for extracting quantitative information from geophysical measurements. C4 is addressed by access to analysis methods in the form of MATLAB routines, and, or, Excel spreadsheets. Students are also encouraged to develop their own analysis schemes and tools in these environments, and may incorporate results from them in their projects.

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

C5 and C6 are key components of both the group and individual research projects. Although students receive support from mentors and supervisors on their projects, they are expected to work both independently, as well as, where appropriate, as part of a team. Students are briefed with the help of Library staff on the use of online bibliographic indices to access primary sources and the needs of C6. Skill D1 is a core item for the group and individual research projects, while D2 is supported through the group projects and laboratory work. Since the programme partly overlaps with both the Petroleum Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering MSc degrees, students are exposed to key concepts and practices from those disciplines in addition to their own core subject. Knowledge and practice from those fields are also reinforced by group projects in which team members are drawn from all the different disciplines. This supports Skills D3 and D4. Students on the Petroleum Geophysics course are expected to engage directly with data, as well as to adopt and develop a quantitative approach to analysis. They are encouraged to apply this ethos across all parts of the curriculum, including those parts which are shared with other disciplines. This fosters skills D3-D5. Term 1 Introduction to Petroleum Geology Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geophysics I Teaching hours and methods: 15 hours (15 hours lectures) Description: The module provides students who have no prior background in geology, with an introduction to basic geological concepts. Assessment: exam (1 question on the Petroleum Geophysics I paper) Module provided by, and shared with, MSc Petroleum Engineering

Rock Properties Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Engineering Teaching hours and methods: 6 hours (6 hours lectures) Description: This module covers the fundamental definitions of reservoir rock properties related to hydrocarbon exploration and production, as well as the concept of scales in rock properties, and the effect of heterogeneity. It also describes theoretical relationships and empirical correlations between the storage and transport properties of reservoir rocks. Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Engineering paper) Module provided by, and shared with, the Petroleum Engineering, and Petroleum Geoscience MSc courses

Fundamentals of Petroleum Engineering Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Engineering Paper Teaching hours and methods: 9 hours lectures Description: The module provides an introduction to basic concepts and techniques in reservoir engineering, including well testing and flow in porous media. Assessment: exam (1 question on the Petroleum Engineering paper) Module provided by, and shared with, the Petroleum Geoscience MSc course

Petroleum Engineering Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Engineering

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

Teaching hours and methods: 42 hours lectures Description: This module is an amalgamation of four modules that already form part of the MSc programme in Petroleum Engineering: Hydrocarbons in Place and Reserves (6 hours), Reservoir Fluids (12 hours), and Production Mechanisms and Flow in Porous Media (24 hours). The module aims to provide students with a basic background in petroleum engineering in support of both the Production Geoscience Project, as well as reservoir characterisation, and 4D seismic studies, both of which are covered in Term 2. It covers the principles of reserve/resource categorisation, introduces the fundamental physical properties of reservoir fluids, and describes the physical and mathematical basis for understanding the flow of multiphase fluids and gases in porous media. Assessment: exam (2 questions on Petroleum Engineering paper) Module comprising three modules shared with the MSc Petroleum Engineering course

Geostatistics Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geophysics Teaching hours and methods: 12 hours lectures Description: The module provides an introduction to the principles and applications of geostatistics, and equips students with the necessary skills to apply geostatistics in building both deterministic and stochastic reservoir models. Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Geophysics I paper) Module provided by, and shared with, the MSc Petroleum Geoscience course

Signal Processing and Inverse Theory Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geophysics Teaching hours and methods: 18 hours (12 hours lectures, 6 hours practicals) Description: The module provides a background in time series analysis and inversion for the analysis of geophysical data. The module highlights the fundamental concepts of convolution, correlation and deconvolution, together with least squares analysis, and the principles of model parameter estimation from geophysical data. Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Geophysics II paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course

Petrophysics Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geology and Petrophysics Teaching hours and methods: 30 hours (18 hours lectures, 12 hours practicals) Description: The module covers the theory and practice of core analysis and open-hole log interpretation. Students gain an understanding of the fundamental physics involved in various petrophysical measurements from cores and borehole logs, and are taught to conduct basic log interpretation to determine petrophysical parameters such as lithology, porosity, fluid saturation and permeability prediction. The module also provides hands-on experience in using commercial petrophysical software. Assessment: coursework (question sheet), exam (2 questions on Petroleum Geology and Petrophysics paper) Module already provided by, and to be shared with, the Petroleum Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering MSc courses

Seismic Techniques Course unit/examination paper: Advanced Seismic Methods Teaching hours and methods: 33 hours (21 hours lectures, 12 hours practicals) Description: This module provides an integrated introduction to the acquisition, processing and interpretation of 2D and 3D seismic datasets. The module has a particularly strong practical

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

emphasis, with many sessions conducted on an industry-standard computer workstation network. These techniques are applied in the Production Geoscience Group Project. Assessment: exam (1 compulsory question on Advanced Seismic Methods paper) Module provided by, and shared with, the MSc Petroleum Geoscience course

Seismic Interpretation Course unit/examination paper: N/A Teaching hours and methods: 18 hours (9 hours lectures, 9 hours practicals) Description: This module provides an integrated introduction to the interpretation of 2D and 3D seismic datasets usinmg workstation systems. The module has a particularly strong practical emphasis, with many sessions conducted on an industry-standard computer workstation network. These techniques are applied in the Production Geoscience Group Project. Assessment: N/A Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course

Basin Analysis Course unit/examination paper: Exploration Geoscience for Geophysicists Teaching hours and methods: 18 hours (9 hours lectures, 9 hours practicals) Description: This module provides an introduction to basin scale geology and seismic interpretation. Assessment: exam (1question on Exploration Geoscience paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course

Wessex Basin Fieldtrip Course unit/examination paper: Production Geoscience Teaching hours and methods: 5 days fieldwork Description: The field trip has two aims. (1) To consolidate the classroom-taught concepts of development geology, with an emphasis on the role of outcrop analogues in understanding subsurface reservoirs. The students document outcrops of units that are direct analogues to the reservoir studied several weeks later in the Production Geoscience Group Project (Sherwood sandstones, Wytch Farm Field, Wessex Basin). (2) To introduce the different elements of petroleum plays in an active hydrocarbon basin. Assessment: coursework (essay under exam conditions) Module provided by, and shared with, the MSc Petroleum Engineering and MSc Petroleum Geoscience courses

Production Geoscience Group Project Course unit/examination paper: Group Project Teaching hours and methods: 15 days project work Description: The project provides students with the opportunity to combine with cohorts from the Petroleum Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering MSc courses and perform the activities of an asset team. Assessment: Group presentation to the staff and marked for the reports.

Term 2 Seismic Interpretation of Sedimentary Basins Course unit/examination paper: Exploration Geoscience for Geophysicists Teaching hours and methods: 15 hours (5 hours lectures, 10 hours practicals)

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

Description: The module expands on the Basin Analysis module by providing hands-on experience of interpreting 2D and 3D seismic datasets from a variety of basin types. The petroleum systems associated with each basin setting are emphasised. The course aims to expose students to a wide range of tectonic and stratigraphic styles, encompassing those found in the major hydrocarbon provinces around the world. Assessment: exam (1 question on Exploration Geoscience for Geophysicists paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course

Rock Physics Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geophysics Teaching hours and methods: 18 hours (12 hours lectures, 6 hours practicals) Description: The module deals with the physical basis for the properties that can be measured by geophysical techniques. Properties of interest include compressional and shear seismic velocities (both isotropic and anisotropic). The influence of fluids is of key importance, and covered in detail. Non-seismic parameters, in particular resistivity, are also included. Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Geophysics II paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course.

Near-Surface and Non-Seismic Geophysical Methods Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geophysics Teaching hours and methods: 15 hours (9 hours lectures, 6 hours practicals) Description: This module describes near-surface and non-seismic methods, for reservoir mapping and characterisation. Methods covered include seismic refraction analysis for nearsurface analysis, as well as gravity, magnetic and electromagnetic techniques for reservoir location and identification. Assessment: exam (1 question on Exploration Geoscience paper) Module unique to MSc Petroleum Geophysics course.

Reservoir Performance Prediction Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Engineering Teaching hours and methods: 18 hours (12 hours lectures, 6 hours practicals) Description: This module presents the principles behind understanding and prediciting reservoir production Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Engineering paper) Module provided by, and shared with MSc Petroleum Engineering course

Petroleum Economics Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Engineering Teaching hours and methods: 15 hours (9 hours lectures, 6 hours practicals) Description: This module covers the basic economics of reservoir development and production. Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Engineering paper) Module provided by, and shared with, MSc Petroleum Engineering course.

Advanced Seismic Acquisition and Survey Design Course unit/examination paper: Advanced Seismic Methods Teaching hours and methods: 24 hours (12 hours lectures, 12 hours practicals) Description: This module deals with the details of modern 2D, 3D and 4D seismic acquisition for both land and marine environments, as well as vertical seismic profiles (VSPs). Navigation,

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

seismic sources and receivers, as well as recording equipment, logistics and methodologies are covered, together with the basics of seismic survey design. Assessment: I question on the Advanced Seismic Methods paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course.

Advanced Seismic Data Processing and Imaging Course unit/examination paper: Advanced Seismic Methods Teaching hours and methods: 36 hours (12 hours lectures, 24 hours practicals) Description: This module describes advanced seismic data processing methods, and provides practical demonstrations of their application to exploration, field development, and reservoir management. Assessment: coursework and written examination (2 questions on Advanced Seismic Methods paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course.

Quantitative Seismic Analysis and Inversion Course unit/examination paper: Petroleum Geophysics II Teaching hours and methods: 24 hours (12 hours lectures, 12 hours practicals) Description: This module presents modern approaches to the analysis of seismic data. These include tomographic inversion, trace inversion, AVO analysis, and waveform inversion. Assessment: exam (1 question on Petroleum Geophysics II paper) Module unique to the MSc Petroleum Geophysics course.

Petroleum Geophysics Group Project Course unit/examination paper: Group Project Teaching hours and methods: 12 days project work Description: The project provides students with the opportunity to process and carry out quantitative analysis on seismic data. Assessment: oral presentation (20%), poster (10%) and written thesis (70%)

Term 3 and Summer

Seismic Acquisition Field Trip Course unit/examination paper: N/A Teaching hours and methods: 12 days fieldwork Description: The fieldtrip has two aims. (1) To consolidate the classroom-taught concepts of seismic data acquisition, specifically in the land environment. Students will join a field school in Colorado, the USA. Assessment: coursework Module unique to MSc Petroleum Geophysics course, with shared facilities provided by the Colorado School of Mines

Geology Field Trips Course unit/examination paper: N/A Teaching hours and methods: 12 days fieldwork

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

Description: The fieldtrip has two aims. (1) To consolidate the classroom-taught geological concepts, both at the basin scale, and for petroleum settings. Students will join two trips studying areas in Europe Assessment: coursework Module unique to MSc Petroleum Geophysics course, shared in part with undergraduate trips.

Independent Project Course unit/examination paper: Independent Project Teaching hours and methods: 83 days project work Description: The project provides students with the opportunity to study in depth a particular aspect of petroleum geophysics, thereby expanding the knowledge they have acquired during the taught courses. Students are expected to demonstrate independent thinking, critical and creative analysis, and sound technical judgment in their project work, and to manage both the technical analysis and time-management aspects of the project. It is our aim to place the majority of students into companies for the full duration of their projects. The remainder undertake projects within Imperial College. Assessment: oral presentation (20%), poster (10%) and written thesis (70%)

Course Assessment Assessment of the candidates is based on two separate considerations: examinations and research projects. Candidates achieving an overall mark of 70% and above in each of these two components of the course are considered for the award of a Master of Science Degree with Distinction. The details of the two assessment components are as follows: Examinations. All candidates take five 3-hour examinations on the subjects covered during the course at the beginning of the Summer term. These account for 60% of the examination marks. Individual examination papers are as follows: Advanced Seismic Methods Exploration Geoscience for Geophysicists Petroleum Engineering. Petroleum Geophysics II Petroleum Geophysics II Examiners Board Meetings Two Examiners' Board meetings are held; a preliminary meeting in the middle of June to consider the examination and coursework performance, and a meeting in September to consider all the results. Examiners Board Meetings Two Examiners' Board meetings are held; a preliminary meeting in the middle of June to consider the examination and coursework performance, and a final meeting in September to consider the overall results. Criteria for the Award of MSc Petroleum Geophysics Degree Results

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

Distinction: to be awarded where a candidate has achieved an aggregate mark of 70 per cent or greater across the programme as a whole, including a mark of 70 per cent or greater in each of the three elements of the course (i.e. coursework, examinations and independent project). Merit: to be awarded where a candidate has achieved an aggregate mark of 60 per cent or greater across the programme as a whole including a mark of 60 per cent or greater in each of the three elements of the course (i.e. coursework, examinations and independent project). Pass: to be awarded where a candidate has achieved an aggregate mark of 50 per cent or greater across the programme as a whole. Fail: results when a candidate has achieved an aggregate mark of less than 50 per cent or across the programme as a whole, and/or has failed to pass each of the three elements of the course. All candidates must pass at least three of the five examinations papers. Recommendations for final degree results are at the discretion of the Examinations Board. Prizes The following prizes are awarded at the end of the course: The BP Prize: awarded to the student achieving the highest overall marks. The PGS Prize: awarded to the student achieving the highest mark in the individual project element of the course.

18. Support provided to students to assist learning (including collaborative students, where appropriate). Support for students and their learning: One week induction programme for orientation, introduction to library and information technology, and the Department. MSc Student Handbook, which includes descriptions of each module. Lecturers and staff drawn from internal and external sources. A large community of postgraduate research students and postdoctoral research workers who work in the general area of applied geophysics. The research programmes in the department provide general as well as specific support. Library and other learning resources and facilities. Dedicated computing facilities. Extensive range of state-of-the-art software for data analysis. Many visiting speakers from industry and elsewhere. Access to a seismic acquisition field school provided by an overseas institution or commercial organisation. Financial support from industry-sponsored scholarships. Access to student counsellors on the South Kensington site. Access to Teaching and Learning Support Services, which provide assistance and guidance, e.g. on careers.

19. Criteria for admission:

The minimum qualification for admission is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree in Mathematics, Engineering or Physics (with strong Maths background) from a UK academic

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

institution or an equivalent overseas qualification with relevant experience. Where an applicant has a lesser degree qualification but has substantial work experience and outstanding references, the Course Director may, exceptionally, make a special case for admission; few such applications are made, and are subject to the approval of the Graduate School 1st or Upper 2nd class
20. Processes used to select students:

Selection is primarily based on the information supplied in the application and supporting documentation, with particular weight being given to the reference letters, work experience and academic history. All applications are reviewed by the Course Director. UK and EU candidates are interviewed for scholarships awarded by the Industry in the month of February.
21. Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning a) Methods for review and evaluation of teaching, learning, assessment, the curriculum and outcome standards: The external examiner system and Boards of Examiners are central to the process by which the College monitors the reliability and validity of its assessment procedures and academic standards. Boards of Examiners comment on the assessment procedures within the College and may suggest improvements for action by relevant departmental teaching Committees. The Faculty Studies Committees and the Graduate Schools Postgraduate Quality Committees review and consider the reports of external examiners and accrediting bodies and conduct periodic (normally quinquennial) and internal reviews of teaching provision. Regular reviews ensure that there is opportunity to highlight examples of good practice and ensure that recommendations for improvement can be made. At programme level, the Head of Department/Division has overall responsibility for academic standards and the quality of the educational experience delivered within the department or division. Most of the Colleges undergraduate programmes are accredited by professional engineering and science bodies or by the General Medical Council. Accreditation provides the College with additional assurance that its programmes are of an appropriate standard and relevant to the requirement of industry and the professions. Some postgraduate taught courses are also accredited. b) Committees with responsibility for monitoring and evaluating quality and standards: The Senate oversees the quality assurance and regulation of degrees offered by the College. It is charged with promoting the academic work of the College, both in teaching and research, and with regulating and supervising the education and discipline of the students of the College. It has responsibility for approval of changes to the Academic Regulations, major changes to degree programmes and approval of new programmes. The Quality Assurance Advisory Committee (QAAC) is the main forum for discussion of QA policy and the regulation of degree programmes at College level. QAAC develops and advises the Senate on the implementation of codes of practice and procedures relating to quality assurance and audit of quality and arrangements necessary to ensure compliance with national and international standards. QAAC also considers amendments to the Academic Regulations before making recommendations for change to the Senate. It also maintains an overview of the statistics on completion rates, withdrawals, examination irregularities (including cases of plagiarism), student appeals and disciplinaries. The Faculty Studies Committees and Graduate School Postgraduate Quality Committees are the major vehicle for the quality assurance of undergraduate / postgraduate courses respectively. Their remit includes: setting the standards and framework, and overseeing the processes of quality assurance, for the areas within their remit; monitoring the provision and quality of e-learning; undertaking reviews of new and existing courses; noting minor changes in existing programme

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

curricula approved by Departments; approving new modules, changes in module titles, major changes in examination structure and programme specifications for existing programmes; and reviewing proposals for new programmes, and the discontinuation of existing programmes, and making recommendations to Senate as appropriate. The Faculty Teaching Committees maintain and develop teaching strategies and promote interdepartmental and inter-faculty teaching activities to enhance the efficiency of teaching within Faculties. They also identify and disseminate examples of good practice in teaching. Departmental Teaching Committees have responsibility for the approval of minor changes to course curricula and examination structures and approve arrangements for course work. They also consider the details of entrance requirements and determine departmental postgraduate student numbers. The Faculty Studies Committees and the Graduate School Postgraduate Quality Committees receive regular reports from the Departmental Teaching Committees.

c) Mechanisms for providing prompt feedback to students on their performance in course work and examinations and processes for monitoring that these named processes are effective: Written feedback is given to students when their coursework is returned. Students in particular need of academic help discuss written feedback with lecturer concerned. On fieldtrips we provide regular feedback, including discussing the results of formal exercises with individual students. This includes individual discussion sessions, either in the evenings or in the field. Group feedback is provided at the end of each major group exercise, partly by full-time staff and partly by visiting assessors (e.g. at the end of the Barrel Award in March). Written reports contain staff comments.

d) Mechanisms for gaining student feedback on the quality of teaching and their learning experience and how students are provided with feedback as to actions taken as a result of their comments: e) course questionnaire evaluation of taught components after each module; meeting of individual students with course organisers to discuss exams, research project and career aims; viva with External Examiner. Mechanisms for monitoring the effectiveness of the personal tutoring system:

Feedback from the student/staff committee help assess the effectiveness of the personal tutoring system. f) Mechanisms for recognising and rewarding excellence in teaching and in pastoral care:

Staff are encouraged to reflect on their teaching, in order to introduce enhancements and develop innovative teaching methods. Each year College awards are presented to academic staff for outstanding contributions to teaching, pastoral care or research supervision. A special award for Teaching Innovation, available each year, is presented to a member of staff who has demonstrated an original and innovative approach to teaching. Nominations for these awards come from across the College and students are invited both to nominate staff and to sit on the deciding panels. g) Staff development priorities for this programme include: active research programme in Petroleum Geophysics and Reservoir Engineering staff appraisal scheme and institutional staff development courses; updating professional and IT/computing developments. 22. Regulation of Assessment a) Assessment Rules and Degree Classification:

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

For postgraduate taught programmes: The Pass Mark for postgraduate taught courses is 50%. In order to be awarded a result of merit, a candidate must obtain an aggregate mark of 60% or greater; a result of distinction requires an aggregate mark of 70% or greater. Where appropriate, a Board of Examiners may award a result of merit where a candidate has achieved an aggregate mark of 60% or greater across the programme as a whole AND has obtained a mark of 60% or greater in each element with the exception of one element AND has obtained a mark of 50% or greater in this latter element. Where appropriate, a Board of Examiners may award a result of distinction where a candidate has achieved an aggregate mark of 70% or greater across the programme as a whole AND has obtained a mark of 70% or greater in each element with the exception of one element AND has obtained a mark of 60% or greater in this latter element. b) Marking Schemes for undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes: The Pass Mark for all undergraduate modules is 40%. From October 2008 entry all undergraduates are required to pass all their course units to progress to the next year. The Pass Mark for all postgraduate taught course modules is 50%. Students must pass all elements in order to be awarded a degree. c) Processes for dealing with mitigating circumstances: For postgraduate taught programmes: A candidate for a Masters degree who is prevented owing to illness or the death of a near relative or other cause judged sufficient by the Graduate Schools from completing at the normal time the examination or Part of the examination for which he/she has entered may, at the discretion of the Examiners, (a) Enter the examination in those elements in which he/she was not able to be examined on the next occasion when the examination is held in order to complete the examination, or (b) be set a special examination in those elements of the examination missed as soon as possible and/or be permitted to submit any work prescribed (e.g. report) at a date specified by the Board of Examiners concerned. The special examination shall be in the same format as specified in the course regulations for the element(s) missed. Applications, which must be accompanied by a medical certificate or other statement of the grounds on which the application is made, shall be submitted to the Academic Registrar who will submit them to the Board of Examiners. d) Processes for determining degree classification for borderline candidates: For postgraduate taught programmes: Candidates should only be considered for promotion to pass, merit or distinction if their aggregate mark is within 2.5% of the relevant borderline. Nevertheless, candidates whom the Board deems to have exceptional circumstances may be considered for promotion even if their aggregate mark is more than 2.5% from the borderline. In such cases the necessary extra marks should be credited to bring the candidates aggregate mark into the higher range. e) Role of external examiners: The primary duty of external examiners is to ensure that the degrees awarded by the College are consistent with that of the national university system. External examiners are also responsible for approval of draft question papers, assessment of examination scripts, projects and coursework (where appropriate) and in some cases will attend viva voce and clinical examinations. Although external examiners do not have power of veto their views carry considerable weight and will be

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

treated accordingly. External examiners are required to attend each meeting of the Board of Examiners where recommendations on the results of individual examinations are considered. External examiners are required to write an annual report to the Rector of Imperial College which may include observations on teaching, course structure and course content as well as the examination process as a whole. The College provides feedback to external examiners in response to recommendations made within their reports. 23. Indicators of Quality and Standards: Favourable comments by External Examiners and employers of graduates. Regular reviews by the Graduate School of Engineering and Physical Science Management Committee. First destination data for MSc graduates, showing a high proportion find employment with major oil and gas companies (60%), major oil service companies (30%) and oil and gas consulting companies (10%).

24. Key sources of information about the programme can be found in: Postgraduate Prospectus, Imperial College London: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/earthscienceandengineering/courses/postgraduatecourses

Earth Science & Engineering Department website: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/earthscienceandengineering/courses/postgraduatecourses/mscgeophy sics

MSc and DIC (F6UM)

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