PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME

To develop knowledge, skills and competences in the field of Geophysics relevant to various entrepreneurial and employment possibilities in Zimbabwe and other mining economies in the region, Africa and abroad. To prepare students for higher degree studies in Geosciences, and to be environmental stewards required for sustainable exploitation of mineral resources.

2.0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Normal Entry: At least 5 Ordinary Levels including English Language and Physics; two Advanced level passes including Mathematics and Physics, or Mathematics and Chemistry.

Special Entry: N/A

Mature Entry: At least 25 years of age plus 5 years relevant experience and at least 5 Ordinary level subjects including English Language and Mathematics

3.0 PROGRAMME CHARACTERISTICS

Areas of Study: Potential Fields, Electrical Methods, Electromagnetic Methods, Seismic Methods, Borehole Geophysics, Reconnaissance Techniques, Structural Geology, Mineral Exploration, Geoscience Mapping

Specialist Focus: Geophysics for understanding the genesis and predictive discovery of mineral deposits, groundwater resources, environmental and geotechnical investigations for eventual sustainable exploitation of resources in a holistic manner leading to sustainable economic development.

Orientation: Strong hands-on components, including laboratory and field activities. A special emphasis on industrial related techniques and efficient computer-aided methodologies.

Distinctive Features: The ‘Exploration’ tag refers to Geophysics beyond mere academic

curiosity, but geophysics for direct exploitation of resources, creation of wealth, sustainable economic development and empowerment of society through practical application of sound theoretical foundations.

4.0 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER EDUCATION

Employability: Employment and entrepreneurship in mining and mineral exploration at all levels including top management.

Government; Mining companies; Engineering companies; Consulting companies; Research institutions and Universities.

 

Further Studies: Master’s and Doctoral studies in Geophysics or other Geoscience areas.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Level 1 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
CS101	Communication Skills	6
HGEOL116	Computers for Geoscientists	12
HEGP113	Foundations of Physics	12
HEGP114	Fundamentals of Geology	12
HEGP115	Mathematics for Geophysicists I	12
HEGP116	Introduction to Geophysics	12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HEGP121	GPS and Remote Sensing	12
HEGP122	Mathematics for Geophysicists II	12
HEGP123	Electricity & Magnetism	12
HEGP124	Thermodynamics	12
HGEOL124	Structural Geology	12
HMINE124	Computer Programming	12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
GS201	Introduction to Gender Studies	6
ENT131	Entrepreneurship	6
HEGP210	Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology	12
HEGP211	Gravity and GPS Methods	12
HEGP212	Magnetic Methods	12
HEGP214	Seismic Wave and Ray Theory	12

Level 2 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HEGP220	Field Geophysics	12
HEGP221	Electromagnetic Methods	12
HEGP222	Mathematics for Geophysicists III	12
HEGP223	Induced Polarization and Resistivity Methods	12
HEGP224	Seismic Exploration Methods	12
HGEOL223	Geological Field Mapping	12

Level 3 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
HEGP300	Work-Related Learning Placement Report	10

Level 3 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HEGP310	Academic Supervisor’s Report	40
HEGP311	Students’ Report	45
HEGP314	Employers’ Assessment Report	25

Level 4 Semester 1

Code	Module Description	Credits
HEGP410	Potential Fields & Electrical Methods Data Processing	12
HEGP411	Research Methods and Technical Writing	12
HEGP412	Reconnaissance Techniques	12
HEGP413	Industrial Applications of Exploration Geophysics	12
HGEOL414	Petrophysics and Formation Evaluation	12

Level 4 Semester 2

Code	Module Description	Credits
HEGP420	Seismic Data Processing	12
HMINE412	Mining Law	12
HEGP421	Dissertation	36

MODULE SYNOPSES

CS101 Communication Skills

Introduction to communication; Pre-writing skills; Writing skills; Whole essay construction; Scientific and technical writing; Reflective, critical and evaluative thinking; Teamwork skills.

HGEOL116 Computers for Geoscientists

This is an introductory module to computers for engineering students. The module focuses on basic computer concepts, data processing cycle, and number systems. Computer Arithmetic. Types of computers. Computer peripherals. System software and application software. Data communications. Introduction to IBM PCs. Windows operating system. Introduction to application packages; Word processors, Spreadsheet, Graphics. Word Processing using MS Word. Spreadsheet using MS Excel. The Internet.

HEGP113 Physics Foundations

This introductory module to physics is meant to introduce fundamental physics concepts especially meant for those who did not do A Level Physics and others to review physics principles critical for the geophysics modules. The topics include Dimensional Analysis, Classical Mechanics, Heat and Gases and Waves.

HEGP114 Fundamentals of Geology

Internal structure of the Earth, mineralogy, crystallography, petrology, geochemistry, structural geology, tectonics, and stratigraphy.  

HEGP 115 Mathematics for Geophysicists 1

This module provides students with a critical understanding of Vector Algebra, Complex numbers, Introduction to Differential equations, Second order homogeneous linear differential equations with constant coefficients, First order differential equations, Inhomogeneous second order constant coefficient equations; Physics applications. Introduction to partial differential equations; and gradient vector of functions of 2 and 3 variables.

HEGP 116 Introduction to Geophysics

Basic characteristics of Earth, Earth geometry, Geochronology, Geological times, Radiometric dating, Seismology.

HEGP 121 GIS and Remote Sensing

Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Geographical Positioning System (GPS) and Remote Sensing (RS) techniques within the field of applications in geology, mining and environmental sciences, Map projections; datums and reference frames; cartographic principles; remotely sensed data, GIS software applications; surveying principles; GPS constellation and data structure; Differential GPS, ArcGIS basics.

HEGP 122 Mathematics for Geophysicists II

This module emphasizes fundamental mathematical principles required In understanding geophysics modules. The topics include Differentiation and integration; Ordinary Differential Equations; Vectors and Geometry; Matrices and Determinants; Solving Linear Equation Systems; Coordinate Transformations; Partial Derivatives; Fields and Differential Operators; Partial Differential Equations; Inverse problem

HEGP 123 Electricity & Magnetism

Field forces, Gauss’ Theorem, Monopole and Dipole sources, Electrostatics, Electric field, Capacitance, Magnetostatics, Biot-Savart Law, Ampere’s circuital law, Electromagnetic Induction, D.C. Circuits, and Transient Response.  

HMINE124 Computer Programming

Programming in BASIC, PASCAL, C, C++ and Visual Basic; Conditional and repetitive statements; Input and output; Simple functions; Program structure and organization; Introduction to classes and objects.

GS201 Introduction to Gender Studies

The module empowers the student with knowledge and skills that enable them to be gender sensitive in the university, workplace and all their social interactions. Topics covered include understanding gender, theories of gender inequalities, the historical development of gender, gender analysis, and gender issues in Zimbabwe. The module will also look at redressing gender imbalances, empowerment and strategies for creating a gender-responsive environment. Every student has to pass the module in order to graduate.

ENT131 Entrepreneurship

This module covers Business development; Marketing; Human resources management pricing; Government policies; Taxation of business; Case studies based on site visits; Preparation of a business plan; Technological entrepreneurship; and innovations competitions.

HEGP 210 Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology

Engineering Geology: Engineering classification and properties of rocks, rock masses, regolith and soils; Engineering geology in the built environment; Geological maps; Site investigations; Geo-hazards; Predictive and mitigation techniques for geohazards.

Hydrogeology: Water as a resource; Role of geology in groundwater exploration and management; Hydrological cycle; Recharge-discharge phenomena, Aquifer types and their characteristics, Groundwater flow, Aquifer tests, Geology and geophysics of groundwater exploration; Groundwater quality and contamination, Hydrogeology in the mining environment.

HEGP 211 Gravity and GPS Methods

The theory and application of gravity surveys, the link between geophysical properties controlling these methods and subsurface geological parameters, field procedures, informed interpretation of survey datasets, processing and interpretation of potential field data. Laboratories will focus on the processing of gridded potential field data, Forward modelling.

HEGP 212 Magnetic Methods

This module provides students with a critical understanding of magnetic methods. The topics include the theory and application of magnetic surveys, the link between geophysical properties controlling these methods and subsurface geological parameters, field procedures, informed interpretation of survey datasets, and processing and interpretation of potential field data. Laboratories will focus on the processing of gridded potential field data and forward modelling.

HEGP 214 Seismic Wave and Ray Theory

Foundations of wave theory necessary for seismic processing, imaging, AVO analysis and structural interpretation. Topics include Elasticity theory, Wave Equation, Reflection geometry and wave path curvature, Surface waves, Scattering theory, Head waves, S-waves and C-waves, Anisotropy, Wave theory concepts in processing, migration and imaging, Earthquake waves, elastic waves in solids, electromagnetic and hydromagnetic radiation, Seismic Reflection and Seismic Refraction.

HEGP 220 Field Geophysics

Field-based module with an emphasis on environmental, groundwater and mineral exploration applications. It consists of data collection, processing and interpretation. Field techniques used include Ground Probing Radar, Magnetic surveying, Gravimetry, Electrical Resistivity and Electromagnetic Methods. For computer based processing, students make use of modern mapping and geophysical software.

HEGP 221 Electromagnetic Methods

This module provides students with a critical understanding of higher frequency methods (electromagnetic techniques) Electromagnetic induction methods and Ground penetrating radar (GPR). Topics include Electromagnetics (frequency-domain and time-domain), Time domain induction, Time domain loop systems; The Very Low Frequency (VLF) technique. Magnetotellurics MT, AMT, CSAMT, Ground Penetrating Radar.  Laboratories will focus on the application of two electromagnetic geophysical methods: time domain reflectometry (TDR) and ground penetrating radar (GPR).

HEGP 222 Mathematics for Geophysicists III

Standard Integrals, Multiple Integrals, Introduction to line, surface and volume integrals in physics, Fourier series, Applications to solution of wave equation, Linear algebra, Linear maps and matrices, Application to simultaneous linear equations. Rank and inverse of matrix.

HEGP 223 Induced Polarization and Resistivity Methods

Resistivity, Induced Polarization, and Electromagnetics (frequency-domain and time-domain). Time domain induction, Time domain loop systems; The Very Low Frequency (VLF) technique. Magnetotellurics MT, AMT, CSAMT, Ground Penetrating Radar. Electrical surveys – Resistivity method, Induced polarisation (IP) and Self-potential (SP) method. Laboratories will focus on data acquisition, presentation and the processing of gridded geoelectric field data and forward modelling.

HEGP 224 Seismic Exploration Methods

Review of theories of seismic waves, recording, and data acquisition. Land refraction procedures. Data processing of refraction and reflection; Time signal analysis and inverse theory; Digital filtering and computer techniques in seismic data processing; Time and depth sections in model interpretation. Case histories.

HEGP300 Work-Related Learning Placement Report.

The module covers: The report of the student’s understanding of an organisation’s purpose, functions and their relations, operations and relationship between the organisation and other organisations

HEGP310 Work-Related Learning Report

This module provides students an opportunity to carry out a project during the work-related learning period. Students will record and maintain a logbook of daily activities done for at least eight months. They are required to submit a comprehensive industrial attachment report. A work-related learning research project supported by appropriate engineering drawings, and design charts or process charts is required. Students will be visited at their workplace at least twice by their lecturers.

HEGP311 Employer’s Assessment Report

This module provides an assessment done by the industrial supervisor during the period of work-related learning. The report comprises the tasks performed and the assessment or marks allocated. This will also be an overall view of the performance of the student during the whole period of attachment. This gives an overview from the industrial supervisor regarding the performance and conduct of the student.

HEGP314 Academic Supervisor’s Report

This module provides an assessment done by the academic supervisor during the period of work-related learning. The report comprises the tasks performed and the assessment or marks allocated. This will also be an overall view of the performance of the student during the whole period of attachment. This gives an overview from the academic supervisor regarding the performance and conduct of the student.

HEGP410 Potential Fields and Electrical Methods Data Processing

Fourier Transforms (FT), Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) and Time Series analysis. Fast Fourier transform application in window functions, Spectral analysis for global, regional and local data, Numerical solutions and digital applications of transforms and filters in the treatment of geophysics data. Geophysical data Imaging in gravity, magnetic, electromagnetic and electrical methods, modelling of different electromagnetic, gravity and magnetic datasets.  

HEGP411 Research Methods and Technical Writing

This module aims to equip students with scientific research and report writing skills to prepare them for dissertation writing, work-based report writing and writing for publications such as books, journals and magazines. The scientific research method and ethical aspects of writing and correct citation of published works are emphasised. This module is linked with the dissertation module as candidates are expected to choose dissertation topics and submit a complete research proposal

HEGP412 Reconnaissance Techniques

Airborne geophysics (electromagnetic, radiometric, aeromagnetic) surveys (theory, collection, processing, interpretation), Geochemistry, Regional Gravity and GPS survey. Students are expected to complete a mini-regional survey.

HEGP413 Industrial Applications of Exploration Geophysics

This is a field-based module with an emphasis on environmental and mineral exploration applications. The module is designed to build advanced practical skills in geophysical software development, commercial project proposal, geophysical project design, implementation, data processing, interpretation and report writing. It is built around linked commercial practical projects requested by mining clients.

HEGP414 Petrophysics and Formation Evaluation

Physical properties of rocks and fluids and the geophysical response to materials with those properties with direct applications to exploitation and geophysical modelling. The topics include, Reservoir environment, Elasticity of porous media, Velocity of rocks, Velocity of poorly consolidated rock, Velocity of carbonate, Hydrocarbon fluids properties, Seismic Rock Physics: basic methods of open-hole well log analysis, and logging suite choices. Basic petrophysical logging methods.

HEGP420 Seismic Data Processing

Discrete Fourier Analysis, Statistical Analysis of Geophysical Data, Digital Filters, Deconvolution, Seismic Modelling and Inversion, Principles of Migration, introduction to seismic data processing. Topics to be covered include statics corrections, filtering, velocity analysis, deconvolution, stacking and migration. The module has a field component to record seismic data.

HMINE412 Mining Law

This module covers Mining legislation; its impact on the mining industry and its stakeholders; Mine health and safety; Environmental Impacts; Exploration; Extraction; Duty of care; Safety management systems; Risk management; Legislation in developing countries; and Industrial law issues. Students are expected to appreciate and critique existing laws. Subsequent to appreciation of existing laws, students must be able to apply those laws in the acquisition and preservation of mining rights as well as the management of mining operations. The course further enables students to participate in mining policy formulation and policy advocacy. Students are also expected to develop skills in mining contract drafting and contract negotiation.

HEGP421 Dissertation

Advanced laboratory or field research program involving application of geophysics and preparation of the dissertation. Project will generally involve a field component, both supervised and unsupervised. It involves the preparation and presentation of a research proposal, completion of an assigned research project including a focused literature review and progress report, the preparation of a manuscript describing the research results, and the presentation of an oral defence of the research outcomes.