Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology

What does this program cover?

The aim of the master's program is to convey advanced knowledge of applied geology. Elective modules allow for the creation of an individual study profile in the areas of engineering geology and hydrogeology.

Engineering geology, as a field of geotechnical engineering, provides the link between the disciplines of geosciences based on natural science, and engineering sciences. Engineering geologists deal with the investigation of natural underground phenomena as well as the associated development of derived models that respond to technical questions concerning such phenomena. In interdisciplinary cooperation with geotechnicians, civil engineers, geodesists, mining engineers, and mechnical engineers, they plan and execute measures taken in the areas of transport route construction, specialized civil engineering, tunnel and cavern construction, mining, the exploitation of raw materials and natural stone, site remediation, and the mitigation of natural hazards.

Hydrogeologists deal with the Earth's water cycle, that is, with the distribution of water in the atmosphere as well as in and on the Earth, across space and time. As such, the biological, chemical, and physical properties of water are of great significance. Hydrogeology therefore offers the basis for answering important questions about the future management of water resources. In this respect, the specific challenges are providing seven billion people with clean drinking water, the sustainable use of the natural resource “groundwater” and the spread of harmful substances in groundwater, as well as the remediation of contaminated land and groundwater.