Course content

The main focus of the course will be introduction to the execution of a resource geological program and includes the use of different methods and strategies for exploration for and understanding of mineral deposits, resource potential evaluations and resource estimations. This includes geological conditions required for the formation of mineral deposits, introduction to different tools / methods for exploration and their application in a mineral exploration campaign, requirements for evaluation of economical and technological potential of identified deposits / mineralisations.

Learning outcome

After fulfilling the course, students should be able to familiarise with and understand the strategy behind a mineral exploration project at different levels from prospecting through different stages of the exploration project. This includes the development of a geological block model for resource estimation and resource classification. The student will also be able to propose a strategy for mineral exploration at different levels, including selection of appropriate tools and methods.

Learning methods and activities

Teaching will be as lectures and assignments. Field excursions may be arranged. These may be arranged during the weekend. The course is evaluated by a reference group.

Further on evaluation

The final grade is based on a combination of oral exam (60%) and scientific report (40%). In order to be eligible to receive a grade in the course, both assessments must receive a passing score. Students who have failed the course but passed the report will only re-take the final exam. To pass the course a score of at least 70 percent is required.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

It is recommended that the prospective students have basic knowledge in the geology and geological resources of Norway, such as TGB4112 Geology and Geological Resources of Norway (or similar). It is also an advantage if the prospective students have basic knowledge in mineral production, such as TGB4227 Mineral Production, Basic Course, or both TGB4242 Mining Methods, Basic Course and TGB4301 Mineral Processing, Basic Course. It is highly recommended that the prospective students have basic knowledge in geostatistics, such as the course TGB4216 Mineral Resource Management, Basic Course.

Required previous knowledge

The prospective students should have basic knowledge in geology and mineralogy from course such as TGB4100 Geology, Introduction and TGB4125 Mineralogy / TGB4126 Mineralogy, Basic Course (or equivalent). The prospective students should also have basic knowledge in mineral deposit geology such as TGB4115 Mineral Deposit Geology (or equivalent).

Course materials

Text books, lecture presentations, scientific papers.