School of Mining and Geosciences
School of Mining and Geosciences
School of Mining and Geosciences
Overview
Geologists are scientists who study the earth processes, explore the earth for metals, oil, gas and water, and develop methods to extract earth’s resources.
Geologists work on the extraction of minerals, environmental protection, and the rehabilitation of land after mining engineering projects.
Bachelor of Science in Geology is a four-year program that focuses on the study of the origin and evolution on the Earth. The course involves the study of rocks, minerals, other solid substances, their compositions, their history and other processes involving them. The Bachelor of Science major in Geology combines a range of skills involving fieldwork, laboratory techniques and problem-solving skills to address key questions relating to the Earth. Being a geologist means applying techniques and knowledge from chemistry, physics, biology and math to answer important questions about Earth processes and to identify probable locations of natural resources. The program graduates are mainly employed by oil and mining companies.
Geologists work on the extraction of minerals, environmental protection, and the rehabilitation of land after mining engineering projects.
Bachelor of Science in Geology is a four-year program that focuses on the study of the origin and evolution on the Earth. The course involves the study of rocks, minerals, other solid substances, their compositions, their history and other processes involving them. The Bachelor of Science major in Geology combines a range of skills involving fieldwork, laboratory techniques and problem-solving skills to address key questions relating to the Earth. Being a geologist means applying techniques and knowledge from chemistry, physics, biology and math to answer important questions about Earth processes and to identify probable locations of natural resources. The program graduates are mainly employed by oil and mining companies.
Testimonials
Alisher Igizgali
Major: BSc Geology
Graduation Year: 2024
Graduation Year: 2024
Growing up in the West Kazakhstan Region, I witnessed how the thoughtful use of natural resources could uplift entire communities. I also noticed a shortage of local professionals with the expertise needed to make this a reality. This realization inspired me to address the skills gap in my community. After high school, I decided to pursue Geosciences.
NU SMG stood out as the ideal choice for many reasons. It offered diverse coursework, modern facilities, experienced faculty, a research-focused approach, and a strong sense of community. The Geology program covered many core subdisciplines, including petrology, mineralogy, and stratigraphy. It also included interdisciplinary fields like paleontology, geostatistics, and GIS. This variety was important to me as I did not want to narrowly specialize too early.
Also, the low student-to-faculty ratio ensured personalized attention. Fieldwork combined with classroom learning gave me hands-on experience, which is essential for geologists. Students were encouraged to join research projects outside the curriculum, and collaboration projects with leading companies in Kazakhstan and abroad including big oil and mining companies.
My time at SMG enriched me both academically and personally. Contributing to an undergraduate research project helped me sharpen my technical expertise and problem-solving abilities. I also developed a professional network in academia and industry, and honed my soft skills like teamwork and critical thinking.
I encourage anyone interested in this field to consider SMG, as it provides excellent preparation in both academic and practical aspects.
NU SMG stood out as the ideal choice for many reasons. It offered diverse coursework, modern facilities, experienced faculty, a research-focused approach, and a strong sense of community. The Geology program covered many core subdisciplines, including petrology, mineralogy, and stratigraphy. It also included interdisciplinary fields like paleontology, geostatistics, and GIS. This variety was important to me as I did not want to narrowly specialize too early.
Also, the low student-to-faculty ratio ensured personalized attention. Fieldwork combined with classroom learning gave me hands-on experience, which is essential for geologists. Students were encouraged to join research projects outside the curriculum, and collaboration projects with leading companies in Kazakhstan and abroad including big oil and mining companies.
My time at SMG enriched me both academically and personally. Contributing to an undergraduate research project helped me sharpen my technical expertise and problem-solving abilities. I also developed a professional network in academia and industry, and honed my soft skills like teamwork and critical thinking.
I encourage anyone interested in this field to consider SMG, as it provides excellent preparation in both academic and practical aspects.
Ayana Karakozhayeva
Major: BSc Geology
Graduation Year: 2023
Graduation Year: 2023
Choosing Nazarbayev University (NU) and the School of Mining and Geosciences (SMG) was a rewarding decision, thanks to their exceptional academic reputation and dedication to preparing students for the challenges of today’s job market.
The faculty at SMG are truly outstanding. Their passion for teaching and research motivated me to push myself academically. I had the chance to engage in hands-on laboratory work, advanced software training, and field experiences that deepened my understanding of geology.
Beyond academics, campus life was dynamic and full of opportunities. Being part of student organizations and attending various events helped me forge lasting friendships and develop as an individual.
NU provided me with technical and key soft skills, such as critical thinking and teamwork, which have been essential in my current role. The education I received laid a strong foundation for my career, giving me the confidence to tackle complex problems.
For future students, my advice is straightforward: take full advantage of every opportunity NU offers. This experience will transform you in ways you can’t yet imagine. My time at NU was truly life-changing, providing me with knowledge, resilience, and memories that will last a lifetime.
The faculty at SMG are truly outstanding. Their passion for teaching and research motivated me to push myself academically. I had the chance to engage in hands-on laboratory work, advanced software training, and field experiences that deepened my understanding of geology.
Beyond academics, campus life was dynamic and full of opportunities. Being part of student organizations and attending various events helped me forge lasting friendships and develop as an individual.
NU provided me with technical and key soft skills, such as critical thinking and teamwork, which have been essential in my current role. The education I received laid a strong foundation for my career, giving me the confidence to tackle complex problems.
For future students, my advice is straightforward: take full advantage of every opportunity NU offers. This experience will transform you in ways you can’t yet imagine. My time at NU was truly life-changing, providing me with knowledge, resilience, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Geology in Action: Field Trip Adventures in Kazakhstan
Geology at Nazarbayev University
Step into the vast world of geology at Nazarbayev University—where learning goes beyond the books into the great outdoors.
General information
- Campus: Astana, Kazakhstan
- Language: English
- Delivery mode: Full time, on-campus
- Duration: 4 years
- Total ECTS credit: 250
Program Aims
The educational objectives of the BSc in Geology program are to produce graduates who are able:
- To pursue productive careers as geologists engaged in continuous professional growth in industry or government, or are adequately equipped to pursue graduate level education in geology or related fields.
- To become professional Geologists and leaders in influencing natural resource management in the Republic of Kazakhstan and/or internationally.
- To engage in lifelong learning, through training, participation in professional societies, continuing education and professional development.
- To solve geologic problems or provide high quality service with state-of-the art geologic knowledge to the general public, employers, clients, and other professionals.
Key Advantages
- 95%+ job placement rate within 1–2 months of graduation1
- Field experience in Kazakhstan’s major geological regions2
- State-of-the-art labs and access to modern software (GIS, seismic analysis, modeling tools)3
- Collaboration with top mining, energy, and environmental companies4
- Close student-faculty interaction and research opportunities5
- Supportive academic community and dynamic student life6
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will be able to:
- An ability to identify, formulate, and solve broadly defined technical or scientific problems by applying knowledge of mathematics and science and/or technical topics to areas relevant to the discipline.
- An ability to formulate or design a system, process, procedure or program to meet desired needs.
- An ability to develop and conduct experiments or test hypotheses, analyze and interpret data and use scientific judgment to draw conclusions.
- An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
- An ability to understand ethical and professional responsibilities and the impact of technical and/or scientific solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
- An ability to function effectively on teams that establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, and analyze risk and uncertainty.
- Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
What Will You Learn?
- Field geology & mapping across Kazakhstan
- Mineralogy, petrology, stratigraphy, sedimentology
- Paleontology, structural geology, tectonics
- GIS & geostatistics for exploration projects
- Environmental & petroleum geochemistry
- Hands-on lab and fieldwork: Karatau & Altai Mountains
Curriculum
Electives
- Exploration Geology and Geophysics
- Carbonate Systems, Processes and Deposits
- Photography for Geosciences
- Environmental Geochemistry
Handbook
Core modules
Where do our graduates work?
- Career opportunities
- Oil, gas and petroleum sector
- The groundwater industry
- Environmental consultancies
- Civil engineering and construction companies
- Environmental planning
- Hydrogeology
- Pollution control
- Where?Companies: KMG Engineering, TengizChevrOil (TCO), KATCO, Schlumberger, National Geological Survey of Kazakhstan, SRK Consulting, Haliburton and others.
Admissions
Our Contacts
Feel free to write, call, and visit us.
Regarding consultation on admissions
On academic issues
Address:
Address: 53, Kabanbay batyr Ave., Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan.
Phone numbers
+7 (7172) 64 25 84
+7 747 094 02 30
+7 747 094 02 30
Fees and Funding:
For more detailed information about tuition fees, please contact the Bursar's Office:
For more detailed information about tuition fees, please contact the Bursar's Office:
- Phone: +7 (7172) 70 60 32, 70 91 99
- Email: bursars_office@nu.edu.kz
- Office: 1.248B Block 1
- Address: 53, Kabanbay batyr Ave., Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan
Call or email us:
Admissions Manager (MSc PhD programs):
Admissions Manager (MSc PhD programs):
+7(7172)69-4628