Course content

The course addresses selected topics in structural geology from the micro to macro scale, and provides insight into deformation mechanisms, structural architecture and fault rocks. The main focus is on faults and shear zones, structures commonly encountered in applied projects in society and industry.

Learning outcome

The course will enable the students to evaluate the significance of geological structures at several scales, in particular shear zones and faults, and to analyze kinematic indicators, fault rocks and damage zones in regional as well as applied contexts. They will be able to recognize, record and classify structures formed by ductile and brittle deformation mechanisms in crystalline and sedimentary rocks. They shall be able to use structures at different scales and accessible geochronological data to build a tectonic history. The students will be able to measure and interpret structures in the field and in the microscope, as well as identifying faults in seismic reflection data. They will be able to construct profiles from geological maps and assess the uncertainties involved in such interpretations. The course emphasizes a holistic understanding, where structural geological knowledge is integrated with knowledge in other geological disciplines. The student should have acquired knowledge that can be employed in the planning of infrastructure or the exploration or production of geological resources.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, compulsory exercises, fieldwork.

Compulsory 5-days field course in Fosen, Trøndelag, Norway.

Information, lectures and activities will be posted in Canvas throughout the semester.

Compulsory assignments

• Field report
• Exercises

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Some previous field work.

Required previous knowledge

TGB4150 Structural Geology, Basic Course.

Course materials

Fossen: Structural Geology, 1st or 2nd Edition (selected parts). Selected parts of other textbooks, articles and handouts.