Earth Systems and Geotechnology
Study programme title in Est.
Maa süsteemid ja geotehnoloogia
Study programme title in Engl.
Earth Systems and Geotechnology
TalTech study programme code
LARM18
MER study programme code
195137
Study programme version code
LARM18/25
Faculty / college
L - School of Science
Head of study programme/study programme manager
Leeli Amon
Language of instruction
Estonian
Study level
Master study
ECTS credits
120
Self-paid study programme
no
Nominal study period
4 semesters
Study programme group
Engineering, Manufacturing and Technology
Broad area of study
Engineering, Manufacturing and Construction
Study field
Manufacturing and processing
Curriculum group
Mining and extraction
Access conditions
Bachelor degree or education of corresponding qualification in accordance with admission requirements of TalTech.
Study programme aims and objectives
The program will train specialists in geology, oceanography,
and geotechnology (mining) with broad knowledge and practical skills that meet the requirements of the Estonian labour market and national policies on subsurface and environmental issues. By integrating natural and exact sciences, developing engineering skills, and incorporating contemporary methods and technologies in the field, the program supports the formation of a knowledgeable professional. The graduate will not only possess specific expertise in their field but will also have a comprehensive understanding of our planet as a system, the ability to contribute to green initiatives, and knowledge of research methods and life cycles of subsurface resources.
The acquired knowledge, skills, and analytical abilities provide a foundation for a successful career in mining, marine and climate sciences, as well as in environmental research-related companies and organizations. Additionally, it prepares students for further studies in doctoral programs. Completing the geotechnology major is a prerequisite for obtaining the title of a certified mining engineer.
Show more...
Learning outcomes of the study programme
A student who has completed the study program:
- is competent to work as a master's level specialist in the fields of geology,

oceanography, climate studies, and geotechnology, including regulated professional fields within mining, according to the professional standards of the industry.
- possesses a broad understanding of Earth's systems and their interactions, conducts monitoring and research both at sea and in the subsurface, performs statistical and spatial analysis of environmental data, and has in-depth knowledge and skills in a specific direction within geology, oceanography, or geotechnology.
- relies on a scientific view in their professional work, stays informed about developments in the field, and follows contemporary best practices.
- can apply specialized knowledge for the analysis and creative resolution of tasks related to subsurface and oceanography, choosing the most suitable technologies and methods for the job and assessing associated impacts.
- is capable of planning and conducting projects related to geological research and mining operations.
- understands the principles of circular economy and sustainable resource utilization and applies them in their work.
- is familiar with the legal framework of the field.
- possesses interdisciplinary knowledge and IT skills necessary for working in international teams and collaborating with specialists from related fields.
Show more...
Graduation requirements
Completion of the curriculum in the required amount, and the successful defence of the graduation paper in conformity with the requirements set by the TalTech Senate.
In order to obtain Cum Laude diploma the graduation paper must be defended for the grade "5" and the weighted average grade must be at least 4,60, where all grades from diploma supplement are taken into account.
Show more...
Degrees conferred
Master of Science in Engineering
Study programme version structure :
Module type
total ECTS credits
General studies
6.0
Core studies
18.0
Special studies
66.0
Free choice courses
6.0
Graduation thesis
24.0
Total
120.0
  • +
       MAIN SPECIALITY 3: Geotechnology
    • +
         MODULE: Entrepreneurship 6.0 ECTS credits (General studies)
      Aims
      The aim of this module is to create an understanding about the essence of entrepreneurship and the principles of business planning. To develop skills for business model design,
      methods for analysis and calculations necessary for business planning.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      By the end of the module the student:
      - can understand the nature of entrepreneurship, innovation and the business planning process;


      - has skills to evaluate business opportunities and analyse the impact of business environment on the activities of the enterprise;
      - has gained practical experience of creating a business model, writing a business plan, planning finances and participating in interdisciplinary team work.
      Show more...
      Compulsory courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Entrepreneurship and Business Planning
      TMJ3300
      6.0
      4.0
      1.0
      0.0
      3.0
      E
      SK
      Total: 6.0 ECTS credits
    • +
         MODULE: Sustainable Earth 18.0 ECTS credits (Core studies)
      Aims
      The objective of the module is to address various aspects of environmental issues facing planet Earth: environmental problems,
      Estonian environmental legislation, including the environmental impact assessment process in Estonia and environmental permit requirements, and to provide practical solutions for environmental monitoring, environmental data collection, and the analysis and interpretation of environmental and spatial data.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      A student who has completed the module:
      - applies environmental legislation in their specific field;


      - assesses the environmental impact of a company, by different activities etc. and proposes solutions to prevent or reduce environmental impact;
      - understands the specifics and applications of remote sensing methods; uses satellite images for environmental change analysis.
      Show more...
      Compulsory courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Remote Sensing of Earth Systems
      NSO7001
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      E
      K
      Environmental Legislation and Management
      NSO7003
      6.0
      4.0
      2.5
      0.0
      1.5
      E
      S
      Total: 12.0 ECTS credits
      Elective courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Introduction to the Circular Economy
      EKX0020
      3.0
      2.0
      1.9
      0.0
      0.1
      E
      S
      Environmental Chemistry
      KAK0054
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.5
      0.5
      E
      S
      Circular Economy for Materials Processing
      NGG0401
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      A
      SK
      Fundamentals of the Earth System Modelling
      NSO8001
      3.0
      2.0
      1.5
      0.0
      0.5
      E
      S
      Total: at least 6.0 ECTS credits
    • +
         MODULE: Geotechnology 66.0 ECTS credits (Special studies)
      Aims
      The aim of this module is to:
      - provide specialized knowledge about surface and underground mining methods and specific processes of a mine,

      developing engineering geological solutions, and preparing geotechnological projects;
      - introduce and support knowledge of the applicable technologies, services, and practical skills applied in various stages of mineral extraction and beneficiation, including mining machinery and other equipment selection, facility and work area planning, and mining operations management;
      - create opportunities for students to gain practical work experience in a mining company and engage in specialized research work, give the challenges in the raw materials sector.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      A student who has completed the module:
      - possesses knowledge of key engineering geological works and research methods, soil types, and their characteristics;


      - can design surface and underground mines using specialized design software, perform relevant engineering calculations, and critically evaluate mining project outcomes;
      - is capable of considering geological, geomechanical, environmental, and mining-related constraints and legal frameworks in geotechnological design;
      - understands the main stages of mineral extraction and beneficiation cycles, along with commonly used technological, process, and management schemes, and can apply this knowledge in practice;
      - can plan and optimize mining support services and related technologies, as well as plan and manage mining and beneficiation processes;
      - adheres to engineering ethics in their work and applies relevant occupational safety, occupational health, and environmental protection requirements when planning and organizing professional work;
      - has practical work experience in a mining industry;
      - has acquired the necessary theoretical and methodological foundations for professional research work.
      Show more...
      Compulsory courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Underground Mining and Open Pit Mining
      LGM0201
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      S
      Mining Project
      LGM0202
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      H
      S
      Internship (Internship)
      LGM0501
      6.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      A
      SK
      Master Project Seminar
      LGM0503
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      0.0
      1.0
      H
      S2
      Fundamentals of Geomechanics and Engineering Geology
      NGG0311
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Mineral processing
      NGG0314
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      H
      SK
      Mine Management and Mineral Economics
      NGG0330
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      E
      SK
      Research Project
      NSO8002
      3.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      0.0
      A
      S
      Total: 42.0 ECTS credits
      Elective courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Bedrock Geology of Estonia
      LGM0102
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      0.0
      H
      K1
      Estonian Quaternary Geology
      LGM0103
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      0.0
      E
      SK
      Rock Excavation and Blasting
      LGM0203
      6.0
      4.0
      2.5
      0.5
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Fundamentals of Rock Engineering
      LGM0204
      3.0
      2.0
      1.5
      0.0
      0.5
      A
      K
      Mining in a Global Environment
      LGM0205
      3.0
      2.0
      0.5
      0.0
      1.5
      E
      SK
      Geophysics
      LGM0402
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      0.5
      0.5
      H
      SK
      Basics of Mechatronics
      MHK0140
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      E
      K
      Fundamentals of Explosives Engineering
      NGG0317
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Mineral resource modelling and estimation
      NGG0319
      6.0
      4.0
      1.0
      3.0
      0.0
      H
      SK
      Mine surveying
      NGG0323
      6.0
      4.0
      1.0
      2.0
      1.0
      H
      SK
      Applied Hydrogeology
      NGG0326
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Regional geology and geological field techniques (field course)
      NGG0327
      6.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      A
      S
      Experimental Oceanography
      NSO7004
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      A
      K
      Total: at least 24.0 ECTS credits
    • +
         MODULE: Free Choice Studies 6.0 ECTS credits (Free choice courses)
      Aims
      The aim of free choice studies is to acquire knowledge in elective
      subjects not belonging to the curriculum to be able to broaden one's views and to deepen one’s knowledge in relation to the graduation work chosen and/or personal interests.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      After completing this module, the student:
      - has become proficient and skilful in elective subjects not belonging to the curriculum;


      - has obtained deeper knowledge in relation to the graduation work and/or personal interests.
      Show more...
    • +
         MODULE: Master Thesis 24.0 ECTS credits (Graduation thesis)
      Aims
      The aim of Master Thesis is to:
      - obtain knowledge and skills to perform research in geology, marine and climate sciences, geotechnology and mining engineering;


      - acquire skills for describing the work done and the results obtained;
      - refine skills for defending the thesis.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      After defending the Master Thesis, the student:
      - has acquired the knowledge and skills to conduct theoretical or practical research according to the chosen topic in geology,

      marine and climate sciences, geotechnology, or mining, including the skills to structure the work and describe objectives, analyzed problems, methods used, studies conducted, and results obtained;
      - is capable of participating in scientific debate.
      Show more...
    • +
         STANDARD STUDY PLAN: Autumn daytime study
      • +
           1st Semester
      • +
           2nd Semester
      • +
           3rd Semester
  • +
       MAIN SPECIALITY 4: Earth, Marine and Climate Science
    • +
         MODULE: Entrepreneurship 6.0 ECTS credits (General studies)
      Aims
      The aim of this module is to create an understanding about the essence of entrepreneurship and the principles of business planning. To develop skills for business model design,
      methods for analysis and calculations necessary for business planning.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      By the end of the module the student:
      - can understand the nature of entrepreneurship, innovation and the business planning process;


      - has skills to evaluate business opportunities and analyse the impact of business environment on the activities of the enterprise;
      - has gained practical experience of creating a business model, writing a business plan, planning finances and participating in interdisciplinary team work.
      Show more...
      Compulsory courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Entrepreneurship and Business Planning
      TMJ3300
      6.0
      4.0
      1.0
      0.0
      3.0
      E
      SK
      Total: 6.0 ECTS credits
    • +
         MODULE: Sustainable Earth 18.0 ECTS credits (Core studies)
      Aims
      The objective of the module is to address various aspects of environmental issues facing planet Earth: environmental problems,
      Estonian environmental legislation, including the environmental impact assessment process in Estonia and environmental permit requirements, and to provide practical solutions for environmental monitoring, environmental data collection, and the analysis and interpretation of environmental and spatial data.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      A student who has completed the module:
      - applies environmental legislation in their specific field;


      - assesses the environmental impact of a company, by different activities etc. and proposes solutions to prevent or reduce environmental impact;
      - understands the specifics and applications of remote sensing methods; uses satellite images for environmental change analysis.
      Show more...
      Compulsory courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Remote Sensing of Earth Systems
      NSO7001
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      E
      K
      Environmental Legislation and Management
      NSO7003
      6.0
      4.0
      2.5
      0.0
      1.5
      E
      S
      Total: 12.0 ECTS credits
      Elective courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Introduction to the Circular Economy
      EKX0020
      3.0
      2.0
      1.9
      0.0
      0.1
      E
      S
      Environmental Chemistry
      KAK0054
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.5
      0.5
      E
      S
      Circular Economy for Materials Processing
      NGG0401
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      A
      SK
      Fundamentals of the Earth System Modelling
      NSO8001
      3.0
      2.0
      1.5
      0.0
      0.5
      E
      S
      Total: at least 6.0 ECTS credits
    • +
         MODULE: Earth, Marine and Climate Sciences 66.0 ECTS credits (Special studies)
      Aims
      The aim of this module is to:
      - acquire knowledge about the interrelationships among Earth's spheres (atmosphere,

      cryosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere), the complex nature of processes occurring on Earth, and the interdisciplinary nature of geophysical, chemical, and biological research methods;
      - develop skills for independent professional research and teamwork, as well as for documenting and presenting results;
      - gain practical expertise in the field;
      - complete professional internships.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      After completing this module, the student:
      - possesses a comprehensive overview of marine,

      atmospheric, and terrestrial processes and their interrelationships in the context of changing climate conditions;
      - understands the principles of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting geophysical and geochemical data (i.e., environmental data) and comprehends the content of studies;
      - applies selected geophysical/geochemical methods and interprets data based on sample material;
      - is knowledgeable about key physical processes in water bodies, understands the fundamental principles of oceanography and aquatic ecology, and has an understanding of research methods and tools;
      - can choose appropriate natural science methods for solving research tasks or problems;
      - has practical work experience in a field-related company or institution;
      - is familiar with the general methodology of scientific research and applied research, and understands the basic principles of research ethics.
      Show more...
      Compulsory courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Geochemistry
      LGM0401
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      0.5
      0.5
      E
      SK
      Geophysics
      LGM0402
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      0.5
      0.5
      H
      SK
      Internship (Internship)
      LGM0501
      6.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      A
      SK
      Master Project Seminar
      LGM0503
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      0.0
      1.0
      H
      S2
      Experimental Oceanography
      NSO7004
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      A
      K
      Research Project
      NSO8002
      3.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      0.0
      A
      S
      Total: 24.0 ECTS credits
      Elective courses:
      Course title
      Course code
      ECTS credits
      Hours per week
      Lectures
      Practices
      Exercises
      E/P-F.Ass./ Gr.Ass.
      Teaching semester
      Structural Geology
      LGM0101
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Bedrock Geology of Estonia
      LGM0102
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      0.0
      H
      K1
      Estonian Quaternary Geology
      LGM0103
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      0.0
      E
      SK
      History of Earth and Life
      LGM0104
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      0.0
      H
      SK
      Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
      LGM0105
      3.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      0.0
      H
      SK
      Underground Mining and Open Pit Mining
      LGM0201
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      S
      Fundamentals of Geomechanics and Engineering Geology
      NGG0311
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Mineral resource modelling and estimation
      NGG0319
      6.0
      4.0
      1.0
      3.0
      0.0
      H
      SK
      Applied Hydrogeology
      NGG0326
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      1.0
      1.0
      E
      SK
      Regional geology and geological field techniques (field course)
      NGG0327
      6.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      0.0
      A
      S
      Global Climate
      NSO7002
      6.0
      4.0
      3.0
      0.0
      1.0
      E
      K
      Physical Oceanography and Meteorology
      NSO7005
      6.0
      4.0
      3.0
      0.0
      1.0
      E
      S
      Aquatic Ecology
      NSO7006
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      2.0
      0.0
      E
      S
      Geophysical Data Analysis
      NSO7007
      6.0
      4.0
      1.0
      2.0
      1.0
      E
      K
      Fundamentals of weather forecasting (synoptic and aviation meteorology)
      NSO7090
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      2.0
      0.0
      E
      S
      Renewable Energy Resources
      NSO8003
      6.0
      4.0
      2.0
      0.0
      2.0
      E
      SK
      Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
      NSO8071
      6.0
      4.0
      3.0
      0.0
      1.0
      E
      S
      Total: at least 42.0 ECTS credits
    • +
         MODULE: Free Choice Studies 6.0 ECTS credits (Free choice courses)
      Aims
      The aim of free choice studies is to acquire knowledge in elective
      subjects not belonging to the curriculum to be able to broaden one's views and to deepen one’s knowledge in relation to the graduation work chosen and/or personal interests.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      After completing this module, the student:
      - has become proficient and skilful in elective subjects not belonging to the curriculum;


      - has obtained deeper knowledge in relation to the graduation work and/or personal interests.
      Show more...
    • +
         MODULE: Master Thesis 24.0 ECTS credits (Graduation thesis)
      Aims
      The aim of Master Thesis is to:
      - obtain knowledge and skills to perform research in geology, marine and climate sciences, geotechnology and mining engineering;


      - acquire skills for describing the work done and the results obtained;
      - refine skills for defending the thesis.
      Show more...
      Learning outcomes
      After defending the Master Thesis, the student:
      - has acquired the knowledge and skills to conduct theoretical or practical research according to the chosen topic in geology,

      marine and climate sciences, geotechnology, or mining, including the skills to structure the work and describe objectives, analyzed problems, methods used, studies conducted, and results obtained;
      - is capable of participating in scientific debate.
      Show more...
    • +
         STANDARD STUDY PLAN: Autumn daytime study
      • +
           1st Semester
      • +
           2nd Semester
      • +
           3rd Semester