University of the Free State UFS Geology Department



University of the Free State UFS Geology Department

University of The Free State Geology Department, The department offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes up to PhD level in Geology, Geochemistry, Environmental Geology, and Mineral Resource Management.

Vision: The transformation of lives by focusing on quality rather than quantity in respect of geoscience education and research.

Mission: Developing our staff to produce high-quality, confident Geoscience graduates who can make a positive contribution to the South African and international labour market and can act as drivers of change. This is achieved through excellence in teaching, research, and community service and by exposing students to the world beyond the confines of the classroom.



The University of the Free State Department of Geology aims to provide innovative, dynamic, and relevant training, as well as establishing itself as a centre of expertise in relation to Geology, especially in the African context. The expertise of the permanent academic staff members in the department is augmented by a number of affiliated experts to ensure that students are provided with the best, most relevant, and up-to-date Geoscience education in South Africa and on the continent.

The department offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes up to PhD level in Geology, Geochemistry, Environmental Geology, and Mineral Resource Management. The latter only starts at NQF level 9 with our flagship MSc (Mineral Resource Management) degree, which is offered to experienced industry professionals from a variety of backgrounds relevant to the mining and mineral beneficiation industries.

After completing their studies, students have an exciting choice of careers to follow, including the following:

  • Mining Geologist
  • Exploration Geologist
  • Consultant
  • Researcher
  • Analyst

Employment can even be extended to environmental management, geohydrology, engineering and construction, forensics, and financial management.

Contact details



Head of Department: Dr F Roelofse
Tel: +27 51 401 2515
Email: [email protected]

Programme Director: Ms J Magson
Tel: +27 51 401 2373
Email: [email protected]