Conquering two elements: the new Master’s programme "Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology"

Russia has significant groundwater resources which are characterised by a large variety of conditions of formation, areal distribution and chemical composition: fresh, mineral, and thermal resources. All of them are an integral part of agriculture. They are actively used for water supply and are of particular interest for the study by hydrogeological specialists.

For detailed information on applying for the programme and studying it see.

Also, the activity of hydrogeologists is inextricably intertwined with engineering geology. It is a science that studies the characteristics of the upper layers of the earth's crust and their rational use in the process of engineering and construction work. In some cases, groundwater is a source of water supply for construction workers, while in other cases it makes their work difficult: they inundate construction pits, quarries and trenches; badly affect structural properties of soil; act as an aggressive environment to building structures. Thus, hydrogeology and engineering geology should be considered together. So, it is not surprising that specialists with comprehensive skills from both sciences are especially in demand in the labour market.

The new master's programme "Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology" is designed to train specialists who are able to successfully solve any problems: from soil investigations and geotechnical studies to monitoring environmental components. As compared to similar programmes at other universities, the St Petersburg University programme includes all the main academic and methodological areas of research and combines several academic fields: Engineering Geology; Pedology; Geodynamics; Hydrogeology; and Geophysics. Particular attention is paid to the study of topical issues related to: the need to carry out research projects and scientific support of engineering investigations; the need to secure an integrated approach for a comprehensive interpretation of the data obtained. Such interdisciplinarity makes it possible to train a specialist with a wide range of knowledge necessary to solve specific industrial and scientific challenges.

The curriculum of the programme includes general scientific and professional disciplines. Modular training and a large list of elective courses, including online courses, make it possible to create a unique educational path. Special attention is paid to students’ practice and preparation of their research projects. Students take part in expeditions to various regions of Russia and the world, thus, becoming part of teams guided by leading Russian and foreign scientists.

When designing the Power of Siberia gas pipeline, surveys were mainly carried out in the taiga. For the Altai gas pipeline prospecting was done in the Chuy Valley, the Altai Mountains and the Ukok Plateau. The site survey for the South Stream gas pipeline was conducted in the foothills of the Caucasus. The team members of the design group for the gas liquefaction plant from the Shtokman field worked on the shore of the Barents Sea.

Associate Professor Stanislav Burlutsky, Director of the Programme

In addition to field expeditions, the practice is held on construction sites of standardised urban infrastructure and in historical sites while examining foundations and reconstructing listed buildings.

Subjects and experimental materials for graduation projects are closely intertwined with current research conducted by scientists of St Petersburg University and specialists of other relevant organisations. Consequently, students from their first day at the University and up to the moment of graduation are involved in applied science, not detached from reality, and acquire skills and abilities that are highly sought after by their future employers.

After training, graduates will be able to: conduct both research and production activities; take part in designing and project management; and begin their professional career as experts or teachers in Russia and abroad.