Earth Sciences
Earth Sciences
Course sheet
A.Y. 2025/2026
Master programme
LM-74 R - Scienze e tecnologie geologiche
Today's times call for an enhancement of the strategic role of geosciences, not only for studying and mitigating geological risks, but also for supporting the energy transition and decarbonisation. This is particularly true for Italy, which is exposed to numerous geological hazards. In this scenario, the Master's degree programme in Earth Sciences aims to produce professionals who will be able to contribute to the exploration, modelling, extraction, development, storage and monitoring of geo-energy resources, with a focus on their sustainable use and the mitigation of social and environmental impacts.
The programme is designed to provide graduates with a robust interdisciplinary education, allowing them to competently enter the job market, whether as professionals or researchers, and even to aspire to management roles. Teaching combines theory and practice, as the coursework includes field activities, laboratories and internships, plus the opportunity to enjoy study periods at public and private research institutions, in Italy or abroad.
More specifically, the programme provides students with specific geological knowledge and skills related to, inter alia, stratigraphy, sedimentology, structural geology, geomorphology, applied geology, palaeontology, mineralogy, petrography, geochemistry, depositology and geophysics, allowing for an understanding of geological processes, including natural phenomena shaping the landscape, and the dynamics of the Earth's crust. Students will gain theoretical and experimental knowledge, as well as technical and applied expertise, allowing them to process and interpret complex data from the field and lab. At the same time, they will develop specific skills enabling them to work in interdisciplinary contexts which require an understanding of topics related to geotechnics, hydrology and river hydraulics.
The degree programme offers two learning tracks (curricula). During the first year, students attend core courses, which provide them with specific knowledge and skills in accordance with the programme learning objectives. During the first year and the first semester of the second year, students broaden their knowledge by attending supplementary courses, which are intended to complement their training in other fields adjacent to Earth sciences, thus providing for a multi- and interdisciplinary learning experience. Both the first and the second year include elective activities. During the second year, students strengthen their knowledge and skills through an internship and their thesis work. The coursework includes field and lab activities focusing on experiments and measurements, as well as on the processing and interpretation of data and the related analogue and digital technologies. These contents are presented differently in the two curricula, as one is more application-oriented, while the other is rather focused on fostering an understanding of processes. All curricula include a compulsory internship to be completed at research institutes, universities, laboratories, companies, professional firms or public administrations, in Italy or abroad, also in the framework of specific national or international agreements.
The programme is designed to provide graduates with a robust interdisciplinary education, allowing them to competently enter the job market, whether as professionals or researchers, and even to aspire to management roles. Teaching combines theory and practice, as the coursework includes field activities, laboratories and internships, plus the opportunity to enjoy study periods at public and private research institutions, in Italy or abroad.
More specifically, the programme provides students with specific geological knowledge and skills related to, inter alia, stratigraphy, sedimentology, structural geology, geomorphology, applied geology, palaeontology, mineralogy, petrography, geochemistry, depositology and geophysics, allowing for an understanding of geological processes, including natural phenomena shaping the landscape, and the dynamics of the Earth's crust. Students will gain theoretical and experimental knowledge, as well as technical and applied expertise, allowing them to process and interpret complex data from the field and lab. At the same time, they will develop specific skills enabling them to work in interdisciplinary contexts which require an understanding of topics related to geotechnics, hydrology and river hydraulics.
The degree programme offers two learning tracks (curricula). During the first year, students attend core courses, which provide them with specific knowledge and skills in accordance with the programme learning objectives. During the first year and the first semester of the second year, students broaden their knowledge by attending supplementary courses, which are intended to complement their training in other fields adjacent to Earth sciences, thus providing for a multi- and interdisciplinary learning experience. Both the first and the second year include elective activities. During the second year, students strengthen their knowledge and skills through an internship and their thesis work. The coursework includes field and lab activities focusing on experiments and measurements, as well as on the processing and interpretation of data and the related analogue and digital technologies. These contents are presented differently in the two curricula, as one is more application-oriented, while the other is rather focused on fostering an understanding of processes. All curricula include a compulsory internship to be completed at research institutes, universities, laboratories, companies, professional firms or public administrations, in Italy or abroad, also in the framework of specific national or international agreements.
Earth science professional specialised in the collection of geological data and the assessment and management of geological and environmental risks
Job functions:
- analysis, management, summarising and processing of geological and geognostic data;
- conceptualisation of geological-technical models for the characterisation of soil and subsoil;
- planning and technical coordination of geological interventions;
- planning and design of geognostic investigations on the field and in the lab for the characterisation of geological materials;
- design of geological and environmental monitoring systems for determining hazard and risk scenarios, particularly as regards the interactions of atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere;
- planning of geological interventions for managing and protecting the landscape, its resources and the urban fabric in geological and hydro-geological hazard and risk scenarios, also for civil protection purposes;
- management and protection of underground water resources;
- collection and interpretation of data regarding environmental matrices, using modern technologies and risk analysis;
- planning of environmental rehabilitation interventions.
Graduates in Earth Sciences can register with the Italian National Council of Geologists (Section A), after passing the corresponding State Exam.
Professional skills:
A general knowledge of Earth sciences topics; ability to collect and organise direct and indirect geological data; ability to identify problematic issues based on their knowledge of geological processes; ability to define geological problems, including the more complex ones; ability to interact with other professionals for different geological applications; ability to plan specific investigations for land protection and land management purposes; ability to collect data from field and lab tests for the characterisation of geological materials (soils, rocks, water); ability to draft and edit technical-geological maps, geomorphological maps, and geothematic maps (both numerical and traditional) to summarise the physical and mechanical properties of soils, lands, and rock masses; familiarity with analysis and numerical modelling methods to determine interactions between engineering structures and natural systems; knowledge of geological, photogrammetric and geomorphological survey techniques, as well as of methods based on Quaternary deposits, to produce technical maps; knowledge of digital cartography methods based on GIS and remote sensing data, and on the use of geospatial statistics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, with a focus on landslide susceptibility, aquifer vulnerability, and the geomorphological evolution of the territory; knowledge of numerical modelling methods to reconstruct evolutionary scenarios involving the hydrosphere and lithosphere, and their interactions with anthropic activities and the biosphere; knowledge of geological methods for the characterisation and monitoring of polluted sites, as well as hydro-geological methods for their restoration; knowledge of methods and tools to assess soil, ground and slope stability.
Career opportunities:
These professionals work for local and national public administrations dealing with land management (also in top-management roles), for research centres of different kinds (also in coordination roles), as well as for private companies involved in the management of the landscape and its resources. More specifically, potential employers include: environmental and civil protection agencies, local bodies and water resources management companies; companies providing environmental monitoring and environmental rehabilitation services; civil engineering firms, environmental restoration and environmental safety companies; insurance firms and companies specialising in environmental damage assessments.
Graduates of the Master's degree in Earth Sciences can work as employees of public and private organisations, but also as freelancers. In any case, they may always decide to further expand their professional knowledge and skills by pursuing a doctorate.
Earth science professional specialised in the collection of geological data for the study and modelling of geological processes
Job function:
- planning and technical coordination of geological interventions;
- open air, underground and offshore extraction activities;
- analysis, management, summarising and processing of geological and geomineral data;
- planning of activities to find, map, assess and manage georesources (including natural and artificial construction materials, industrial minerals, stone materials, ornamental stones, metallic minerals);
- planning of geological, palaeontological and geomorphological activities for the protection, characterisation, conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage products;
- modelling of minerogenetic, petrogenetic and geodynamic processes;
- conceptualisation of geological models for the characterisation of soil, water resources and minerals, with a focus on liquid and gas deposits, and the investigation of processes governing the formation, distribution and accumulation of geomaterials and georesources;
- research into the effects of present and past climate changes on the evolution of the Earth systems and georesources;
- collection and integration of subsoil data and/or remote sensing data for thematic cartography;
- lab work for the characterisation and diagnostics of geomaterials and their synthetic analogues, including the characterisation of natural raw materials in production processes.
Graduates in Earth Sciences can register with the Italian National Council of Geologists (Section A), after passing the corresponding State Exam.
Professional skills:
A general knowledge of Earth sciences topics; ability to collect and organise direct and indirect geological data; ability to identify problematic issues based on their knowledge of geological processes; ability to define geological problems, including the more complex ones; ability to interact with other professionals for different geological applications; knowledge of data representation methods and tools used in geothematic cartography; proficiency with digital technologies, remote sensing devices and GIS systems to perform geospatial analysis, including by using machine learning and artificial intelligence applications, as well as to produce digital maps to support land planning and management, as well as for the characterisation and preservation of georesources and the geological, mineral, palaeontological, geomorphological, geoarchaeological and geopedological heritage (such as geoparks and protected areas); knowledge of the basic concepts and tools of geological diagnostics for the exploration, assessment, management and optimisation of natural resources (including geothermal low and high enthalpy resources), also in light of the energy transition; familiarity with analytical methods for the characterisation and certification of geomaterials and their synthetic analogues (including dangerous ones).
Career opportunities:
Graduates will be able to work for private companies treating natural and synthetic geomaterials for various applications in land management (possibly even as head of laboratories of mineralogy, petrography, sedimentology, palaeontology, geochemistry or geotechnics). Alternatively, they could work for local and national public bodies dealing with the characterisation of natural materials and their synthetic analogues for civil applications. The energy sector also provides for interesting career prospects, both in the field of exploration and production. Medium and large enterprises (oil companies, geophysical and geological service providers, mining research companies) usually hire these professionals as specialised technicians (with expertise in different areas of geology) or in management roles. Another possibility is to work with private companies engaged in scientific communication and collaborating with news publishers. Furthermore, graduates who have earned enough credits in certain subject areas may take admission tests for training courses for secondary school teaching, pursuant to the laws in force.
Graduates of the Master's degree in Earth Sciences can work as employees of public and private organisations, but also as freelancers. In any case, they may always decide to further expand their professional knowledge and skills by pursuing a doctorate.
Job functions:
- analysis, management, summarising and processing of geological and geognostic data;
- conceptualisation of geological-technical models for the characterisation of soil and subsoil;
- planning and technical coordination of geological interventions;
- planning and design of geognostic investigations on the field and in the lab for the characterisation of geological materials;
- design of geological and environmental monitoring systems for determining hazard and risk scenarios, particularly as regards the interactions of atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere;
- planning of geological interventions for managing and protecting the landscape, its resources and the urban fabric in geological and hydro-geological hazard and risk scenarios, also for civil protection purposes;
- management and protection of underground water resources;
- collection and interpretation of data regarding environmental matrices, using modern technologies and risk analysis;
- planning of environmental rehabilitation interventions.
Graduates in Earth Sciences can register with the Italian National Council of Geologists (Section A), after passing the corresponding State Exam.
Professional skills:
A general knowledge of Earth sciences topics; ability to collect and organise direct and indirect geological data; ability to identify problematic issues based on their knowledge of geological processes; ability to define geological problems, including the more complex ones; ability to interact with other professionals for different geological applications; ability to plan specific investigations for land protection and land management purposes; ability to collect data from field and lab tests for the characterisation of geological materials (soils, rocks, water); ability to draft and edit technical-geological maps, geomorphological maps, and geothematic maps (both numerical and traditional) to summarise the physical and mechanical properties of soils, lands, and rock masses; familiarity with analysis and numerical modelling methods to determine interactions between engineering structures and natural systems; knowledge of geological, photogrammetric and geomorphological survey techniques, as well as of methods based on Quaternary deposits, to produce technical maps; knowledge of digital cartography methods based on GIS and remote sensing data, and on the use of geospatial statistics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, with a focus on landslide susceptibility, aquifer vulnerability, and the geomorphological evolution of the territory; knowledge of numerical modelling methods to reconstruct evolutionary scenarios involving the hydrosphere and lithosphere, and their interactions with anthropic activities and the biosphere; knowledge of geological methods for the characterisation and monitoring of polluted sites, as well as hydro-geological methods for their restoration; knowledge of methods and tools to assess soil, ground and slope stability.
Career opportunities:
These professionals work for local and national public administrations dealing with land management (also in top-management roles), for research centres of different kinds (also in coordination roles), as well as for private companies involved in the management of the landscape and its resources. More specifically, potential employers include: environmental and civil protection agencies, local bodies and water resources management companies; companies providing environmental monitoring and environmental rehabilitation services; civil engineering firms, environmental restoration and environmental safety companies; insurance firms and companies specialising in environmental damage assessments.
Graduates of the Master's degree in Earth Sciences can work as employees of public and private organisations, but also as freelancers. In any case, they may always decide to further expand their professional knowledge and skills by pursuing a doctorate.
Earth science professional specialised in the collection of geological data for the study and modelling of geological processes
Job function:
- planning and technical coordination of geological interventions;
- open air, underground and offshore extraction activities;
- analysis, management, summarising and processing of geological and geomineral data;
- planning of activities to find, map, assess and manage georesources (including natural and artificial construction materials, industrial minerals, stone materials, ornamental stones, metallic minerals);
- planning of geological, palaeontological and geomorphological activities for the protection, characterisation, conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage products;
- modelling of minerogenetic, petrogenetic and geodynamic processes;
- conceptualisation of geological models for the characterisation of soil, water resources and minerals, with a focus on liquid and gas deposits, and the investigation of processes governing the formation, distribution and accumulation of geomaterials and georesources;
- research into the effects of present and past climate changes on the evolution of the Earth systems and georesources;
- collection and integration of subsoil data and/or remote sensing data for thematic cartography;
- lab work for the characterisation and diagnostics of geomaterials and their synthetic analogues, including the characterisation of natural raw materials in production processes.
Graduates in Earth Sciences can register with the Italian National Council of Geologists (Section A), after passing the corresponding State Exam.
Professional skills:
A general knowledge of Earth sciences topics; ability to collect and organise direct and indirect geological data; ability to identify problematic issues based on their knowledge of geological processes; ability to define geological problems, including the more complex ones; ability to interact with other professionals for different geological applications; knowledge of data representation methods and tools used in geothematic cartography; proficiency with digital technologies, remote sensing devices and GIS systems to perform geospatial analysis, including by using machine learning and artificial intelligence applications, as well as to produce digital maps to support land planning and management, as well as for the characterisation and preservation of georesources and the geological, mineral, palaeontological, geomorphological, geoarchaeological and geopedological heritage (such as geoparks and protected areas); knowledge of the basic concepts and tools of geological diagnostics for the exploration, assessment, management and optimisation of natural resources (including geothermal low and high enthalpy resources), also in light of the energy transition; familiarity with analytical methods for the characterisation and certification of geomaterials and their synthetic analogues (including dangerous ones).
Career opportunities:
Graduates will be able to work for private companies treating natural and synthetic geomaterials for various applications in land management (possibly even as head of laboratories of mineralogy, petrography, sedimentology, palaeontology, geochemistry or geotechnics). Alternatively, they could work for local and national public bodies dealing with the characterisation of natural materials and their synthetic analogues for civil applications. The energy sector also provides for interesting career prospects, both in the field of exploration and production. Medium and large enterprises (oil companies, geophysical and geological service providers, mining research companies) usually hire these professionals as specialised technicians (with expertise in different areas of geology) or in management roles. Another possibility is to work with private companies engaged in scientific communication and collaborating with news publishers. Furthermore, graduates who have earned enough credits in certain subject areas may take admission tests for training courses for secondary school teaching, pursuant to the laws in force.
Graduates of the Master's degree in Earth Sciences can work as employees of public and private organisations, but also as freelancers. In any case, they may always decide to further expand their professional knowledge and skills by pursuing a doctorate.
Thanks to the Erasmus+ programme, students can spend a study or research period at a foreign university or research centre, to take classes and exams, carry out part of the research work for their final thesis, or complete the internship. Attending courses and taking exams at a foreign university is not only a life-shaping experience and an opportunity to learn the local language, but also a chance for students to experience a different teaching system and develop a more flexible approach to their studies, which they could later apply in their future career. By carrying out research activities or an internship abroad, students often gain access to resources that otherwise would not be available to them (for example, large equipment). They also have a chance to conduct applied research in specific fields, and to interact with wider research groups. Thanks to inter-institutional agreements, the Master's degree programme currently offers mobility opportunities for study (and in some cases research) at partner universities in France, Germany, Greece, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey. In any case, the University is open to sign new agreements for study, research or internship purposes with any other university or research centre with which professors teaching in the Department already have an ongoing scientific collaboration, or wish to establish one. For any of these opportunities, and in general to carry out research abroad, students have to identify a Department professor willing to act as their supervisor or scientific coordinator of the project. Erasmus+ scholarships for study allow students to take exams and do research at foreign universities, while Erasmus+ Placement scholarships are only for internship and research activities. There are separate application processes for the two types of scholarships, with different paperwork requirements. All activities to be carried out abroad, whether study or research, must be approved by the relevant tutors (professors) at the home and host universities and specified in the learning agreement. This document, together with the transcript of records for any exam taken abroad and/or research reports, is essential for ensuring the recognition of such activities by the home university. Besides the Erasmus+ programme, the University offers Master's students the opportunity to apply for a scholarship to write their thesis abroad. Applications open twice a year and upcoming graduates can participate in the selection by submitting a detailed thesis project together with their supervisor.
Attendance is not compulsory, but highly recommended especially for all laboratories, field activities and many lectures of specialist courses with contents that are not easily available through textbooks.
Enrolment
Qualifications and knowledge required for admission
Bachelor's graduates in Geological Sciences (L-34), as well as in the corresponding degree class pursuant to Ministerial Decree 509/99, are eligible to enrol in the Master's degree programme in Earth Sciences.
Bachelor's graduates of other degree programmes and applicants holding an equivalent foreign degree may also enrol in the programme, provided that they have completed adequate academic training in the core branches of Earth Sciences, i.e. they have earned at least 44 CFU/ECTS credits in the following scientific-disciplinary sectors: GEO/01, GEO/02, GEO/03, GEO/04, GEO/05, GEO/06, GEO/07, GEO/08, GEO/09, GEO/10, GEO/11, GEO/12.
Proficiency in English at a B2 level or higher under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required for admission.
The B2-level requirement will be ascertained by the University Language Centre (SLAM) during the admission process, as follows:
- language certificate at or above B2, obtained no more than three years earlier. For the list of language certificates recognised by the University, see https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322. Applicants must upload their certificate when submitting their application for admission;
- English level achieved during a University of Milan degree programme and certified by the University Language Centre (SLAM), including levels based on language certificates submitted by applicants during their Bachelor's degree at the University of Milan. Only levels certified in the last four years are considered valid. In this case the process is automatic, the applicant does not have to attach any certificates to the application;
- entry test administered by the University Language Centre (SLAM) according to the calendar published on the website: https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267. Those who fail to submit a valid certificate or do not meet the required proficiency level will be instructed, during the admission procedure, to take the entry test.
Applicants who do not take or pass the entry test will be required to obtain a language proficiency certificate recognised by the University (see https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322) and deliver it to the SLAM via the InformaStudenti service by the deadline fixed for the Master's programme (https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267/).
Applicants who do not meet the requirement by said deadline will not be admitted to the Master's degree programme and may not sit any further tests.
Admission assessment:
Before the start of teaching activities, applicants will be invited to an interview with the Admission Board, to assess their preparedness for the programme in terms of background knowledge and identify any learning gaps. The Admission Board is made up of professors appointed by the Academic Board. The interview will focus on the applicant's knowledge and skills in the fields of Earth science, with particular regard to the fundamentals of geology, geomorphology, petrology and geophysics.
Applicants who fail the interview will not be able to enrol in the programme.
Upcoming Bachelor's graduates can also apply for admission and take the interview, but they will have to obtain their Bachelor's degree by 31 December 2025 in order to finalise enrolment.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, interviews are scheduled on the following dates:
- 17 June 2025 at 14:00, Room A, Via Botticelli 23 - 20133 Milan;
- 23 September 2025 at 14:00, Room A, Via Botticelli 23 - 20133 Milan;
Applicants will be required to present a valid ID, and a copy of the same to be given to the Admission Board. As the interview dates approaches, applicants should check their application email regularly, as they may receive urgent communications.
The interview dates indicated above are binding and applicants will not receive any personal invitation to the interview.
For transfer students (i.e. students transferring from another University or another degree programme of the University of Milan), credit recognition is governed by the applicable provisions of the University's Academic Regulations. With regard to credit recognition, the Academic Board decides on a case-by-case basis, including on the need for students to pass additional exams or modules to have certain credits recognised.
The award of transfer credits for educational activities completed abroad is also governed by the University's Academic Regulations.
Pursuant to article 5, paragraph 7, of Ministerial Decree 270/2004, students may be awarded a maximum of 24 credits (CFU/ECTS credits) for certified professional knowledge and skills and other competencies acquired during post-secondary training activities designed and implemented in collaboration with the University.
Application for admission:
As a general rule, Bachelor's graduates and upcoming graduates can apply for admission into the Master's degree programme in Earth Sciences between 22 January 2025 and 31 October 2025. Please note that upcoming graduates must in any case obtain their Bachelor's degree by 31 December 2025.
Both graduates and upcoming graduates must fill and submit the application form within the deadlines specified at https://www.unimi.it/en/study/bachelor-and-master-study/degree-programme-enrolment/enrolment-masters-programme/open-admission-master-programmes
N.B. During the interview, applicants will be asked to indicate which curriculum they would like to choose. Should they be admitted, they will have to confirm this choice when finalising enrolment.
Bachelor's graduates in Geological Sciences (L-34), as well as in the corresponding degree class pursuant to Ministerial Decree 509/99, are eligible to enrol in the Master's degree programme in Earth Sciences.
Bachelor's graduates of other degree programmes and applicants holding an equivalent foreign degree may also enrol in the programme, provided that they have completed adequate academic training in the core branches of Earth Sciences, i.e. they have earned at least 44 CFU/ECTS credits in the following scientific-disciplinary sectors: GEO/01, GEO/02, GEO/03, GEO/04, GEO/05, GEO/06, GEO/07, GEO/08, GEO/09, GEO/10, GEO/11, GEO/12.
Proficiency in English at a B2 level or higher under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required for admission.
The B2-level requirement will be ascertained by the University Language Centre (SLAM) during the admission process, as follows:
- language certificate at or above B2, obtained no more than three years earlier. For the list of language certificates recognised by the University, see https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322. Applicants must upload their certificate when submitting their application for admission;
- English level achieved during a University of Milan degree programme and certified by the University Language Centre (SLAM), including levels based on language certificates submitted by applicants during their Bachelor's degree at the University of Milan. Only levels certified in the last four years are considered valid. In this case the process is automatic, the applicant does not have to attach any certificates to the application;
- entry test administered by the University Language Centre (SLAM) according to the calendar published on the website: https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267. Those who fail to submit a valid certificate or do not meet the required proficiency level will be instructed, during the admission procedure, to take the entry test.
Applicants who do not take or pass the entry test will be required to obtain a language proficiency certificate recognised by the University (see https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322) and deliver it to the SLAM via the InformaStudenti service by the deadline fixed for the Master's programme (https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267/).
Applicants who do not meet the requirement by said deadline will not be admitted to the Master's degree programme and may not sit any further tests.
Admission assessment:
Before the start of teaching activities, applicants will be invited to an interview with the Admission Board, to assess their preparedness for the programme in terms of background knowledge and identify any learning gaps. The Admission Board is made up of professors appointed by the Academic Board. The interview will focus on the applicant's knowledge and skills in the fields of Earth science, with particular regard to the fundamentals of geology, geomorphology, petrology and geophysics.
Applicants who fail the interview will not be able to enrol in the programme.
Upcoming Bachelor's graduates can also apply for admission and take the interview, but they will have to obtain their Bachelor's degree by 31 December 2025 in order to finalise enrolment.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, interviews are scheduled on the following dates:
- 17 June 2025 at 14:00, Room A, Via Botticelli 23 - 20133 Milan;
- 23 September 2025 at 14:00, Room A, Via Botticelli 23 - 20133 Milan;
Applicants will be required to present a valid ID, and a copy of the same to be given to the Admission Board. As the interview dates approaches, applicants should check their application email regularly, as they may receive urgent communications.
The interview dates indicated above are binding and applicants will not receive any personal invitation to the interview.
For transfer students (i.e. students transferring from another University or another degree programme of the University of Milan), credit recognition is governed by the applicable provisions of the University's Academic Regulations. With regard to credit recognition, the Academic Board decides on a case-by-case basis, including on the need for students to pass additional exams or modules to have certain credits recognised.
The award of transfer credits for educational activities completed abroad is also governed by the University's Academic Regulations.
Pursuant to article 5, paragraph 7, of Ministerial Decree 270/2004, students may be awarded a maximum of 24 credits (CFU/ECTS credits) for certified professional knowledge and skills and other competencies acquired during post-secondary training activities designed and implemented in collaboration with the University.
Application for admission:
As a general rule, Bachelor's graduates and upcoming graduates can apply for admission into the Master's degree programme in Earth Sciences between 22 January 2025 and 31 October 2025. Please note that upcoming graduates must in any case obtain their Bachelor's degree by 31 December 2025.
Both graduates and upcoming graduates must fill and submit the application form within the deadlines specified at https://www.unimi.it/en/study/bachelor-and-master-study/degree-programme-enrolment/enrolment-masters-programme/open-admission-master-programmes
N.B. During the interview, applicants will be asked to indicate which curriculum they would like to choose. Should they be admitted, they will have to confirm this choice when finalising enrolment.
Admission
Application for admission: from 22/01/2025 to 31/10/2025
Application for matriculation: from 02/04/2025 to 15/01/2026
Attachments and documents
Online services
Learn more:
Programme description and courses list
First semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Electrical, Electromagnetic and Gravimetric Methods for Environmental and Exploration | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/11 |
Second semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Environmental Contamination and Mitigation | 9 | 76 | English | GEO/08 GEO/09 |
| Geotechnical, Hydrogeological and Geomorphological Survey | 9 | 96 | English | GEO/04 GEO/05 |
| Soil Geology and Applications | 9 | 92 | Italian | GEO/01 GEO/02 GEO/03 |
| Optional | ||||
| Subsurface Sedimentary Systems for the Energy Transition | 6 | 48 | Italian | GEO/02 |
be activated by the A.Y. 2026/2027
First semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Numerical Modeling for Geoengineering | 6 | 56 | Italian | GEO/05 |
First semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| 3d Structural Analysis: Methods and Applications | 6 | 60 | Italian | GEO/03 |
| Applied Geomorphology | 6 | 56 | Italian | GEO/04 |
| Hydrogeology and Groundwater Assessment | 6 | 60 | English | GEO/05 |
| Hydrostratigraphy | 6 | 64 | Italian | GEO/02 |
| Marine Geology | 6 | 52 | Italian | GEO/01 |
| Paleontology and Paleoenvironments | 6 | 48 | Italian | GEO/01 |
| Remote Sensing and Spatial Analisys for Geohazards And | 6 | 56 | Italian | GEO/04 GEO/05 |
| Seismology | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/10 |
| Stones and Their Analogues for Civil and Energy Engineering | 6 | 52 | Italian | GEO/07 |
Second semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Contamination and Remediation of Aquifers | 6 | 60 | Italian | GEO/05 |
| Geochemical Tracers and Applications | 6 | 52 | Italian | GEO/08 |
| Geographic Information System (GIS) | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/05 |
| Geophysics for Natural Hazards | 6 | 56 | Italian | GEO/12 |
| Geotechnics | 6 | 60 | English | ICAR/07 |
| Regional Geology | 6 | 60 | Italian | GEO/03 |
| Rocks and Minerals: Properties and Characterization | 6 | 56 | Italian | GEO/06 GEO/07 |
| Sedimentology and Applied Stratigraphy | 6 | 64 | Italian | GEO/02 |
| Slope Stability and Stabilization Methods | 6 | 60 | English | GEO/05 |
Not specified period
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Other Useful Knowledge for Entering the World of Work | 3 | 0 | Italian | |
Conclusive activities
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Training | 9 | 0 | Italian | |
Conclusive activities
There are no specific sessions for these activities (e.g. open online courses).
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Final Examination | 27 | 0 | Italian | |
Optional activities and study plan rules
1 - Students will have to choose 3 courses from the following list, maximum 2 per area, for a total of 18 CFU.
Scope 1 = GEO/01, GEO/02, GEO/03,
Scope 2 = GEO/04, GEO/05;
Scope 3 = GEO/06, GEO/07, GEO/08, GEO/09.
Scope 1 = GEO/01, GEO/02, GEO/03,
Scope 2 = GEO/04, GEO/05;
Scope 3 = GEO/06, GEO/07, GEO/08, GEO/09.
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3d Structural Analysis: Methods and Applications | 6 | 60 | Italian | First semester | GEO/03 |
| Applied Geomorphology | 6 | 56 | Italian | First semester | GEO/04 |
| Geographic Information System (GIS) | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/05 |
| Hydrogeology and Groundwater Assessment | 6 | 60 | English | First semester | GEO/05 |
| Hydrostratigraphy | 6 | 64 | Italian | First semester | GEO/02 |
| Marine Geology | 6 | 52 | Italian | First semester | GEO/01 |
| Rocks and Minerals: Properties and Characterization | 6 | 56 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/06 GEO/07 |
2 - Students will have to choose 3 courses, equal to 18 cfu from the following list:
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contamination and Remediation of Aquifers | 6 | 60 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/05 |
| Geochemical Tracers and Applications | 6 | 52 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/08 |
| Geophysics for Natural Hazards | 6 | 56 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/12 |
| Geotechnics | 6 | 60 | English | Second semester | ICAR/07 |
| Numerical Modeling for Geoengineering | 6 | 56 | Italian | First semester | GEO/05 |
| Paleontology and Paleoenvironments | 6 | 48 | Italian | First semester | GEO/01 |
| Regional Geology | 6 | 60 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/03 |
| Remote Sensing and Spatial Analisys for Geohazards And | 6 | 56 | Italian | First semester | GEO/04 GEO/05 |
| Sedimentology and Applied Stratigraphy | 6 | 64 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/02 |
| Seismology | 6 | 56 | English | First semester | GEO/10 |
| Slope Stability and Stabilization Methods | 6 | 60 | English | Second semester | GEO/05 |
| Stones and Their Analogues for Civil and Energy Engineering | 6 | 52 | Italian | First semester | GEO/07 |
| Subsurface Sedimentary Systems for the Energy Transition | 6 | 48 | Italian | Second semester | GEO/02 |
3 - The student must acquire 12 ECTS by freely choosing from all the courses activated by the University as long as they are culturally consistent with his/her educational path and do not overlap, in content, with the fundamental and optional courses already used in the study plan.
Therefore, all the courses present in this Study Manifesto that meet these criteria are included in the choice of 12 ECTS credits.
Therefore, all the courses present in this Study Manifesto that meet these criteria are included in the choice of 12 ECTS credits.
There are no preparatory courses between the teachings.
First semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Earth Surface Dynamics and Applied Geology | 9 | 84 | English | GEO/04 GEO/05 |
| Physics of the Earth's Interior | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/10 |
Second semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Earth and Planetary Materials: from Nature to Experiments | 9 | 84 | English | GEO/06 GEO/07 |
| Geological Process and Field Geology | 9 | 96 | English | GEO/01 GEO/02 GEO/03 |
| Optional | ||||
| Geodynamics | 6 | 52 | English | GEO/03 |
| Sedimentary Basins: Processes and Evolution | 6 | 48 | English | GEO/02 |
| Sedimentary Rock Diagenesis and Environmental Record | 6 | 52 | English | GEO/02 |
| Stratigraphy and Paleogeography | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/02 |
First semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Basement Geology and Microtectonics | 6 | 64 | English | GEO/03 |
| Climate and Hydro-Geological Hazard | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/04 GEO/05 |
| Crystal Chemistry and Crystallography | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/06 |
| Metallogenesis-Ore Minerals | 6 | 64 | English | GEO/09 |
| Micropaleontology | 6 | 60 | English | GEO/01 |
| Quaternary Landscapes and Human Landuse | 6 | 52 | English | GEO/04 |
| Sedimentology | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/02 |
Second semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Biostratigraphy and Biochronology | 6 | 48 | English | GEO/01 |
| Economic Geology and Sustainability | 6 | 48 | English | GEO/09 |
| Experimental and Computational Modeling in Petrology | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/07 |
| Geochemical Data Lab | 6 | 60 | English | GEO/08 |
| Geophysical Fluid Dynamics | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/12 |
| Physics and Chemistry of Minerals | 6 | 52 | English | GEO/06 |
| Raw Materials: from Prospection to Recycling | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/08 GEO/09 |
| Rocks and Fluids: Analytical Methods and Data Management | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/07 GEO/08 |
| Seismic and Wave Field Exploration | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/11 |
| Technological Properties of Minerals, Cements and Ceramics | 6 | 56 | English | GEO/06 GEO/09 |
Not specified period
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Other Useful Knowledge for Entering the World of Work | 3 | 0 | Italian | |
Conclusive activities
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Training | 9 | 0 | Italian | |
Conclusive activities
There are no specific sessions for these activities (e.g. open online courses).
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Final Examination | 27 | 0 | Italian | |
Optional activities and study plan rules
1 - Students will have to choose 3 courses from the following list, maximum 2 per area, for a total of 18 CFU.
Scope 1 = GEO/01, GEO/02, GEO/03,
Scope 2 = GEO/04, GEO/05;
Scope 3 = GEO/06, GEO/07, GEO/08, GEO/09.
Scope 1 = GEO/01, GEO/02, GEO/03,
Scope 2 = GEO/04, GEO/05;
Scope 3 = GEO/06, GEO/07, GEO/08, GEO/09.
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geodynamics | 6 | 52 | English | Second semester | GEO/03 |
| Micropaleontology | 6 | 60 | English | First semester | GEO/01 |
| Quaternary Landscapes and Human Landuse | 6 | 52 | English | First semester | GEO/04 |
| Raw Materials: from Prospection to Recycling | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/08 GEO/09 |
| Rocks and Fluids: Analytical Methods and Data Management | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/07 GEO/08 |
| Sedimentology | 6 | 56 | English | First semester | GEO/02 |
| Technological Properties of Minerals, Cements and Ceramics | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/06 GEO/09 |
2 - Students will have to choose 3 courses, equal to 18 cfu from the following list:
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basement Geology and Microtectonics | 6 | 64 | English | First semester | GEO/03 |
| Biostratigraphy and Biochronology | 6 | 48 | English | Second semester | GEO/01 |
| Climate and Hydro-Geological Hazard | 6 | 56 | English | First semester | GEO/04 GEO/05 |
| Crystal Chemistry and Crystallography | 6 | 56 | English | First semester | GEO/06 |
| Economic Geology and Sustainability | 6 | 48 | English | Second semester | GEO/09 |
| Experimental and Computational Modeling in Petrology | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/07 |
| Geochemical Data Lab | 6 | 60 | English | Second semester | GEO/08 |
| Geophysical Fluid Dynamics | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/12 |
| Metallogenesis-Ore Minerals | 6 | 64 | English | First semester | GEO/09 |
| Physics and Chemistry of Minerals | 6 | 52 | English | Second semester | GEO/06 |
| Sedimentary Basins: Processes and Evolution | 6 | 48 | English | Second semester | GEO/02 |
| Sedimentary Rock Diagenesis and Environmental Record | 6 | 52 | English | Second semester | GEO/02 |
| Seismic and Wave Field Exploration | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/11 |
| Stratigraphy and Paleogeography | 6 | 56 | English | Second semester | GEO/02 |
3 - The student must acquire 12 ECTS by freely choosing from all the courses activated by the University as long as they are culturally consistent with his/her educational path and do not overlap, in content, with the fundamental and optional courses already used in the study plan.
Therefore, all the courses present in this Study Manifesto that meet these criteria are included in the choice of 12 ECTS credits.
Therefore, all the courses present in this Study Manifesto that meet these criteria are included in the choice of 12 ECTS credits.
There are no preparatory courses between the teachings.
Learn more
Location
Milan
Course locations
Teaching infrastructures for the Bachelor's degree programme in Earth Sciences are located in the three structures of the Department of Earth Sciences "A. Desio". The main teaching areas are: Geology and Paleontology (via L. Mangiagalli, 34); Mineralogy, Petrography, Geochemistry and Mineral Fields and Geophisics via Botticelli, 23/via L. Mangiagalli, 32.
Laboratory locations
Lab activities take place both in the department laboratories, which boast technical and scientific equipment and collections, as well as on the field, thanks to customised logistics solutions.
Educational collections for the recognition and study of fossils, minerals and rocks are available in classrooms and ad-hoc teaching laboratories. Computer classrooms offer software for data processing and for the simulation of geological processes.
Scientific instruments available at the Department of Earth Sciences (https://distad.unimi.it/en/teaching/projects-and-workshops/lab-activities) offer students the chance to learn and apply techniques for the characterisation of minerals, fossils, rocks, soils, other natural or synthetic materials, as well as water and other terrestrial fluids. Practical exercises are carried out in laboratories of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray spectrometry, micro-Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and experimental petrology, mechanics of rocks and sedimentology.
Field laboratories take place in areas which are particularly suited for learning geological mapping techniques. These laboratories also rely on the collaboration with data processing facilities, for example the Valchiavenna station.
Educational collections for the recognition and study of fossils, minerals and rocks are available in classrooms and ad-hoc teaching laboratories. Computer classrooms offer software for data processing and for the simulation of geological processes.
Scientific instruments available at the Department of Earth Sciences (https://distad.unimi.it/en/teaching/projects-and-workshops/lab-activities) offer students the chance to learn and apply techniques for the characterisation of minerals, fossils, rocks, soils, other natural or synthetic materials, as well as water and other terrestrial fluids. Practical exercises are carried out in laboratories of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray spectrometry, micro-Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and experimental petrology, mechanics of rocks and sedimentology.
Field laboratories take place in areas which are particularly suited for learning geological mapping techniques. These laboratories also rely on the collaboration with data processing facilities, for example the Valchiavenna station.
Head of study programme
Academic guidance tutor
Study plan tutor
Internship tutor
Master's degree admission tutor
Quality Assurance Delegate
Reference structures
Contacts
- Teaching Office
Via Botticelli, 23 Milano piano terra
https://informastudenti.unimi.it/saw/ess?AUTH=SAML
solo su appuntamento attraverso InformaStudenti - Student Secretariats
Via Celoria, 18 Milano
https://www.unimi.it/it/studiare/servizi-gli-studenti/segreterie-informastudenti
+390250325032
solo su appuntamento attraverso InformaStudenti - Director of the Departmental Library: Dr. Fabio Bottazzi
Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 34 piano terra
[email protected]
solo per appuntamento via mail - Contact person for Disability: Prof.ssa Maria Rose Petrizzo
Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 34
[email protected]
solo per appuntamento via mail
The tuition fees for students enrolled in Bachelor's, Master's and single-cycle degree programmes are divided into two instalments with different calculation methods and payment schedules:
- The amount of the first instalment is the same for all students
- The amount of the second instalment varies according to the ISEE University value, the degree programme and the student status (on track / off track for one year or off track for more than a year)
- An additional fee is due for online programmes
The University also offers:
- Concessions for students meeting high merit requirements
- Diversified tuition fees according to the student's home country for international students with assets/income abroad
- Concessions for international students with refugee status
Scholarships and benefits
The University provides a range of financial benefits to students meeting special requirements (merit, financial or personal conditions, international students).
Learn more
Guidance:
Admission, ranking and enrolment