Universitat de Barcelona

Master's Degree in Geosciences for the Energy Transition

The master’s programme is aimed at graduates in geology, physics, geological engineering, and related fields who are interested in developing a professional or academic career in the field of geosciences and the energy transition.

Knowledge and Content

• Describe the fundamental geological principles involved in the identification, assessment, and exploitation of energy resources in the context of the transition toward renewable energy sources.
• Describe the geophysical foundations required for the identification, characterization, and monitoring of energy resources in the context of the transition toward renewable energy sources.
• Identify the appropriate geological techniques for studying and managing the subsurface in energy transition projects.
• Identify the suitable geophysical methods for studying and managing the subsurface in energy transition projects.
• Describe the key aspects of the energy transition and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Recognise the relevance of geosciences in the current energy context and their contribution to the transformation of the energy, economic, and social model.
• Understand the legislative foundations and regulatory framework required for the professional management of projects related to the application of geosciences to the energy transition.

Skills

• Apply advanced geological field methodologies and techniques effectively for the study of geological formations relevant to the exploration, production, and storage of energy resources.
• Operate geophysical and laboratory instrumentation for data acquisition and analysis in studies related to the characterization of geological formations and the evaluation of energy resources.
• Use graphical representation tools and geospatial data visualisation techniques for geoscientific subsurface analysis in the context of the energy transition.
• Use specialised geoscience software and technology for data processing, geological and geophysical characterization and modelling, and subsurface management in geoenergy projects.
• Interpret data obtained from geophysical and geological investigations for the identification of energy resource reservoirs, applying principles of geosciences as they relate to the energy transition.
• Use information sources specific to geosciences applied to the energy transition in a critical, appropriate, and responsible manner.
• Communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, using the specialised language of geosciences applied to the energy transition.

Competences

• Plan geological and geophysical data acquisition campaigns, taking into account the mathematical, physical, and geological foundations relevant to the problem at hand.
• Integrate data and results from diverse origins using computational and analytical techniques for subsurface interpretation in exploration, production, and geoenergy storage projects.
• Contribute to the design and execution of both research and professional projects related to the applications of geosciences in the energy transition.
• Assess the social and environmental impact of actions in the field of geosciences applied to the energy transition and of human activities, with the aim of contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Apply critical reasoning and demonstrate commitment to the plurality and diversity of contemporary society, respecting fundamental rights, gender equality, and non‑discrimination in contexts where geosciences applied to the energy transition play a relevant role.
• Demonstrate attitudes consistent with ethical principles, professional codes of conduct, and intellectual integrity, with awareness of the social implications of activities related to geosciences applied to the energy transition.
• Work efficiently and collaboratively in both disciplinary and interdisciplinary teams in the design, management, planning, and execution of projects and collective challenges in geosciences applied to the energy transition.
• Apply knowledge and skills specific to geosciences applied to the energy transition in practical situations.
• Use diagnostic capacity and creativity to solve problems in the field of geosciences applied to the energy transition.
• Demonstrate autonomous learning skills based on analytical capacity, reflection, synthesis, global perspectives, and expert reasoning in geosciences applied to the energy transition.

The Master’s Degree in Geosciences for the Energy Transition aims to train highly skilled professionals in geology and geophysics, with a strong applied focus on the energy challenges associated with the transition to sustainable energy systems. This programme provides a solid scientific and technical foundation that enables students to understand, analyse, and address issues related to the sustainable use of geological resources.

The master’s programme delves into advanced concepts in geology and geophysics, focusing on key areas of the structural transformation of the energy system, such as geothermal energy, underground storage of energy carriers and CO₂, and the responsible exploration of hydrocarbons and natural hydrogen. Students will acquire the competencies needed to assess the energy potential of geothermal systems, design strategies for energy storage in geological formations, and optimise the exploration and production of hydrocarbons and natural hydrogen while minimising environmental impact.

The programme promotes an interdisciplinary perspective that combines technical knowledge with analytical and advanced modelling skills, ensuring that graduates are prepared to lead innovative projects in the energy sector. Through practical training based on cutting‑edge technologies and real case studies, the master’s degree contributes to the development of scientific solutions that support an efficient and sustainable energy transition.