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This course will focus on tectonic and structural aspects of convergent and divergent plate margins. It will give an overview on subduction zones, collisional orogens as well as extensional margins and rift. We will be seeking to discover what structural geology can tell us about mountain building processes, relationships between deformation and metamorphism and the feedback between tectonics and climate.
This course will focus on the geometries, kinematics and growth of structures in contractional, extensional and strike-slip settings. In addition, we will examine regional tectonic convergent and divergent processes, the role of faults in fluid flow and fault inversion. The course also includes a one day fieldtrip which will be linked to the seminar series. Students will be required to undertake background or follow-up reading, and will occasionally have some set problems to tackle. Some understanding of deformation processes together with structural geology terminology and techniques is recommended.
The course will provide an overview on the application of structural geology to solving tectonic and fluid flow problems. Students successfully completing this course will:Have a general knowledge of how and why structures form.Be aware of the techniques used to investigate the geometry and evolution of structures in a range of settings. Have some knowledge of techniques appropriate for dating tectonic events.Have some understanding of feedback processes between tectonics, sedimentation and climate.Be aware of current research trends in structural geology.
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:
Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award
Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
Employable, innovative and enterprising
Students will develop key skills and attributes sought by employers that can be used in a range of applications.
Globally aware
Students will comprehend the influence of global conditions on their discipline and will be competent in engaging with global and multi-cultural contexts.
Subject to approval of the Head of Department.
Students must attend one activity from each section.
Andy Nicol
Recommended ReadingFossen, H. 2016. Structural Geology. Cambridge University Press. Ramsay and Huber “The Techniques of Modern Structural Geology” volumes I, II, III, Academic Press.Moores and Twiss "Tectonics", Freeman.
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Domestic fee $1,253.00
International Postgraduate fees
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see School of Earth and Environment on the departments and faculties page .