Vilnius University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in Earth sciences combining theoretical subjects, laboratory techniques and substantial field training. Core topics include mineralogy and crystallography, petrology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, structural geology, geochemistry and geophysics. Applied modules cover hydrogeology, engineering and environmental geology, Quaternary geology and geomorphology, as well as mapping techniques and palaeontology.

• Practical and laboratory work — thin section petrography, geochemical analysis, sediment and soil testing, and geophysical measurements.
• Field courses — regional mapping, coastal and Quaternary studies, and multi‑day excursions to practise geological mapping, sampling and interpretation in Baltic and neighbouring terrains.
• Data and technology — geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, geological data interpretation and use of specialist software for modelling and mapping.
• Research project / Bachelor thesis — an independent research project under academic supervision that integrates literature review, field/lab work and written reporting.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a recognised secondary school leaving qualification that allows progression to higher education. Strong background in natural sciences or mathematics is recommended; courses in physics, chemistry and geography are particularly relevant. Lithuanian‑language variants require competence in Lithuanian, while programmes taught in English require evidence of English language ability through a recognised certificate or prior study in English.

International applicants should consult the university’s admissions office for details about application documentation, validation of foreign qualifications and any preparatory examinations. Mature applicants and those with relevant vocational experience may be considered under the university’s alternative admissions routes.

Career prospects

Graduates of the geology bachelor programme are prepared for roles across environmental, resource and surveying sectors or for further study at master’s level. Typical career paths include:

• Environmental and engineering geology positions (site investigations, contamination assessment, geohazard evaluations)
• Hydrogeology and groundwater resource management
• Work with national or regional geological surveys and mapping agencies
• Mineral exploration and mining industry roles (field geologist, sample processing)
• Geotechnical and construction consultancy (often undertaken with additional specialised training)
• GIS and remote sensing specialist roles related to spatial analysis of geological data
• Research and academia — progression to MSc/PhD for careers in research or university teaching

Why study at Vilnius University

Vilnius University is the oldest and one of the largest centres of higher education and research in Lithuania with an established tradition in the natural sciences. The geology programme combines theoretical teaching with extensive fieldwork in the Baltic region, access to modern laboratories and collaboration with national geological institutions.

Students benefit from multidisciplinary links across the university, Erasmus and international exchange opportunities, and supervision by staff actively engaged in regional geological research — from Quaternary deposits to applied environmental geology. Small group field training and hands‑on laboratory practice equip graduates with both practical skills and academic grounding valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.