Environmental Geosciences Course | IIT(ISM) Dhanbad | Prof. P.K. Singh
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 326 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Elective |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Categories | Environmental Sciences, Energy, Climate and Sustainability, Energy and Environment |
| Credit Points | 3 |
| Level | Undergraduate/Postgraduate |
| Start Date | 19 Jan 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 02 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 25 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Environmental Geosciences: Bridging Earth Science and Sustainability
In an era defined by climate change and resource scarcity, understanding the intricate systems of our planet is not just academic—it's imperative. The field of Environmental Geosciences sits at this critical crossroads, offering the tools to decipher Earth's processes and forge a path toward sustainable coexistence. This detailed exploration introduces a premier 12-week course designed and delivered by a leading expert in the field, offering unparalleled insights for the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Meet Your Instructor: A Renowned Expert in the Field
The course is led by Prof. Prasoon Kumar Singh, an esteemed Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Science & Engineering at IIT(ISM), Dhanbad. With a robust academic and professional background, Prof. Singh is uniquely qualified to guide students through this complex subject.
His expertise is built on a solid foundation: a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science & Engineering and a doctorate in Environmental Hydrogeology. Before his academic tenure, he contributed over 14 years of pioneering research as a Scientist at the CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR).
Prof. Singh's work primarily focuses on Water Resource Planning & Management, where he has successfully completed R&D projects for esteemed bodies like the Ministry of Water Resources. His scholarly impact is significant, having guided over 12 Ph.D. and 50 M.Tech. scholars, and authored more than 60 research publications. His contributions were recognized with the Research Ratna Award 2019 from the World Research Council.
He is an active member of numerous prestigious professional bodies, including:
- International Association of Hydrological Sciences (IAHS), UK
- Indian Association of Hydrologists (Life Member)
- Society of Earth Scientists (Fellow)
- Indian Geological Congress (Life Member)
- NABET-QCI accredited Functional Area Expert for EIA in Geology & Hydrogeology
Course Overview: What is Environmental Geosciences?
Environmental Geosciences is the interdisciplinary study of the dynamic interactions between the Earth's physical components—the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere—and human activities. This field is crucial for diagnosing environmental problems, from pollution to resource depletion, and developing scientifically-grounded, sustainable solutions. It is the key to managing vital natural resources like water, minerals, and energy for future generations.
Who Should Enroll?
- Intended Audience: Undergraduate & Postgraduate students, Research Scholars, and Officials from Industry seeking to deepen their understanding of Earth systems.
- Prerequisites: A B.Tech/BE in Civil or Environmental Engineering, or an MSc in Environmental Science/Geology.
- Industry Support: Highly relevant for professionals in Research Institutes, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and Government Institutes.
Detailed 12-Week Course Curriculum
The course is meticulously structured to build knowledge from fundamental concepts to advanced applications.
| Week | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction, Origin & Structure of Earth, Earth's Spheres, Plate Tectonics |
| Week 2 | Weathering, Erosion, Geological Work of Wind, Rivers, and Glaciers |
| Week 3 | Structural Geology (Dip, Strike, Folds, Faults), Geological Hazards (Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Floods, Landslides) |
| Week 4 | Crystallography, Mineralogy & Properties of Silicate, Sulphide, Oxide Minerals |
| Week 5 | Petrology: Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic Rocks |
| Week 6 | Hydrogeology: Water Distribution, Groundwater Provinces of India, Hydrological Cycle, Aquifers |
| Week 7 | Groundwater Movement (Darcy's Law), Fluctuations, and Pollution |
| Week 8 | Stratigraphy of India, Paleontology (Fossils) |
| Week 9 | Pedology: Soil Formation, Erosion, Physical & Chemical Properties |
| Week 10 | Fossil Fuels and Conservation of Non-Renewable Resources |
| Week 11 | Geochemistry of Elements, Geophysical Exploration Methods |
| Week 12 | Modern Tools: Remote Sensing & GIS Applications, Climate Change Impact on Water Resources |
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Comprehend the fundamental principles governing Earth's systems and processes.
- Analyze geological structures and assess associated environmental hazards.
- Evaluate the occurrence, movement, and contamination of groundwater resources.
- Understand the formation and classification of rocks, minerals, and soils.
- Apply geoscientific knowledge to issues of resource management and climate change.
- Utilize modern tools like GIS and Remote Sensing for environmental assessment.
Recommended Textbooks & Resources
- Textbook of Geology by P. K. Mukerjee
- Textbook of Engineering & General Geology by Parbin Singh
- Geology for Engineers & Environmental Scientists by Alan E. Kehew
This course, under the expert guidance of Prof. P.K. Singh, represents a unique opportunity to gain a holistic and applied understanding of Environmental Geosciences. It equips learners with the knowledge to not only interpret the Earth's past and present but also to responsibly steward its future. Whether you aim to advance in academia, research, or industry, this program provides the critical foundation for a career dedicated to solving the world's most pressing environmental challenges.
Enroll Now →