The theory and practical aspects of the techniques of sample preparation, X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, acid decomposition and digestion, column separation, liquid elemental and isotopic analysis are studied. Other techniques including Mossbauer, infra-red spectroscopy, and synchrotron methods will also be covered. An extensive term project is required where the student employs these techniques to hands-on study of a geological material in the analytical laboratories of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering.