Geological fieldwork can be conveniently divided into three parts: reconnaissance, geological mapping, and more detailed geological analysis – all of which are necessary in building up a picture of the geological history of a given area. This field class, which takes place in June immediately after the end of the second year, deals with the third, detailed phase of geological fieldwork, and forms the final part of training for your independent field project and subsequent dissertation write-up. Using comfortable self-catering accommodation in Bundoran, County Donegal as a base, we examine sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks in Donegal and Sligo. Bringing together knowledge and techniques from all the theory modules taken in Years One and Two, you will undertake projects that correspond to the main phases of the geological history of the north of Ireland: regional and contact metamorphism and deformation of Dalradian rocks; Carboniferous basin formation and fill; Palaeogene igneous intrusions. Students are assessed on the basis of their individual field notebooks, as well as for their contribution to two group projects. In addition to gaining a thorough understanding of the geology of this part of northwest Ireland, you will also develop invaluable skills in problem solving and independent working.