Russian State Geological Prospecting University

Russian State Geological Prospecting University Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide: Moscow Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Russian State Geological Prospecting University (RSGPU, also known as MGRI or the Sergo Ordzhonikidze Russian State University for Geological Prospecting) is a cornerstone of Moscow’s scientific and educational landscape. Established in 1918 to address the Soviet Union’s urgent need for geologists and mining engineers, the university has evolved into a world-class center for earth sciences, pioneering mineral exploration and fostering a global alumni network (studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.3; EduRank).

Visitors to RSGPU encounter a unique blend of historical architecture, modern research facilities, and a celebrated Geological Museum, all located in one of Moscow’s most dynamic districts. With its significant role in scientific discovery—such as the identification of nearly 300 new minerals, including “MGRiit”—RSGPU stands as both a living monument of Russian geology and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in science, history, or culture (alluniversity.info; studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.4).

This guide provides comprehensive information for tourists, prospective students, scholars, and geology enthusiasts planning to explore RSGPU. It includes details on visiting hours, ticketing, guided tours, campus highlights, historical significance, academic achievements, and nearby attractions—ensuring you have everything needed for a memorable visit (mabumbe.com; Alumnius.net; www.mgri.ru).

Russian State Geological Prospecting University named after Sergo Ordzhonikidze building exterior

Overview and Historical Background
Academic Structure and Research Focus
Campus Highlights
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Guided Tours and Exhibitions
Accessibility and Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Rankings and Recognition
FAQs
Travel Tips
Summary and Planning Your Visit
Official Sources

Overview and Historical Background

Foundation and Early Years (1918–1948)

RSGPU was founded in 1918 as part of the Moscow Mining Academy, quickly establishing itself as a center for geological sciences under the leadership of Professor Ivan Gubkin. By 1930, it gained independence and was renamed to honor Sergo Ordzhonikidze, reflecting its importance in Soviet industrialization (studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.3; alluniversity.info). The university expanded its academic reach and facilities in the following decades, including the creation of a training base in Crimea (1934) and opening doors to international students (1948).

Achievements and Global Impact

Scientific Discoveries: Alumni have discovered over 200 mineral deposits worldwide, identified nearly 300 new minerals, and contributed significantly to paleontology (studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.4).
Recognition: Awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labor in 1969, and honored by several countries for its contributions to geological sciences (studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.3).
Modernization: The move to a new campus in southwest Moscow in 1987 marked a new era of growth and international collaboration (mabumbe.com).

Academic Structure and Research Focus

RSGPU offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in geology, mining engineering, hydrogeology, and related fields (mabumbe.com). The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical learning and practical field training, supported by advanced laboratories and a leading Engineering Center focused on mineral formation studies and sustainable resource extraction (studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.18).

Key Research Areas:

Geology and Mineralogy
Mining Engineering
Environmental Science
Geophysics and Planetary Science
Paleontology

Notable Alumni:

Valeri Barsukov: Pioneer in comparative planetology (EduRank Alumni)
Oleg Kuznetsov: President, Russian Academy of Natural Sciences
Ilya Segalovich: Co-founder and CTO of Yandex
Phạm Nhật Vượng: Vietnam’s first USD billionaire (Alumnius.net)

Campus Highlights

Geological Museum

A centerpiece of RSGPU, the Geological Museum offers:

Over 10,000 mineral specimens, including rare Russian gems
Fossil collections from across Eurasia
Interactive exhibits on mineral formation, tectonics, and paleontology

Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00–17:00 (closed weekends/public holidays) Admission: Free for students; 150 RUB for adults
Guided Tours: Available by prior arrangement, with English-language support

Outdoor Geological Park

Open year-round during daylight hours, the park features:

Large rock specimens from different Russian regions
Informative plaques (Russian and English)
Themed walking paths through igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic displays

Academic and Research Facilities

State-of-the-art laboratories in geophysics, petrology, and hydrogeology
Engineering Center for environmentally friendly resource development
Library with over 1 million volumes and rare geological maps

Campus Art and Monuments

Monuments to leading geologists and mosaics depicting earth science themes can be found throughout the campus.

Visiting Information

Location and Access

Address: Miklukho-Maklaya Street, 23, Moscow
Nearest Metro: Belyayevo (Калужско-Рижская линия)
Bus and taxi options widely available

Visiting Hours and Tickets

General Campus: Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00; weekends by appointment
Geological Museum: Monday–Friday, 10:00–17:00
Outdoor Geological Park: Open daily during daylight
Tickets: Campus and park are free; museum admission is 150 RUB (free for students)

Guided Tours and Exhibitions

Arrange tours in advance through the university website or visitor center. Group and English-language tours are available.

Accessibility and Amenities

Campus is generally accessible for visitors with disabilities; some older buildings may have limitations
On-site café and bookstore
Photography is permitted in most public spaces (no flash in museum galleries)

Nearby Attractions

Moscow State University (MSU): Iconic Stalinist skyscraper and panoramic city views (learn more)
MSU Zoological Museum
Botanical Gardens (MSU and Apothecary Garden)
Red Square, Kremlin, Gorky Park (easily reached via metro)

Rankings and Recognition

RSGPU is consistently ranked among Russia’s top universities for geological sciences and environmental research (edurank.org). It is featured in the QS TOP 500 Global Green Universities list, highlighting its dedication to sustainability (studyabroad.mpei.ru, p.7).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00 for the campus; Geological Museum is open 10:00–17:00 on weekdays; outdoor park is open daily during daylight hours.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: General campus and park access are free; museum admission is 150 RUB (free for students).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book in advance through the university website or visitor center.

Q: Is the campus accessible by public transport?
A: Yes, via Belyayevo metro and several bus lines.

Q: Is the campus wheelchair accessible?
A: Most facilities are accessible; contact the university for specific needs.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, except where restricted in certain galleries.

Travel Tips

Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for pleasant weather
Language: Russian is primary, but English materials available for tours/museum
Dining: Campus cafeteria and nearby cafes offer affordable meals
Special events: Science Festival, International Geological Conference, and Open House Days are ideal for deeper engagement

Summary

The Russian State Geological Prospecting University is both a scientific powerhouse and a vibrant museum of geological heritage. Its historic campus, impressive museum collections, and commitment to research make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Moscow’s history, science, and culture. Plan your visit by checking the latest information on the official university website, and enhance your experience with guided audio tours and updates available via the Audiala app.