Undergraduate study in Earth Sciences
What can you study in Earth Sciences?
You can study Earth Sciences as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).
The Earth Sciences explore the processes that have shaped Earth, from its deepest interior to its surface, and out into neighbouring space. It investigates the complexity and interactions of Earth’s systems, and addresses the impact of natural processes on society, and vice versa.
Courses in the Earth Sciences major cover some of the following topics:
- Earth’s origin and evolution
- Earth’s surface and subsurface processes
- Sustainable resource exploration
- Past life, climates and environments
- Plate tectonics
- Engineering geology
Structuring your programme
Explore the Bachelor of Science major in Earth Sciences schedule in the Curriculum Catalogue to find the courses you can study in this major.
You will also complete a capstone course in your final year of study. Within this you will complete an individual research report as part of a group-based project.
For Earth Sciences, we recommend the capstone course EARTHSCI 399. In this course you will carry out research or practice in Earth Sciences using the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout your studies.
Earth Science Pathways are no longer offered. Any student with a current enrolment in an Earth Science Pathway should contact Barry O’Connor b.oconnor@auckland.ac.nz for advice on completion of their Pathway.
Complementary majors
- Anthropological Science
- Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution
- Cell and Molecular Bioscience
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Physics
- Statistics
Preparing for your Earth Sciences major
Some students will feel more prepared for our Earth Sciences courses if they have already studied some science subjects in high school.
Find out which school subjects will help you feel prepared by reading our Subject guide for school students.
Where can undergraduate study in Earth Sciences take you?
Earth Science graduates are in demand globally, mainly as geologists. Their work is varied and exciting. For instance, they meet challenges associated with sustaining energy supplies and new infrastructure development, develop low-carbon economies, and mitigate changing climates.
Earth Science graduates have a unique breadth of understanding across both the geology and physical geography disciplines. They are therefore suited to broad range of careers.
Where our Earth Science graduates work
- Natural hazards monitoring, management and mitigation
- Land development, engineering geological ground investigations
- Environmental management
- Sustainable mineral exploration and extraction
- Groundwater Exploration and Management
Further study options
Help and advice
Student Hubs
Visit a Student Hub for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.
The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland.
Student Hub services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau, with friendly staff available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.