Undergraduate study in Geology

What can you study in Geology?

You can study Geology as a specialisation in the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (BAdvSci(Hons)). From 2019 you can also study Geology as a pathway in the Earth Sciences major of a Bachelor of Science (BSc). 

This specialisation will provide you with a strong foundation in the following topics:

  • Geomorphology
  • Earth history
  • Earth materials
  • Earth structure

We’ve created a compulsory field and laboratory geology skills course, which will provide you with an opportunity for advanced practice and research preparation. In your fourth year you’ll tackle an independent research project and dissertation under the guidance of an academic mentor.

Structuring your BAdvSci(Hons) specialisation in Geology, from 2019

Your BAdvSci(Hons) programme will consist of a number of courses worth 15 points each, totalling 480 points. For your Geology specialisation you must complete the following courses:   

45 points:

75 points:

30 points:

  • EARTHSCI 315 Field and Laboratory Geology Skills*
  • EARTHSCI 320 Practice in Earth Sciences II*

45 points from:

60 points from:

60 points:

  • EARTHSCI 785 Honours Dissertation in Geology*

Where can undergraduate study in Geology take you?

The scientific study of our Earth is more important now than ever. A large, increasing world population is demanding more energy, food and minerals from the planet. Urbanisation and population pressure are making huge demands for buildings, infrastructure and water.

Trained geologists find employment locally and internationally, working for environmental consultancies, geological and exploration companies, engineering companies, territorial local authorities or the central government.

Jobs related to Geology include:

  • Assessing natural hazards (volcanoes, earthquakes)
  • Coal field development
  • Engineering site investigations
  • Environmental impact audits
  • Geological surveys and mapping
  • Geochemical and geophysical exploration
  • Land stability studies
  • Mineral processing and mining
  • Oceanography
  • Petroleum and natural gas location and assessment
  • Rock and mineral resources survey

Further study options:

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Science
  • Master of Science
  • Master of Engineering Geology
  • Doctor of Philosophy 

Scholarships and awards

Each year we award scholarships and prizes to thousands of students.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for, search available scholarships or begin an application by visiting Scholarships and awards.

Help and advice

For further information and advice, please contact the Science Student Centre.

Science Student Centre
Room G20, Level G
(beside the entrance to the Large Chemistry Lecture Theatre)
Building 301
23 Symonds Street
Auckland 1010

Phone: +64 9 923 7020
Email: scifac@auckland.ac.nz
Web: www.env.auckland.ac.nz

Undergraduate programmes

Related subjects