Undergraduate 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:

• Geological skills
  
• Earth history
• Rocks and minerals
  
• Earth structure and tectonics
  

We’ve created a compulsory course in field and laboratory geology skills, 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.

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:

• EARTHSCI 102 Foundation for Earth Sciences
• EARTHSCI 120 Planet Earth
• GEOG 101 Earth Surface Processes and Landforms

75 points:

• EARTHSCI 202 Earth History
• EARTHSCI 203 Rocks and Minerals
• EARTHSCI 208 Earth Structure
• EARTHSCI 220 Practice in Earth Sciences 1
• EARTHSCI 262 Geomorphology

30 points:

• EARTHSCI 315 Field and Laboratory Geology Skills
• EARTHSCI 320 Practice in Earth Sciences 2

45 points from:

• EARTHSCI 303 Sedimentary Systems 
• EARTHSCI 304 Petrology and Geochemistry of Igneous Systems
• EARTHSCI 305 Tectonics and Geodynamics
• EARTHSCI 306 Applied Earth Sciences
• EARTHSCI 307 Dynamic Quaternary Environments
• EARTHSCI 361 Exploration Geophysics
• EARTHSCI 372 Engineering Geology

60 points from:

• EARTHSCI 703 Hydrothermal Systems: Geothermal Energy and Ore Deposits
• EARTHSCI 704 Directed Study in Earth Sciences
• EARTHSCI 705 Geohazards
• EARTHSCI 706 Special Topic
• EARTHSCI 707 Special Topics in Earth Sciences
• EARTHSCI 708 Research Topic in Earth Sciences
• EARTHSCI 713 Tectonic Geomorphology
• EARTHSCI 714 Earthquake Geology
• EARTHSCI 720 Geochemistry of Our World
• EARTHSCI 732 Reconstructing Environmental Change
• EARTHSCI 752 Understanding Volcanic Systems
• EARTHSCI 754 Pure and Applied Sedimentology
• EARTHSCI 760 Integrated Basin Exploration
• EARTHSCI 763 Sub-surface Geophysical Exploration
• EARTHSCI 770 Engineering Geological Mapping
• EARTHSCI 771 Advanced Engineering Geology
• EARTHSCI 772 Hydrogeology
• EARTHSCI 780 Advanced Field Earth Sciences
• GEOPHYS 761 Subsurface Characterisation with Geophysical Methods

60 points:

• EARTHSCI 785 BAdvSci(Hons) Dissertation in Geology

Geologists are in demand globally. From meeting challenges associated with sustaining energy supplies and new infrastructure development, to developing low-carbon economies, and understanding, and mitigating against changing climates, there are many exciting opportunities available.

Our geologists find employment locally and internationally, working for environmental consultancies, engineering companies, the resource/ energy sector, and for local authorities and the central government.

Where our Geology graduates work

• Environmental management

• Land development, engineering geological ground investigations

• Natural hazards monitoring, management and mitigation

• Sustainable mineral exploration and extraction

• Groundwater management
  

Further study options

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

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.

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