Geology
Mātai Aronuku
Scholarships
Ranking
Top 200 in the world for Geology (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2022)
Download Brochure
Scholarships
Ranking
Top 200 in the world for Geology (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2022)
Download Brochure
Qualifications
Overview
Geology explores the earth building processes of our planet, so that we can best use natural resources, plan land developments and infrastructure, and monitor natural hazards such as volcanoes and earthquakes.
With over 500 million years of geological history, Aotearoa is a rich and unique place to study this earth science.
- Focus on climate change, natural disasters, and other earth systems affecting geological processes.
- Learn from our experts on earthquake research, with opportunities to take part in real disaster response and observation.
- Complete practical lab and field work in various stations across Te Waipounamu South Island visiting real geological phenomena, such as earthquake faultlines and volcanoes.
Geology major
For the major in the Bachelor of Science, complete the following courses:
100-level
- GEOL111 Planet Earth: An Introduction to Geology
- GEOL113 Geohazards OR GEOL115 The Dynamic Earth System
200-level
- Three 200-level GEOL courses
GEOL240 Field Studies A – Mapping and GEOL241 Field Studies B – Field Techniques are recommended. These are field studies courses in which you will learn the techniques of geological observation, data collection, and field mapping. Excursions are run to several different locations, including to Kawatiri Westport on Te Tai Poutini the West Coast of Te Waipounamu the South Island, where there is a modern, well-equipped field station.
300-level
GEOL351 Advanced Field Techniques or GEOL352 Advanced Field Mapping are recommended.
If you are interested in postgraduate studies in Geology, you will also need to take four 100-level courses from Astronomy, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Mathematics, Physics, or Statistics.
Geology minor
For the minor in the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Health Sciences, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability, Bachelor of Sport Coaching, or Bachelor of Youth and Community Leadership, complete the following courses:
- 75 points in 100 to 300-level GEOL courses, with at least 45 points above 100-level
Study in Geology offers a wide range of work environments and employment opportunities across the globe, particularly in areas of science and engineering informing on old and new earth developments.
Some career pathways can include:
- Energy, mining, and petroleum industries
- Government and Geotechnical planning
- Conservation
- Research and exploration.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Geology.
Contact us
Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth and Environment
Phone +64 3 369 0655
Email earthandenvironment@canterbury.ac.nz
Location
Level 2, Beatrice Tinsley building – see campus maps
Postal address
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
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