Bachelor of Science (Geology)

Course summary

Geology is the scientific study of the physical structure and composition of the Earth and the tectonic processes that shape our planet. Geologists play a critical role in the discovery, sustainable extraction and management of Earth’s resources.

The Bachelor of Science major in Geology combines a range of skills involving fieldwork, laboratory techniques and problem-solving skills to address key questions relating to our planet. These range from mapping the Earth from space to monitoring natural hazards, to finding critical metals required for high-tech industry and renewable energy storage.

This degree will provide numerous potential career pathways as exploration and resource geologists in mining and energy industries, geohazard mitigation, in environmental remediation (e.g. waste management, water), geotechnical engineering, government, and cutting-edge research in universities.

Course Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes are statements of learning achievement that are expressed in terms of what the learner is expected to know, understand and be able to do upon completion of a course. Students graduating from this course will be able to demonstrate:

Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of the principles and concepts associated with a specific discipline area of science. Demonstrate technical and cognitive skills in locating, discriminating and explaining information in relation to an area of science. Exercise critical thinking and problem-solving. Demonstrate how knowledge and skills in an area of science can be applied in scientific or scholarly works. Communicate clearly and coherently knowledge and ideas to others.

Course Structure

To qualify for an award of the degree, the Bachelor of Science (Geology), a candidate must successfully complete at least 144 credit points, as outlined below.

Year 1

Autumn

Select ONE of the following two subjects: Note: Students who have achieved a mark of 65% or more in NSW HSC Chemistry or equivalent must select CHEM101. All other students must select CHEM104.

Total for major at Year 1: 24 credit points

Recommended Electives

Year 2

Total for major at Year 2: 24 credit points

Recommended Electives

Year 3^

Total for major at Year 2: 24 credit points

Recommended Electives

Total for major: 72 credit points Plus elective subjects chosen from the Science or General Schedules: 72 credit points Degree Total: 144 credit points

• Students who have not completed HSC Mathematics at Band 4 or higher (or equivalent) are required to complete a mathematics subject (MATH151 or equivalent) normally in the first year.

  ^ Students interested in a career in Geology are urged to take more than the minimum required 24 credit points of 300-level EESC subjects. A graduate with 30 credit points of 300-level EESC subjects has a more comprehensive Geology degree.

Accreditation & professional recognition

Professional Geologist: select a full range of third-year Geology subjects and complete Honours year to meet professional requirements.

Why choose this course

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills in Australia is becoming a fast-growing area creating new and increased job prospects. Professional, Scientific and Technical Services is projected to increase by 10.2% from 2018 to 2023 reflecting ongoing strength in demand for the services of qualified and highly educated workers. Source: Employment Projections

Working in science requires real-world practical skills and contemporary knowledge. At UOW we're committed to 'inquiry-based learning' that teaches you to constantly seek out knowledge, analyse it and apply it in your chosen profession. We integrate technology into all our learning and teaching to ensure that you graduate equipped to excel in a constantly changing and technologically advanced world.

You will participate in practical classes in our new purpose-built Sciences Teaching Facility or out in the field, ensuring that you have the skills and knowledge to meet the needs of tomorrow's employers. Our courses are taught by professionals who are world-leading researchers so the skills and knowledge you acquire can be applied to real-world challenges today and in the future.

Career opportunities

• Research Officer
• Heritage Officer
• Policy/Project Officer
• Hydrologist
• Tourism and Recreation Planner
• Geospatial Intelligence Officer
• Market Researcher
• Cartographer
• Climatologist
• Ranger
• Environmental Health Officer
• International Aid Officer

Admission Requirements

A range of admission options are available for students of all ages and academic backgrounds. The procedures governing admission are defined in UOW's Admissions Procedures and the UOW College Admissions policy.

For any specific advice or questions regarding an application, please contact the Future Students Team.

Credit for Prior Learning

If you can demonstrate that you have met the learning outcomes for our subjects through prior learning, such as previous tertiary or TAFE qualifications, you may be eligible for credit towards your degree. Where relevant to the UOW degree, specified credit may be given for specific subject(s); where not relevant to the degree, unspecified credit may be awarded.

English Requirements for international students

The following level of English is required to gain admission to this program:

IELTS Academic

• Overall Score: 6.0
• Reading: 6.0
• Writing: 6.0
• Listening: 6.0
• Speaking: 6.0

TOEFL (Internet-based)

• Overall Score: 70
• Reading: 18
• Writing: 18
• Listening: 17
• Speaking: 17

UOW College: English for Tertiary Studies: Credit (weighted average mark of 50 overall and minimum 50 in Academic Reading and Writing)

Other qualifications may also be considered. Full details can be found on our English Language Requirements website.

UOW is young, dynamic, and innovative, and has become a benchmark for Australia’s new generation of universities. The quality of our teaching and research features prominently in national and international rankings, and we’re proud to be among the top one percent of universities in the world.

Harnessing our expertise and strength to create a positive impact in our local and global communities is at the forefront of everything we do and shapes our University’s purpose for the years to come.