Master of Earth and Environmental Sciences

Course summary

The Master of Earth and Environmental Sciences is for students who wish to extend their knowledge and diversify their skill base within a range of sub-disciplines of the Earth and Environmental Sciences, and in particular, Environmental Science, Geology and Physical Geography.

What you will study

This degree will serve as a refresher programme for graduates wishing to explore specific combinations of topics in greater detail; a programme for professionals already practising aspects of Earth and Environmental Sciences seeking additional analytical skills, and as a stepping stone for graduates intending to proceed to a higher degree by research, upon completion of the programme.

With the appropriate qualifications and laboratory skills, you can be awarded advanced standing for these preparatory subjects.

This degree

The degree emphasises the interconnectedness of the many sub-disciplines within the Earth and Environmental Sciences where content will be explored through the common core first-year subjects.

The Master of Earth and Environmental Sciences is designed through the lens of global perspectives in science where you will use drones and artificial intelligence technology.

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:

Exercise critical thinking and judgement in relation to concepts, perspectives and recent developments in the Earth and its environment including local, national, global, Indigenous and evolutionary perspectives by generating and evaluating complex ideas and solutions which incorporate spatial perspectives. Consolidate and synthesise knowledge of research principles and methods pertinent to the earth and its environment. Propose one or more solutions for existing and/or new real-world situations in professional practice within the context of earth and environmental sciences. Investigate, analyse and synthesise information, problems and theories associated with disciplines within the earth and environmental sciences including spatial contexts. Design, apply, generate and evaluate hypotheses and theories, methodologies and concepts for professional practice or scholarship in applied Earth and Environmental Sciences. Plan, execute and communicate the results of substantial research-based initiatives in a reflective and ethical way for academic and professional practice. Exercise critical thinking, problem solving and reflection. Communicate knowledge, theories and methods pertaining to the Earth and Environmental Sciences to diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and communication skills.

Course Structure

To qualify for an award of the degree, the Master of Earth and Environmental Sciences, a candidate must successfully complete at least 96 credit points, as outlined below.

Year 1

Autumn

Spring

To progress to Year 2 students must achieve a WAM ≥ 70% AND ≥ 70% in the in discipline-based subjects (EESC). If students have a WAM <70% and/or <70% in discipline-based subjects they must seek advice from the Head of Students regarding their progression into year 2.

Year 2

Students who commenced their studies in the Spring session, please see your Academic Programme Director (APD) for academic advice.

Autumn

Spring

For students with a WAM of 75% or above:

For students with a WAM of 60%-74%:

For students with a WAM less than 60%, select 24 credit points from the following list of Management subjects:

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

The principal areas of research strength within Earth & Environmental Sciences include long-term environmental changes in Earth surface environments; coastal and marine environmental ecology, geology and geochemistry; fluvial geomorphology; Quaternary geochronology; spatial analysis using geographic information systems and remote sensing; modern and ancient human-landscape interactions, and the pre-history of Australia.

With its high level of research infrastructure, we have a long-standing record of research excellence, funded from National Competitive Grants Schemes and other funding sources, and represents an outstanding setting to undertake a Masters-level degree.

Admission

A range of admission options is 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.

English Requirements for international students

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

IELTS Academic

• Overall Score: 6.5
• Reading: 6.0
• Writing: 6.0
• Listening: 6.0
• Speaking: 6.0

TOEFL (Internet-based)

• Overall Score: 86
• Reading: 18
• Writing: 18
• Listening: 17
• Speaking: 17

UOW College: English for Tertiary Studies: Credit (weighted average mark of 65 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.