University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme provides core training across the fundamental subdisciplines of geology and applied earth sciences. Typical topics include mineralogy and petrology, structural geology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, palaeontology, geochemistry, and geophysics. Practical skills are developed through mapping, hand‑specimen and thin‑section analysis, analytical laboratory techniques, GIS and remote sensing, and geotechnical testing.

Fieldwork is a significant component: students undertake multi‑day regional field trips to study outcrops, sequence relationships and structural features in situ, and learn standard surveying and mapping methods. You will also gain experience with modern datasets and software used in exploration and environmental assessment, and there are opportunities to take elective subjects in related areas such as hydrogeology, petroleum geology, environmental science and data analytics.

The degree is delivered as a Bachelor of Science with a geology major or specialisation and typically leads into an honours year or postgraduate study for those interested in advanced research or technical leadership roles.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on completion of secondary school qualifications with a competitive selection rank (e.g. ATAR or equivalent). Strong preparation in mathematics and science is recommended—subjects such as chemistry, physics and advanced mathematics are particularly relevant. International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic achievement and meet English language requirements.

Applicants without recent school study may be considered through alternative pathways, including recognised tertiary preparation programs or work and life experience. Specific entry prerequisites and pathways can be confirmed with the university’s admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers across natural resources, environment and infrastructure sectors. Typical roles include exploration geologist, mine geologist, resource analyst, geotechnical or engineering geologist, hydrogeologist and environmental consultant. Employers include mining and petroleum companies, environmental and consulting firms, government geological surveys, engineering consultancies and research institutions.

Skills developed in the degree—field mapping, sample analysis, data interpretation, GIS and remote sensing—are also valued in related areas such as land‑use planning, natural hazard assessment, museum curation and science communication. Completing an honours year or postgraduate training opens further opportunities in research, specialised technical roles and academia.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers earth‑science teaching informed by active research groups and strong links to South Australia’s mining and energy sector. Students benefit from hands‑on laboratory facilities, modern analytical equipment and structured field programs that make use of local geology, including access to prominent field areas for practical mapping and logging exercises.

The university maintains partnerships with industry and government agencies, which support work placements, project collaborations and employment pathways. Smaller class sizes in core geology subjects mean more contact time with academic staff, while research centres provide options for students pursuing honours or postgraduate research in areas such as ore deposit studies, basin analysis and geochronology.