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Study Geology at Otago

Without understanding Earth’s past and present, you can’t begin to plan for Earth’s future.

Many of the world’s critical future challenges lie in the realm of geology: climate change, water quality, sustainability and resources, natural hazards, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

Geology – the study of the Earth and planets – is more relevant today than ever before. If you are passionate about making a difference in an ever- changing society and environment, and want to have adventures that will last a lifetime, geology is for you.

Why study Geology?

Geology provides the foundations to understand the future of society: from our food and water, buildings and clothing, through to the very land on which we stand. If you are motivated by global challenges such as climate change, sustainability, natural hazards, energy and infrastructure, studying Geology will give you the skill-set required to make a difference in the world.

The solutions to today's great challenges can be solved by studying the world around us. Geologists explore the great outdoors to learn how Earth formed and is continuously changing.

Be part of a dynamic and friendly department that commits to excellence in teaching and research and welcomes you as part of the community.

Career opportunities

A degree in Geology unlocks a wealth of possibilities. The data-handling, problem- solving, and teamwork skills that you learn in Geology provide an opportunity to contribute to:

  • Earth processes and history
  • Earth resources
  • planetary and Space Sciences
  • palaeontology and the history of life
  • oceanography and Antarctic research
  • natural hazard assessment
  • geospatial analysis
  • environmental protection and sustainability
  • renewable energy
  • teaching and mentoring
  • science policy and advocacy

Exploring Earth’s past and future

Master’s student Tilly shares her passion for geology at Otago, while Dr Riesselman explains how fieldwork, expert teaching, and research prepare students to tackle real-world environmental challenges.

Read transcript

Tayla Hill:

Kia ora everyone. My name is Tilly, and I’m a first-year master’s student studying geology here at Otago.

Growing up in Taranaki, I had an appreciation for the natural environment, so geology only felt right for me. Here at Otago, we have an active and evolving landscape. Our courses are constantly being updated with new and recent information, and we get to experience new technology firsthand. Our lecturers are world-class leaders in their field, and every day I feel so lucky and inspired to be around the people in the geology department.

Dr Christina Riesselman:

As a geology student at Otago, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge to take on some of New Zealand’s biggest challenges. You’ll take papers with international experts in earthquake science and volcanoes, learning about how the dynamic tectonic setting of New Zealand shapes our world and beyond.

Our earth scientists are leading the way in understanding how climate has changed in the past, providing crucial information about the way the climate system works that will help us plan for the future. Our graduates leave with knowledge of how natural resources are distributed in the earth, including the rare materials that will be essential in our development of green technologies—necessary to move us toward New Zealand’s ambitious goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Importantly, earth science at Otago gets you out into our majestic natural laboratory. The field is a really important part of our programme here, and earth science is an observational science, so we make sure you get access to it from day one. It’s a key part of your entire degree at Otago, and we want to make sure that you develop the skills you need to apply your observational knowledge to your future professions.

The faculty in the geology department at Otago are international experts working all over the world, from Tibet to Antarctica, to the Southern Alps, to the Otago Harbour—right here in our backyard. We take you from the origin of Earth through to what’s happening on the planet today, and we’d love to bring you along for the journey.

What will I learn?

A Geology degree will open your eyes to the dynamic processes that occur on Earth and other planets.

You will learn how to read and interpret the history of Earth and its lifeforms by studying rocks, minerals, magma, fossils, ice and water.

You will learn how Earth's interior interacts with the oceans and atmosphere to regulate global change, and you will become a master of critical observation and interpretation at molecular to plate tectonic scales.

How will I learn?

Geology is a hands-on science. Our world-renowned fieldwork and laboratory programmes give you frequent opportunities to work closely with staff, and to put theory into practice. We support varied teaching and learning styles. Since all our staff are active researchers, you will learn about cutting-edge science. Practical work involves both individual projects and small-group studies.

Can I combine my Geology degree with other subjects?

Yes! Geology is a very broad discipline and you can easily combine it with other interests – Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Business, Computing, Ecology, Geography, Law, Marine Science, Mathematics, Physics, Surveying and Zoology. Contact our friendly course advisers for help or information.

What about further study?

We offer postgraduate opportunities that are tailored to your interests at honours, master's and PhD level.

Our graduates leave with a wide range of technical and generic skills that make them competitive for employment and advanced study at institutions around the world.

You may also be interested in

Recommended background

Most of all you need enthusiasm, motivation and curiosity. First-year papers provide a broad foundation and assume no previous study of Geology. Fundamental sciences are an integral part of Geology, and it will be beneficial if you have some background in sciences subjects from secondary school.

Choose a study option

Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.

Undergraduate qualifications

For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.

Note: this subject can also be studied as a minor.

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Further study opportunities

Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.

Programme details

Compare programmes for this subject as a major and minor (where available).

Papers

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More information

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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.

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