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
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?
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.
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.
Take the first step towards your future in this subject.
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.
One of MATH 120 Mathematics for Scientists MATH 130 Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 1 MATH 140 Fundamentals of Modern Mathematics 2 COMO 101
Modelling and Computation STAT 110 Statistical Methods STAT 115 Introduction to Biostatistics
162 further points must include 18 points at 200-level or above.
Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science
162
Total
360
A minor subject can be included in many of our undergraduate degrees. To earn a minor, you typically must complete a minimum of 90 points in that subject, with at least 18 points at the 300-level.
Your minor can be a subject more commonly taken for a different degree. For example, a BCom majoring in Marketing can include Japanese as a minor subject. To include this subject as a minor in your application, first find a major subject through our Subject Search or Study Match.
You can check what’s required to receive the minor accreditation in the programme details below.
Available as a minor subject for a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Music (MusB), Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA), Bachelor of Theology (BTheol), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Entrepreneurship (BEntr), Bachelor of Health Science (BHealSc), Bachelor of Arts and Commerce (BACom), Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) or Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc) degree
Level
Papers
Points
100-level
EAOS 111 Earth and Ocean Science or GEOL 112 Dynamic Earth: A New Zealand Perspective
18
200-level
See below
300-level
Four other EAOS or GEOL papers, of which three must be 200-level or above and one must be at 300-level.
Note: Students should check the prerequisites for 200- and 300-level papers.
Full Year, 1st Non standard period (11 November 2024 - 8 November 2025), 2nd Non standard period (14 July 2025 - 29 May 2026)
More information
Contact our Schools' Liaison and International teams
Want to connect with a real person and get some advice? Find your Schools' Liaison officer, chat with our International team in New Zealand or your own country, or submit a question through our online form.
