COURSE CURRICULUM

The Earth Science major within the Bachelor of Science (Advanced) at the University of Newcastle provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic processes that shape the Earth and influence natural and human environments. The curriculum begins with compulsory courses such as Earth: Our Dynamic Planet and Earth: Natural Hazards, introducing students to geological processes, plate tectonics, natural disasters, and environmental systems. Students then progress to Earth’s Dynamic Surface, Spatial Science, and Water Resilience: From Climate to Groundwater, developing expertise in geomorphology, geospatial technologies, groundwater systems, and sustainable water resource management. At the intermediate level, students can further their knowledge through courses such as Catchments and Climate, Earth’s Critical Zone, and Weather and Waves, which examine climate systems, soil and landscape processes, and atmospheric and oceanic interactions. Advanced study includes Coastal Environments and Processes, Advanced Spatial Science, and Climate Change and Resource Management, focusing on coastal dynamics, geographic information systems, remote sensing, climate adaptation, and sustainable resource management. Through a combination of fieldwork, laboratory investigations, spatial analysis, and research-based learning, students develop strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. This major prepares graduates for careers in environmental consulting, geoscience, climate science, water resource management, natural resource management, government agencies, and research, while also providing a strong foundation for honours and postgraduate study.