Earth Sciences

An understanding of earth and ocean sciences is vital if we are to sustainably manage Earth’s energy, water, mineral, soil and coastal resources. The earth sciences are also the key to predicting and managing natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, tsunami, landslides and volcanic eruptions.  

Earth Sciences at Waikato includes the study of coastal and marine science, climate change, soil science, hydrology, volcanology, sedimentary geology and engineering geology. Graduates in Earth Sciences go on to a diverse range of careers in environmental and resource management as well as research.

Degrees

• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Science (Technology)

Earth Sciences can also be taken as a second major or supporting subject within most degrees.

School subjects required

There are no specific subjects you need to study at secondary school to study Earth Sciences at Waikato.

Other subjects that may interest you

Geography, Biological Sciences, Environmental Planning, Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Law.

Career Opportunities

• Coastal Resource Manager
• Engineering Geologist  
• Environmental Consultant  
• Geologist  
• Hydrologist
• Soil Conservator  
• Volcanologist  
• Water Resource Manager  

Potential Employers

• Crown Research Institutes
• Energy Companies
• Environmental Consulting
• Government Departments Firms
• Ministry for the Environment
• Regional and District Councils

Papers

ENVS101 Environmental Science
A study of the utilisation and exploitation of natural resources and the effects of human activities on biological, chemical and physical processes that form resources and control ecosystems.

ERTH103 Discovering Planet Earth
This paper explores the Earth’s interior and its dynamic interaction with the crust, including: the major rocks and minerals and their economic importance; interpreting the rock record and geologic maps; the geological time scale and fossils; rock deformation; plate tectonics; volcanism; earthquakes; and the New Zealand geological environment. A one-day field trip introduces students to aspects of earth sciences, particularly the volcanic geology of the Rotorua region.

ERTH104 Earth and Ocean Environments
This paper explores the processes operating in the surface and ocean environments on Earth, and the resulting deposits and landforms, including oceanography, coastal hazards and climate change, the hydrological cycle, rivers and groundwater, glaciers, weathering, erosion and mass movement, and soil formation. A one-day field trip introduces students to the physical environment of the Waikato-Raglan district.

200 Level and Beyond
200 and 300 level papers specialise in a full range of earth and ocean sciences including weather and climate, volcanology, hydrology and soil science, oceanography and environmental monitoring.