Bachelor of Science (Earth Sciences)

Earth Sciences is the study of the Earth, its composition, structure, processes, and history. Learn how the Earth works and how it has changed over time, including the formation of mountains, the evolution of the atmosphere, and the movements of tectonic plates. Understand the processes that control natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and landslides, as well as the processes responsible for generating many of the natural resources we rely on to sustain our way of life.

The Bachelor of Science (Earth Sciences) at UOW takes advantage of the diverse NSW South Coast environment, which is an ideal location to undertake specialist training in Earth Sciences. This setting provides substantial fieldwork opportunities in addition to the laboratory-based learning you will undertake during the course.


The Bachelor of Science major in Earth Sciences combines a range of skills involving fieldwork, practical experience and research to develop knowledge of our Earth and the processes that have impacted, moulded and continue to influence the planet on which we live.

This degree will provide numerous potential career pathways in geohazard mitigation, environmental remediation (e.g., waste management, water), geotechnical engineering, government, geologists employed in the minerals and energy industries, and undertaking cutting-edge research in universities.

In your first year, you will study a range of disciplines to build a solid foundation in scientific knowledge and practice. The common first-year subjects include chemistry, biology, geology, earth and environmental sciences, and global challenges in science. You then focus on Earth Sciences subjects from the second year onward.

You will study how to apply techniques (including geological and spatial mapping), and the identification of minerals, fossils and rocks to understand the history and structure of the Earth, and the long-term evolution of Earth’s climate. This will equip you with the knowledge of current issues in Earth Science and enable you to propose strategies and solutions for the future stewardship of the planet on which we live.

On completion, high-performing students considering further study or a career in research should consider the Bachelor of Science Honours program. This one-year degree offers students a pathway to expand their knowledge in Earth Sciences and achieve their research aspirations.

Applicants need to have achieved the required score in a qualification equivalent to the completion of 13 years of schooling in Australia.
In order to succeed in your chosen course, it is assumed you have completed relevant subjects in your senior high school studies or other relevant qualifications. This is particularly important for degrees which have a strong basis in Mathematics or Science.

English Requirements

IELTS Academic Overall Score of 6.0, reading 6.0, writing 6.0, listening 6.0, speaking 6.0; TOEFL (Internet-based) score of 70, reading 18, writing 18, listening 17, speaking 17; PTE Academic overall score of 54 (Reading and Writing 54, Speaking and Listening 47); C1 Advanced Cambridge or C2 Proficiency Cambridge: 169.