Earth Sciences

Earth Science graduates understand the earth's processes, from climate change and natural disasters to the impacts of economic development.

Geology students combine analytical and abstract reasoning and conceptual and critical thinking with scientific methodology and technology to explore the science and structure of the earth. Geology students explore the earth’s history, resources, and processes. They also examine related natural hazards and the sustainable use of Earth’s natural resources and can combine aspects of Geology with a particular physics and mathematical approach to understand large physical phenomena, including weather and land movements such as glaciers, earthquakes, and volcanoes. Other scientific subjects that can complement Geology include Statistics, Marine Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Data Science.

Roles and career pathways

Geology graduates may work as practising geologists for crown research entities, government departments, universities, and private companies involved in environmental, mining, oil, energy, and infrastructure projects. They may start in research assistant or associate roles before progressing to more senior roles. Graduates may also work in related roles such as technical advisers, science policy analysts, data scientists, environmental management consultants, land advisers, geotechnical engineers, or project advisers. Those who complete specialist courses in Geographic Information Systems Science may work as GIS technicians or analysts.

Postgraduate study, such as a Master's degree in Geology, is recommended for many science-related, research, and policy roles where in-depth analysis is important. A PhD is often required for senior, specialised roles.  Some with postgraduate degrees may specialise in their careers as oceanographers, seismologists, and volcanologists, though opportunities in these areas are limited in New Zealand.

Earth Science graduates with strong skills in Maths and Physics can apply for the meteorologist training programme at MetService NZ. This includes an internship component and completing a sponsored Master of Meteorology.

Geology graduates who combine their studies with Geography, Environmental Studies, Ecology, or Anthropology may work as sustainability advisers, resilience advisers, community development officers, procurement advisers, policy advisers, project monitoring and evaluation advisers, research analysts, and programme coordinators.

Students who study Geology with a second teachable subject, and complete a secondary school teaching qualification, can work as secondary school Science teachers. It is recommended that students also include some Biology or Chemistry courses as part of their degree if they intend to teach science. See Teaching and check the Wellington Faculty of Education Teacher Education programme for entry requirements.

Where Earth Science graduates work

Geology and Geophysics graduates work across the private and public sectors with a focus on earth sciences. Recent graduates have worked in organisations such as:

Build relevant skills and experiences

Part-time work and volunteering during study all help to increase your job prospects when you graduate. Crown research institutes may recruit summer interns depending on funding and Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington offers a number of Summer Research Scholarships where students assist a lecturer with a research project. Both are great ways to gain relevant skills and experience. Programmes such as Wellington Plus and Wellington International Leadership Programme (WILP) offer opportunities to gain diverse volunteer and leadership experience. Wellington Plus participants in particular can get involved with sustainability or environmentally focused volunteering through the university or community.

Make career connections

Making connections with individuals and groups during your degree can help you learn more about career and networking opportunities. Victoria University of Wellington Geology Society is a student-run club where Geology students can connect and learn about different networking and career opportunities. The School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences seminar series offers opportunities to learn and connect with staff and students. There are also opportunities to network, learn, and get involved with postgraduate research with the three research centres based within the School: The Institute of Geophysics, Antarctic Research Centre (ARC), and the New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute (CCRI).

Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Wellington Young Professionals offer various events and opportunities for networking. The Alumni as Mentors programme for final-year students also helps enhance your connections and employability while studying.

Graduate career stories

Clarrie Macklin standing by Haupapa Tasman Glacier

Clarrie Macklin

Studying Geophysics equipped Clarrie with the understanding of earth sciences, maths, and physics and the ability to communicate complex and diverse ideas.
Head and shoulders portrait of Aitana Forcén-Vázquez smiling at the camera.

Aitana Forcén-Vázquez

Field work at sea during a Physical Oceanography PhD rewarded Aitana with fresh perspectives on problem solving and critical thinking.
Tim McDougall standing near Castlepoint Lighthouse

Tim McDougall

A decision to study Earth Sciences as a mature student after travel set Tim up for an exciting role as a geotechnical instrumentation specialist.