Postgraduate Geology –
Give your career a boost and gain advanced knowledge and skills with postgraduate study in geology.
Take your study of the physical processes and history of the Earth even further with the School of Geography, Environment, and Earth Sciences. Be part of a Geology programme that is internationally respected for its contributions to the study of volcanology and tectonics and to climate change in New Zealand and Antarctica.
A good understanding of geological processes is essential for working with the extraction and preservation of the Earth’s natural resources, the evaluation of natural hazards and for environmental and resource planning and monitoring.
Using knowledge from physics, chemistry, mathematics and the biological sciences, as well as the Earth sciences, you'll develop skills in independent research, including field studies, modern surveying techniques and the design and use of computer programs and databases.
You'll also gain skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), computer drafting, graphical presentation and desktop publishing, and you'll improve your public speaking.
Available qualifications
Globally ranked
This programme is ranked in the top 150 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
A natural laboratory on your doorstep
Nowhere on Earth are active geological processes more obvious and accessible than in New Zealand. This makes Wellington a great place to study earth movements, faulting, earthquakes, landscape development and many other active geological processes.
The city is located in a tectonically active landscape where the southern tip of the North Island enters Cook Strait. It is only a few hours’ drive from the North Island’s active volcanoes, and a scenic ferry ride away from the Marlborough Sounds and the South Island.
Research topics
Earth Sciences at Victoria University of Wellington is ranked first in New Zealand for research quality, and is ranked among the top 150 of the world's several thousand universities.
You can research phenomena such as the Earth's internal structure, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, geochemical cycles, the extinction of the dinosaurs, climate and sea level change, and landscape evolution. Choose a research topic that suits your interests and career goals, and work with and learn from experts in the field.
You'll need to plan your course of study with the postgraduate coordinator before you enrol.
Careers
The interdisciplinary nature of geology means that you'll have great career opportunities. You might work in mineral and petroleum exploration, resource management, environmental management and protection, or do advanced research at a Crown research institute or university.
Community
Postgraduate study at Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, university staff and future colleagues. You'll have opportunities to attend events, seminars, workshops and social functions.
The Postgraduate Students' Association can also give you information on study at the University and provides a voice for you on campus.
Live and study in Wellington—the hub of earth science research in New Zealand. Home to Crown research institutes GNS Science and NIWA, and Te Papa Tongarewa, our national museum, you'll have unique access to scientists involved in ongoing research programmes in these highly regarded institutions.
Scholarships
You can look for scholarships based on your level of study, subject area and background.