Earth Sciences

The demand for Earth Sciences experts is rising as we seek to manage soil, water, minerals, energy, coastal/marine resources, and understand natural hazards like floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, and volcanic eruptions.
earth sciences subject

Why study Earth Sciences?

The University of Waikato is uniquely placed to offer a thorough grounding in all aspects of the Earth Sciences. We are situated close to both North Island coasts, a short drive from the active Taupo Volcanic Zone, at the heart of the richest New Zealand farming region, and have New Zealand's longest river on our doorstep.

We are a leader in teaching and research related to the Earth’s environment, and offer you a learning experience that goes beyond the laboratory and lecture room - and out into the world.

The Earth Sciences major at Waikato consists of four main sub-disciplines: geologysoil sciencehydrology and coastal processes. The first two years concentrate on fundamental knowledge and skills across all subdisciplines. In your final year, you’ll have the option to specialise in a specific area.

Facilities

As an Earth Sciences student at the University of Waikato, you will have access to the University's well-equipped laboratories, and will have the opportunity to examine features in the field and undertake field investigations using a wide range of techniques. You'll be working alongside, and learning from, well-respected researchers, industry professionals and academics.

Build a successful career

As a graduate you will gain the knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of careers. Earth Sciences graduates are spread across New Zealand and around the world, working in careers ranging from Earth resources' exploration to environmental management and planning, and from scientific research to teaching.

Career Opportunities

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

Hamilton, Tauranga

Scholarships and prizes

Broad Memorial Fund

For students who are enrolled full-time or part-time in the thesis year of a masters degree (e.g. MSc, MSc(Research)), MPhil or PhD qualification in Earth Sciences.

Terry Healy Memorial Award

For students who are currently enrolled part- or full-time in a masters or doctoral degree in an Earth Sciences subject and have not previously received the Award. Preference will be given to students involved in marine sciences, but applications will be considered for all areas appropriate to the current research activities of the Earth Sciences subject in the School of Science.

University of Waikato Research Masters Scholarship

For students enrolled, or intending to enrol, in a 500-level thesis of 90-or 120-points as part of their first master's degree. International students must have completed at least 120-points of study at a New Zealand university in order to be eligible for this Scholarship.


Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships

Earth Sciences papers

Contact us

International Enquiries

Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5pm

School of Science

School of Science, The University of Waikato, Gate 8, Hillcrest Road, Hamilton, New Zealand