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Think earth science. Think QUT.
If you like all the sciences, you like to be outdoors and you like to understand how the world works, then earth science at QUT is the degree for you.
Unfolding the history of our planet
Tune in to the Pale Blue Dot podcast to hear hosts Dr Luke Nothdurft and Dr David Flannery discuss some of the biggest questions and mysteries of our planet with leading scientific experts from QUT and beyond. This podcast series is part of the online content for the Evolving Earth unit in the Earth Science major.
Get out in the field
Our earth science students get out and about on a number of field trips throughout their studies, and experience geosciences first hand. They collect and analyse data, and report back in an industry format.
Real-world learning experiences
Our environmental science degrees are packed with field trips and real-world learning experiences. Earth science units take you to places around Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia to learn about Earth processes that produce the landscapes we now live in, and the history of our ancient continent.
Find your tribe
'One of the really great things that I found was the Natural Resources Society. When I first came to uni, I didn’t know anybody at all, and I mustered up the courage in my first semester to go along to the NRS welcome barbecue. I found it to be just a really warm and welcoming community, of everybody from first year through to postgraduate - and just that real sense of community that it fostered, I found really, really valuable.'
Our search for ancient life on Mars
Dr David Flannery explains QUT’s involvements in NASA Mars Rover operations, including the development of critical key software packages.
Think earth science. Think QUT.
If you like all the sciences, you like to be outdoors and you like to understand how the world works, then earth science at QUT is the degree for you.
Unfolding the history of our planet
Tune in to the Pale Blue Dot podcast to hear hosts Dr Luke Nothdurft and Dr David Flannery discuss some of the biggest questions and mysteries of our planet with leading scientific experts from QUT and beyond. This podcast series is part of the online content for the Evolving Earth unit in the Earth Science major.
Get out in the field
Our earth science students get out and about on a number of field trips throughout their studies, and experience geosciences first hand. They collect and analyse data, and report back in an industry format.
Real-world learning experiences
Our environmental science degrees are packed with field trips and real-world learning experiences. Earth science units take you to places around Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia to learn about Earth processes that produce the landscapes we now live in, and the history of our ancient continent.
Find your tribe
'One of the really great things that I found was the Natural Resources Society. When I first came to uni, I didn’t know anybody at all, and I mustered up the courage in my first semester to go along to the NRS welcome barbecue. I found it to be just a really warm and welcoming community, of everybody from first year through to postgraduate - and just that real sense of community that it fostered, I found really, really valuable.'
Our search for ancient life on Mars
Dr David Flannery explains QUT’s involvements in NASA Mars Rover operations, including the development of critical key software packages.
Highlights
- Specialise in identifying and analysing earth materials, environments and geological processes relevant to industry.
- Play a key role in the search for fuels and minerals, solutions for climate change or marine and freshwater environments.
- Gain hands-on, practical skills and field experience using real-world examples and materials.
- Prepare for a range of careers within the resource or the environmental sector, from field geologist to research scientist, environmental scientist, or hydrologist.
- Work in environmental consulting or research, tackling geotechnical, groundwater contamination, natural hazards or climate change issues.
- Study our new Climate Science minor to develop an in-depth understanding of climate change, alternative energy technologies, Earth's natural global change, marine environments, cloud formation, and much more.
Highlights
- Specialise in identifying and analysing earth materials, environments and geological processes relevant to industry.
- Play a key role in the search for fuels and minerals, solutions for climate change or marine and freshwater environments.
- Gain hands-on, practical skills and field experience using real-world examples and materials.
- Prepare for a range of careers within the resource or the environmental sector, from field geologist to research scientist, environmental scientist, or hydrologist.
- Work in environmental consulting or research, tackling geotechnical, groundwater contamination, natural hazards or climate change issues.
- Study our new Climate Science minor to develop an in-depth understanding of climate change, alternative energy technologies, Earth's natural global change, marine environments, cloud formation, and much more.
Why choose this course?
If you enjoy working outdoors and are interested in understanding how the world works, then you will find earth science a rewarding area of study. Blending current research issues and problem solving with theory and industry-related, hands-on practicals, the earth science major provides you with a fundamental background to pursue a career in either the resource or the environmental sector.
Explore this course
The Earth is an amazing place and for an earth scientist, it offers a unique natural laboratory that covers space and time. Earth science is a multidisciplinary science that applies chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics tools to understand earth processes, decipher its past and predict its future. Earth scientists work to monitor changes in the Earth’s environment and suggest solutions to problems. They study natural hazards to prevent loss of life and reduce property damage. Earth scientists play key roles in the search for fuels and minerals. Climate change, earthquakes and geothermal energy are just a few of the issues that require knowledge of earth science.
Earth science (also known as geoscience) blends the traditional fields of geology, physical geography and oceanography/ hydrology. Geology describes the rocky parts of the Earth’s crust (or lithosphere) and its development. Physical geography, which studies the Earth’s surface, includes geomorphology, soil science and biogeoscience. The marine and freshwater parts of the Earth define the fields of oceanography and hydrology.
Careers and outcomes
There is currently a shortage of earth scientists in Australia and employment rates are high and salaries great. Earth scientists are in high demand in the energy sector (oil, gas, coal, geothermal) and exploration and mining industries. Many earth scientists find employment in environmental consulting companies tackling geotechnical, groundwater contamination, natural hazards or climate change issues. Earth scientists may work for government agencies such as CSIRO and Geoscience Australia doing applied research, or for state or local governments.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership in a number of professional societies, such as the Geological Society of Australia, Australian Institute of Geologists and other overseas professional societies.
Other study options
Possible careers
- Exploration Geologist
- Geophysicist
- Geoscientist
- Government Officer
- Hydrogeologist
- Laboratory Assistant
- Mapping Scientist
- Marine Scientist
- Mine Geologist
- Natural Resource Scientist
- Project Manager
During your first year of study you’ll get to sample a range of core science disciplines, allowing you to decide on your major later.
Faculty core units
These five units give you an introduction to the principles of science. The inquiry based experimental science units will give you the opportunity to learn by enquiry and become familiar with the methods of scientific inquiry.
From your very first semester, you will collaborate with your peers and teaching staff in QUT’s exciting new learning environments. You will explore real-world problems from multiple scientific perspectives and learn the tools of the trade. Depending on your choices, you may find yourself out in the field, working in the laboratory or learning about the impact of scientific discovery on people, policy, industry and the planet.
Working with data you have collected, you’ll study how to apply fundamental methods of scientific practice, perform scientific analysis, and learn the tools to present your findings. You’ll have the opportunity to explore and discover the range of career and professional outcomes available to you, so you can gain the most from your unit selection and the flexibility the Bachelor of Science has to offer.
Your major
Your major is your main area of study for what you aspire to become professionally. You will receive in-depth knowledge and expertise within your chosen scientific discipline, preparing you for entry into the workforce or further study. Your primary major comprises 11 units.
Complementary study areas
This is where you make the degree your own, tailoring your studies to further match your individual career goals with a wide range of complementary study options available. You’ll have the opportunity to develop sought-after professional skills, deepen your understanding of your major discipline, pursue an interest from across the university, or broaden your scientific understanding. You can even work with industry or study overseas to gain credit towards your degree.
You can choose: a second major (eight units); or a minor.
Second major (eight units)
Choose a second area of study to complement your major, and develop a significant depth of knowledge and skills in two discipline areas. Experience another field, learn another academic methodology and experience interdisciplinary networking.
Choose a second science discipline (biological sciences, chemistry, environmental science or physics), or explore different perspectives which might include:
- computational and simulation science
- innovation and entrepreneurship
- science communication, or
- policy and governance.
Minor (four units)
You might prefer to expand the breadth and depth of your studies by adding to your chosen science major with two minors.
- Selection rank
- 70.00
These thresholds are the lowest adjusted scores to which QUT made an offer in Semester 1, 2022.
Don't have a selection rank?
- Course code
- ST01
- QTAC code
- 418011
- CRICOS code
- 077696D
-
- Gardens Point
-
- Gardens Point
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time
- 3 years full-time
- February and July
- February and July
- Commencing studies in 2022: this program is available for on-campus studies only.
Assumed knowledge
Before you start this course, we assume you have sound knowledge of the subject/s listed below. If you don't have the subject knowledge, you can still apply for the course but we strongly encourage you to undertake bridging studies to gain the knowledge:
- English, or Literature, or English and Literature Extension, or English as an Additional Language (Units 3 & 4, C)
- Mathematical Methods, or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C)
Year 12 early offer scheme
If you’re a current Queensland Year 12 student, you may be eligible to receive an offer for this course on the last day of Queensland Year 12, before receiving your ATAR or selection rank.
Helping you to get into your course
If you don't think your ATAR or selection rank is high enough to get into this course, you can guarantee your entry with guaranteed advanced standing by upgrading through one the following programs which you can select as one of your QTAC preferences:
Dual TAFE-Qld Brisbane/QUT award
If you enrol in a QTAC offer in the following dual TAFE-Qld Brisbane/QUT award you will automatically receive a QUT conditional offer in June after your enrolment at TAFE-Qld Brisbane is confirmed.
Upon completion of the TAFE-Qld diploma you will be able to enrol at QUT. You will also automatically receive half a year (48 credit points) credit transfer and be able to complete the degree in 2.5 years as a full-time student (or equivalent part-time). More details will be provided in your QUT conditional offer letter.
Offer guarantee
If you achieve an ATAR or selection rank of 75.00 or higher (including any adjustments) and satisfy all other admission requirements, you are guaranteed an offer for this course.
Advanced standing
If you have prior studies or work experience, you may be eligible for advanced standing (credit). You can apply for advanced standing once you've been accepted to QUT. If you're in your first semester of study, you must apply for advanced standing within 10 days of receiving your offer.
Deferment
You can defer your offer and postpone the start of your course for one year.
More about deferring your offer
Adjustments to your ATAR/selection rank
Any adjustments you receive to your ATAR or selection rank will be applied to this course.
Find out if you’re eligible for an adjustment to your ATAR or selection rank
Offers we made to school leavers in Semester 1, 2021
The figures listed in the tables below reflect the offers that were made to recent ATAR students. The entry thresholds box at the top of this page shows the lowest adjusted ATAR/selection rank required to receive an offer for all applicants for the most recent January QTAC offer round.
| Excluding adjustments | Including adjustments | |
|---|---|---|
| Highest ATAR/selection rank to receive an offer |
Selection rank
97.30
|
Selection rank
99.95
|
| Median ATAR/selection rank to receive an offer |
Selection rank
80.25
|
Selection rank
81.45
|
| Lowest ATAR/selection rank to receive an offer |
Selection rank
61.15
|
Selection rank
70.10
|
You can find out more about your fellow students’ backgrounds with this course’s student profile.
Other admission options
If you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, you may be eligible for admission through our Centralised Assessment Selection Process (CASP).
Minimum academic requirements
I completed my studies outside of Australia
Select the country where you completed your studies to see a guide to the grades you need to apply for this course.
If your country or qualification is not listed, you can still apply for this course and we will assess your eligibility.
Subject prerequisites
- Mathematical Methods, or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C)
You must have achieved this study at a level comparable to Australian Year 12 or in recognised post-secondary studies.
I completed secondary school in Australia
Assumed knowledge
Before you start this course we assume you have sound knowledge in these areas:
- Mathematical Methods, or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C)
- ATAR/selection rank
- 70.00
Offer guarantee
If you completed secondary school in Australia and achieve an ATAR/selection rank of 75.00 or higher (including any adjustments) and satisfy all other admission requirements, you are guaranteed an offer for this course.
Applications in 2022
In response to COVID-19, QUT has reviewed the availability of courses to be delivered offshore for students studying in 2022.
You must be onshore in Australia to study this course and cannot commence online.
If the Australian Government makes any changes to the international border closure, QUT will communicate directly with students who have an offer and may be eligible to commence earlier than 2023.
Minimum English language requirements
Select the country where you completed your studies to see a guide on meeting QUT’s English language requirements.
Your scores and prior qualifications in English-speaking countries are considered. Approved English-speaking countries are Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, United States of America and Wales.
If your country or qualification is not listed, you can still apply for this course and we will assess your eligibility.
We accept English language proficiency scores from the following tests.
| English Test | Overall | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Pearson PTE (Academic)
Commencing in 2022: The test validity has been extended from two to three years for all intakes in 2022. Commencing in 2023: Test must be taken no more than 2 years prior to the QUT course commencement date. |
58 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
|
Cambridge English Score
Test must be taken no more than 2 years prior to the QUT course commencement. You must provide your Candidate ID and Candidate Secret Number, these are printed on your Cambridge English Confirmation of Entry. |
176 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 |
|
IELTS Academic
Commencing in 2022: The test validity has been extended from two to three years for all intakes in 2022. Commencing in 2023: Test must be taken no more than 2 years prior to the QUT course commencement date. |
6.5 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
|
TOEFL iBT
Commencing in 2022: The test validity has been extended from two to three years for all intakes in 2022. Commencing in 2023: Test must be taken no more than 2 years prior to the QUT course commencement date. |
79 | 16 | 16 | 21 | 18 |
Don't have the English language score you need? We can help!
We offer English language programs to improve your English and help you gain entry to this course.
When you apply for this course, we will recommend which English course you should enrol in.
Your actual fees may vary depending on which units you choose. We review fees annually, and they may be subject to increases.
2022 fees
2022: CSP $8,000 per year full-time (96 credit points)
2022 fees
2022: $39,100 per year full-time (96 credit points)
Student services and amenities fees
You may need to pay student services and amenities (SA) fees as part of your course costs.
Find out more about undergraduate course fees
HECS-HELP: loans to help you pay for your course fees
You may not have to pay anything upfront if you're eligible for a HECS-HELP loan.
You can apply for scholarships to help you with study and living costs.
QUT Excellence Scholarship (Academic)
QUT's premier offering for students with outstanding academic achievement.
- Scholarship eligibility
- Academic performance
Oodgeroo Noonuccal Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarship
- Scholarship eligibility
- Indigenous Australian
QUT STEM Scholars Academic Scholarship
- Scholarship eligibility
- Academic performance; From regional, rural or remote areas