Course overview
In this course, you will gain a thorough grounding in theoretical geology – with emphasis on mineral, energy and groundwater resources and their environmental management – as well as the sustainable supply of resources for the decarbonising industry.
You’ll learn about Earth’s fascinating geological processes that affect the environment, climate and resources.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Geologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Engineering geologist
- Environmental geoscientist
- Geochemist
Industries
- Environmental geology
- Carbon and hydrogen storage
- Groundwater extraction
- Resources exploration
- Mining
- Natural hazards and risk analysis
- Research and development
Professional accreditation and recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, the Australian Institute of Geoscientists and/or the Geological Society of Australia.
Hear from our students
"I've always enjoyed working in mining and wanted to understand how different ore bodies work. What I like most about my course is learning about geology and the Earth’s history. The work experience I’ve completed has been very useful, giving me hands-on experience and helping me to better understand my course work. After I graduate I'd like to work as an underground mine geologist and progress to a senior industry role."
Rikki-Jayne
Bachelor of Applied Geology
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You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Other study options
Expand your academic journey or continue your academic journey with these study options.
Double degrees
You can extend your expertise and career opportunities by studying Applied Geology as a double degree with Environmental Biology or Finance.
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Course structure
In your first year, you’ll gain a foundation in geology, chemistry, maths, scientific communication and computer skills.
Your second year focuses on the theoretical, laboratory and field skills required to understand geological processes.
After two years of grounding in the fundamentals of geology, your final year will focus on application in the workplace.
In your final year, you'll choose to study either the Applied Geology stream at Curtin Perth or the Mining Geology stream at Curtin Kalgoorlie.
You can also tailor your degree with units that emphasise specific applied areas of geoscience.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Customise your degree
You can choose to study either the Applied Geology stream at Curtin Perth or the Mining Geology stream at Curtin Kalgoorlie.
Applied Geology
This stream covers the breadth of Earth history investigation and applied geosciences. Topics include environmental geosciences, groundwater resources, and sustainable management of mineral and energy exploration and extraction.
Mining Geology
This stream combines studies of resource and field geology with mining systems, resource estimation and process mineralogy. The final year of study is undertaken at Curtin Kalgoorlie.
Entry requirements
To study this course, you must meet the entry criteria:
- course ATAR, or equivalent, demonstrated via an accepted entry pathway
- any course-specific requirements
- English language requirement.
Guaranteed entry
If you achieve the guaranteed ATAR/selection rank for this course and meet all other entry requirements, you’re guaranteed a place in this course.
Entry pathways
There are different ways to meet our academic entry requirements. Choose the option that best suits the highest level of education that you’ve achieved.
Curious how students entered this course? See the entry pathways other students have taken.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive study credit or support based on your previous experience or personal circumstances.
Get credit towards your degree
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
Special consideration
If your studies were affected by circumstances beyond your control, you may be eligible for special consideration when applying to Curtin. This process is available to new applicants only and allows your application to be assessed in light of those circumstances.
Additional information
Notes about this course
Make sure you check the course notes for any other important information.
Fees
2025 Domestic indicative fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
*The indicative first-year fee is based on a standard full-time study load of 200 credit points.
This fee is a guide only. Your total fee may vary depending on the units you choose, your study load or if your course includes additional requirements. For more information on fees, see other fees and charges.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Choose your application pathway
I’m in year 12 or applying for Medicine
If you’re in year 12 or recently finished high school, you’ll need to apply through TISC.
You’ll apply through TISC no matter what you studied in high school, whether that was:
- ATAR
- General subjects
- Certificate IV
- or completing UniReady in Schools program.
TISC has different application dates to Curtin. Visit the TISC website for all important dates, including application deadlines.
I have finished high school
If you’re not a current year 12 student or recent graduate, you’re considered a non school leaver and you’ll apply directly to Curtin.
The only exception is Medicine, which must be applied for through TISC.
You’ll apply directly to Curtin if you are:
- a high school graduate who finished school last year or earlier
- transferring from another university
- returning to study or using your professional experience to qualify
- progressing from a VET or TAFE qualification or bridging program
- a current Curtin student changing courses or campuses.
Application deadlines can vary by course. Make sure to check application deadlines before you apply.
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