Major overview
Earth scientists are essential to the safe management of the environment, and to the discovery and sustainable extraction of mineral and energy resources. They use sophisticated instruments to determine the properties of Earth and planetary materials, and to help understand the evolution of the Earth and the controls and direction of its climate and biosphere.
In this course, you’ll gain the knowledge and the skill sets for careers in a range of industries involved with Earth materials and planetary systems.
This major is a Bachelor of Advanced Science honours course for high-performing science students. It gives you a flexible approach to learning, allowing you to explore the field of Earth sciences through opportunities for immersive research experiences, industry placement and team-based projects.
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Earth scientist
- Environmental geoscientist
- Geochemist
- Hydrogeologist
- Geologist
- Geotechnical engineer
- Geotechnician
Industries
- Mineral exploration and mining
- Environmental consultancy
- Climate science
- Geotechnical services
- Geological surveys
Why study at Curtin?
Advanced science expertise
Curtin's Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) courses are designed for high-performing science students, with opportunities for immersive research experiences, industry placement and team-based projects.
World-ranked global university
Curtin ranks in the top 1% of universities in the world, based on our ARWU ranking. (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2025)
Western Australia's best in Earth Sciences
Curtin ranks first in Western Australia and in the global top 100 for Earth Sciences. (Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)
Major structure
What you’ll learn
In this course, you will gain a comprehensive body of knowledge in Earth sciences, as well as the skillsets for careers in the diversity of industries involved with Earth materials and planetary systems.
A significant part of your learning will be in Curtin’s Earth sciences research facilities – which are among the best-equipped in Australia. And, in your final-year capstone experience, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue Earth and planetary science projects ranging from pure research through to translational (entrepreneurial) science.
How this course will make you industry ready
You'll have opportunities for immersive research experiences, industry placement and team-based projects. Your capstone experience offers the opportunity to pursue an earth and planetary science research project.Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this degree either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.