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Geologists study rocks, minerals, landforms, climates and biota, and the processes that affect them

As one of New Zealand's leading geoscience departments, Otago offers an active postgraduate programme and practical undergraduate foundation. Graduates are in high demand as society shifts to a low-carbon future.

The need for Earth scientists who understand our ancient biota, changing climate, natural hazards and mineral resources continues to increase.

Rewarding careers include environmental protection and sustainability, natural hazard assessment, renewable energy, engineering and construction.

Geology students being taught in the field

Study Geology

Your introduction to planet Earth.

Geology student doing field work on rocks

Postgraduate opportunities

We have an active postgraduate research programme.

Geology student looking at rock sample

Geology careers

Uncover your potential, with a career in Geology.

Geology student doing field work in snow

Our research

Explore our Geology research themes.

Ready to get Geology into your life?

You can start your Otago Geology degree in Semester 2 with GEOL 112 Dynamic Earth: A New Zealand Perspective and complete 100- and 200-level Geology papers in Semester 1 of the following year. It’s never too late to study Geology!

Explore what makes Science at Otago so special

It’s not just our people – the experts in their fields and passionate students – but also the places we teach and learn: Otago Harbour, Fiordland, Stewart Island, Antarctica and the Pacific that mean our students leave here with highly sought-after skills and experiences.

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