The Bachelor of Earth and Environmental Science (Geoscience) is an interdisciplinary science degree focused on Earth systems, climate science, environmental monitoring, natural hazards, landforms, geospatial technologies, and sustainability.

The programme helps students understand how Earth processes shape landscapes, ecosystems, water systems, and human environments. Students gain practical scientific and analytical skills used in environmental management, geospatial science, climate adaptation, and resource sustainability.

Why Study Geoscience at Massey University?

Students choose this programme because it offers:

• Strong focus on climate change and environmental sustainability
• Practical fieldwork and environmental monitoring experience
• Exposure to GIS, remote sensing, and Earth observation technologies
• Training in natural hazards and environmental risk management
• Flexible online and distance learning options
• Interdisciplinary Earth and environmental science education
• Opportunities to study geospatial science and environmental data analysis
• Research-informed teaching with New Zealand environmental case studies

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The Geoscience major includes practical and theory-based courses related to Earth systems, environmental science, and geospatial technologies.

Example Courses

Environmental Monitoring and Field Skills

Students learn:

• Environmental data collection
• Monitoring technologies
• Earth systems analysis
• Environmental field techniques

Environmental Solutions

Focuses on:

• Environmental risk management
• Soil and water protection
• Sustainable technologies
• Environmental case studies

Earth’s Critical Resources

Covers:

• Earth materials and minerals
• Resource sustainability
• Geological processes
• Environmental management

Earth Surface Processes and Landforms

Students study:

• Erosion and sediment transport
• Rivers and coastal systems
• Climate change impacts
• Geomorphology

Earth’s Changing Climate

Topics include:

• Climate reconstruction
• Past environmental systems
• Climate adaptation
• Future environmental change

Earth Systems

Students learn:

• Geoscience modelling
• Floods and tsunamis
• Landslides
• Environmental forecasting
• Quantitative geoscience analysis

Remote Sensing and Earth Observation

Focuses on:

• Satellite imagery
• Spatial mapping
• Earth observation systems
• Geospatial image analysis

Ptaiao: Mtauranga and the Environment

Explores:

•  Mori environmental knowledge
• Indigenous environmental management
• Cultural perspectives on sustainability

Topics and Areas of Study

Students may study:

• Geoscience
• Climate Science
• Environmental Monitoring
• Natural Hazards
• GIS and Spatial Analysis
• Remote Sensing
• Earth Observation
• Geomorphology
• Sustainability
• Environmental Risk Management
• Hydrology
• Sediment Transport
• Coastal Systems
• Environmental Modelling
• Resource Management

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Within the Bachelor of Earth and Environmental Science, students may specialise in:

•  Geoscience
• Land and Water Science

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in:

• Environmental Consulting
• Geospatial Science
• GIS and Remote Sensing
• Climate Change Analysis
• Resource Management
• Environmental Monitoring
• Hydrology
• Conservation
• Natural Hazard Assessment
• Sustainability Consulting
• Government Environmental Agencies
• Regional Councils
• Environmental Research
• Mining and Resource Industries
• Environmental Policy

Graduates may also continue into:

•  Honours programmes
• Master’s degrees
• Research careers

Highlights of the Programme

•  Strong sustainability and climate change focus
• Practical fieldwork and laboratory experience
• GIS and remote sensing training
• Flexible online and distance study options
• Interdisciplinary Earth science curriculum
• Indigenous environmental knowledge integration
• Exposure to environmental modelling and forecasting
• Preparation for environmental and geospatial careers

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Students should note:

•  Some advanced courses have prerequisite requirements.
• Certain courses may include compulsory field trips and workshops.
• Practical environmental monitoring activities are integrated into the programme.
• Students must complete one approved major.
• Returning students should review transitional regulations for curriculum updates.

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency documents

Students should also review:

•  Part-time work rights during study
• Post-study work visa eligibility
• Health and character requirements under New Zealand immigration policies