A specialisation is a focused collection of courses within a programme that allows you to gain deep, targeted knowledge in a specific sub-field. Normally these courses make up more than 50 percent of a qualification, some of which lead to registration within a certain field. They may be interdisciplinary, professionally oriented, or designed to meet accreditation requirements. Specialisations often restrict elective choice in favour of a clearly defined study plan.

Completed specialisations will appear on your academic transcript.

Please see the main programme link below for further details.

Geology is critical to shaping a sustainable future for our planet and a circular economy. This includes fundamental geoscience disciplines, igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary origins of rocks and mineral-forming processes; volcanology, tectonics and structural deformation; engineering geology, environmental change, natural hazards; the sustainable management of natural resources that are facilitating the global energy transition and “green” technology innovations.

There is a strong emphasis on skills development and the application of your knowledge in the real world. This is through practical learning in laboratories as well as fieldwork that includes site visits for field sampling and testing, as well as equipment installation and application.

You’ll gain an internationally accepted qualification, excellent research skills and the knowledge to work in many exciting fields. The Auckland region provides an impressive natural laboratory, and our array of field equipment and analytical facilities supports research activities on land, in the air, and over water.

PhD - Doctor of Philosophy

We welcome PhD proposals in areas including:

• Evolution of the earth, rocks, minerals and fossils
• Geochemistry
• Geophysics
• Quaternary environmental change
• Engineering geology
• Mineral deposits
• Environmental geology
• Volcanoes and structural geology