Geology University of Canterbury

Overview

The geologist has an important role in land planning processes and in assessing environmental impact.

Geologists have developed one of the most exciting scientific theories of the 20th century – plate tectonics – which explains the origin and locations of all the major geological features and Earth building processes of the planet. Geologists also search for the natural resources that sustain our technological society, not least of all, water. The construction of buildings, bridges, roads, dams, and reservoirs requires geological expertise.

Career opportunities

A career in Geology offers a very wide spectrum of work environments and employment opportunities. Graduates of the he Geology course offered at University of Canterbury find positions as research scientists, policy analysts, exploration geophysicists, mining and exploration geologists, practitioner engineering geologist with consultancies, natural hazard analysts and consultants, coal and petroleum geologists, teachers, GIS specialists, environmental impact officers and consultants, hydro-geologists, seismic interpreters, resource advisors, research technicians, soil technicians and research assistants, museum curators, and more.

They are employed in the mining and petroleum industries, national and local government, planning and conservation organisations, university teaching and research, secondary teaching, museums and science centres, energy companies, consulting and engineering firms, research institutes, and exploration firms.