Master of Science in Earth Sciences

As a Master of Science in Earth Sciences student, you’ll delve into the complex systems and processes that shape our planet at a time when understanding it has never been more important. You’ll be studying at Australia’s leading academic research institution for Earth sciences, consistently ranked top 10 in the world (QS rankings). We have a reputation for international leadership and innovation, focused on developing new methods, whether experimental, analytical or computational. You'll study courses ranging from computational geosciences to analytical techniques, biogeochemistry, experimental petrology, geobiology, geochemistry, geochronology, geophysics, ocean and climate change and planetary sciences. If you want cutting-edge science training with some of the best facilities and experts in the world, check out our website for further information. Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must present a Bachelor degree or international equivalent

The GPA requirement for this program must be met by both the program as a whole, as well as by the 8 courses in a cognate discipline. Where more than 8 cognate courses have been completed by the applicant, ANU will take the best 8 courses when assessing the cognate GPA.

The GPA for a Bachelor program will be calculated from (i) a completed Bachelor degree using all grades and/or (ii) a completed Bachelor degree using all grades other than those from the last semester (or equivalent study period) of the Bachelor degree. The higher of the two calculations will be used as the basis for admission.

Ranking and English language proficiency: At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry. In line with the University's admissions policy and strategic plan, an assessment for admission may include competitively ranking applicants on the basis of specific academic achievement, English language proficiency and diversity factors. Applicants will first be ranked on a GPA ('GPA1') that is calculated using all but the last semester (or equivalent) of the Bachelor degree used for admission purposes. If required, ranking may further be confirmed on the basis of:

Prior to enrolment in this ANU program, all students who gain entry will have their Bachelor degree reassessed, to confirm minimum requirements were met.

Further information: English language admission requirements and post-admission support

Employment Opportunities

A Master of Science in Earth Sciences gives you the opportunity to gain a wide range of knowledge and skills that are relevant for employment in industry, government agencies and education. It is an excellent qualification for pursuing a career in tectonics, geochronology, mineral exploration and hydrocarbon exploration.