Future Students

Geochemistry

Almost all Earth processes involve chemical processes in the formation, alteration and recycling of materials. These include the formation of mineral deposits, the behaviour of contaminants in the subsurface, the way landscapes evolve through weathering, and changes in the composition of groundwater and other fluids.

Its application ranges from mineral deposit exploration and environmental contamination to land rehabilitation and forensic science.

Graduates of this course will have a strong background in both geology and chemistry; this depth and breadth of knowledge will open career opportunities in both fields. You will also be able to solve geological problems requiring an in-depth knowledge of chemistry, which is vital to many areas of science, such as environmental science.

Geochemistry graduates are currently in demand in a range of fields, primarily based around the resources and environmental sector. Geochemistry is a three year named programme under the Bachelor of Science degree. Once completed you will graduate with a Bachelor of Science (Geochemistry). 

Level 1
You will study the units Earth and Environment: Dynamic Planet; Earth and Environment: Geological Perspectives; Chemistry and Maths.

Level 2
In Level 2 you will study Analytical and Physical Chemistry, Earth Materials, Field Geology, Geochemistry, Structural and Metamorphic Geology, and Structure Determination and Physical Chemistry. Plus units towards your second major in either Chemistry, Geology, or Land, Soil and Water. 

Level 3
Level 3 units include Mineralogy and Petrology; Ore Deposit Genesis; Environmental Chemistry, and Chemistry in the Workplace. Plus units towards a major in either Chemistry; Geology; or Land, Soil and Water.

If you are interested in finding out which subjects you will study then have a look at the Course Outline. This will show you the core units and the options for the course, along with course rules.

You will notice that each unit has a unit code, for example EART1105. The first number in the unit code indicates the level of the unit - in this case level one. For a more detailed description of a particular unit, click on the unit code

Career opportunities

This course will give you a strong background in both geology and chemistry; this depth and breadth of knowledge will open career opportunities in both fields. You will also be able to solve geological problems requiring an in-depth knowledge of chemistry, which is vital to many areas of science, such as environmental science. Geochemistry graduates are currently in demand in a range of fields, primarily based around the resources and environmental sectors. Employers of geochemists include private companies, CSIRO, universities and government agencies.