Associate Degree of Geoscience

CQUniversity’s Associate Degree of Geoscience will provide you with a sound geo-scientific understanding in combination with up-to-date technology so that you can develop sustainable practices for communities, society and the environment in general. On graduation, you may work in support of professional geologists or geophysicists in order to provide an understanding of geological resources below the surface – metals, minerals, coal, oil and gas, and construction materials. 

You will learn how to classify and interpret the major geological structures and assist in the development of the mechanisms of accessing and extracting the geological resources. As a result of your studies, you will also be able to assess the validity of undertaking geophysical surveys at a site and interpret the results of such a survey, design a geophysical survey and apply the appropriate geophysical methods (seismic, magnetic, gravity, nuclear, electrical, and electromagnetic) to a survey design.

What am I studying?

Mining involves the exploration and extraction of minerals and is one of Australia’s most important industries, providing growth in employment and contributing to Australia’s wealth. A career in mining offers great income potential and can also equip you with the skills and experience to work anywhere in the world.

The mining industry is one of the most technologically advanced industries in Australia and gives you the opportunity to work with the latest tools and equipment.

Another characteristic of this industry is flexible rosters, allowing you to balance work with family and leisure. If you’re interested in working in an industry that is innovative, recognised on a global scale, offers generous pay and a flexible lifestyle, then a career in mining may be for you.

Why Study Mining and Geoscience at CQUniversity

CQUniversity offers programs in mining including the Associate Degree of Geoscience, the Associate Degree of Mine Operations Management and the Associate Degree of Mine Technology. Our suite of mining programs is available  by distance education and part-time, giving you the unique flexibility to study from where you want and the ability to remain in the workforce while you study to gain valuable industry experience.

Programs are based on the project-based learning philosophy which offers the opportunity for students to learn in context. This approach is designed to produce work-ready graduates with industry-relevant skills.

Career Opportunities

On completing an Associate Degree of Geoscience, you will be qualified to find employment in national and international public and private industry sectors, including the mining, geophysical exploration, energy, transportation, construction, and education industries.

Geoscience associates typically work in positions like geological field technician, drill supervisor, strata control technician, support geologist, geotechnical engineer and other technical professions with skills in open-pit and underground mines, controlling the grade of the ore mined and locating extensions to ore deposits and defining the ore limits at the mine based on economic considerations, high wall mapping, underground mapping and data gathering.

Program Structure

You are required to complete a total of 16 compulsory courses.

Course Information

For example courses you could study as part of the Associate Degree of Geoscience program please click here.

As CQUniversity is committed to providing quality, up-to-date and relevant education, please note courses are refreshed regularly and may not be an exact indication of course availability for your study. Please call 13CQUni 13 27 86 if you have specific questions regarding course information regarding your specific application.

Residential School and Study Requirements

Dependant upon courses selected, compulsory attendance is required.