Why Master of Science?
In the transition to a low-carbon energy future, it is crucial that we find, develop and responsibly use our planet's resources.
With our Master of Science specialising in Sustainable Georesources, you’ll gain expertise in the geological processes responsible for the formation of Earth’s natural resources. Discover methods of safe, efficient and eco-conscious exploration and extraction of Earth’s resources. Learn how to responsibly manage resources for future generations. Take a holistic approach, ensuring environmental protection and social equity.
Use statistics and advanced data analysis to model and analyse geoscientific data and geological phenomena. Investigate critical mineral resources that support human development and the green energy transition. You’ll also explore sustainable technologies and practices, preparing you for a career in global transformation sectors.
Overview
The Master of Science specialising in Sustainable Georesources is designed to provide a holistic approach to understanding, discovering and managing Earth’s natural resources. You’ll focus on mineral exploration, geological processes and mapping, and critical minerals – all key areas for sustainable future progress and the green energy transition.
Discover how resources support human development. Build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Learn how to balance resource extraction and use with limited environmental impact.
You’ll gain the professional capacities to respond to the changing and challenging demands of our world in innovative ways. Graduate with the skills to reflect on current trends and implement sustainable practices for generations to come.
Key features
Learn responsible management techniques in utilising Earth’s natural resources. - Gain skills in understanding geological processes and geological mapping
- Address human perspectives of mineral exploration – encouraging connections with local cultural heritage.
- Discover the impacts of resource mining on the environment, economy and society.
- Navigate current practices and develop new sustainable exploration models.
- Build your skills in research with a geoscience-based research project.
What you'll learn
This degree delivers core courses in applied sustainable geosciences and science research communication. Build your knowledge in global processes and ethical uses of resource practices. Explore critical minerals and the ongoing need for securing essential supplies for a clean energy world. Uncover the processes that control the formation of ore deposits and mineral resources. You’ll also address cultural heritage management principles to ensure ethical and respectful extraction.
Develop core problem-solving skills and solve geological relationships, synthesising them into 4D models. Examine the formation of different types of sedimentary basins and their relationship to mineral and energy resources. Learn advanced data processing to numerically model and code geoscience.
Across two years of studies, you’ll learn in diverse teaching environments including face-to-face and online delivery modes. You’ll apply theoretical concepts and conduct experiments in practical classroom settings, as well as engaging with other students in online learning environments.
You’ll spend the majority of your second year undertaking an industry-led research project. Supervised by academics and industry professionals, you’ll decide on a relevant topic in a field that interests you – producing either an artefact or exegesis. Strengthen your skills in research and get ready to be a leader in developing earth-friendly solutions in a growing technological world.
Specialisations
The Master of Science is also available with specialisations in the following:
Degree Structure: Master of Science specialising in Sustainable Georesources
Program code: MASCI
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 78 to 96 units for one Major from Specialisations, and
- 0 to 18 units for Electives
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 78 to 96 units for one Major from Specialisations, and
- 0 to 18 units for Electives
Complete 54 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Mineral Systems
|
Course code
EART5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Life-of-Asset Sustainability
|
Course code
EART5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exploration and Resource Development 1: Geology and Geochemistry
|
Course code
EART5011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Data Analysis and Interpretation
|
Course code
EART6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Communication
|
Course code
EART6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Field Geoscience
|
Course code
EART5012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exploration and Resource Development 2: Geophysics
|
Course code
EART6006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Social License to Operate
|
Course code
BIOL6005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
GIS for Environmental Management
|
Course code
ENVI3011
|
Units
6
|
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
Complete 24 units comprising:
- 24 units from Work integrated learning
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Georesources Industry Project
|
Course code
EART6903
|
Units
24
|
Electives description
A flexible course choice within your degree.
Complete 0 to 18 units comprising:
- 0 to 18 units from University-wide electives
A full list of university-wide elective options can be accessed below.
University-wide elective options
Career outcomes
The field of sustainable georesources offers a variety of career opportunities focused on the responsible discovery and management of Earth's natural resources.
Professionals in this field work across various sectors, including government, industry and research, ensuring resource extraction and use are environmentally friendly, economically viable and socially equitable.
Perhaps you’ll focus on the early stages of resource extraction projects, assessing the potential of an area for further exploration or resource extraction. Maybe you’ll conduct environmental impact assessments to determine the environmental impact of mining, construction, waste disposal or industrial operations. Or perhaps you’ll work with businesses, governments, or not-for-profits to develop sustainability strategies and goals that reduce their ecological footprint while maintaining business performance.
Careers you might consider include:
- Exploration geologist
- Production geologist
- Remediation geologist
- Environmental geoscientist
- Environmental policy analyst
- Climate change analyst
- Sustainability consultant
- Research scientist.
Industry trends
As economies shift toward renewable energies, sustainability specialists are becoming one of the fastest growing and in-demand roles in the world. Opportunities are expected to grow by up to 34% in 2027 – translating to approximately one million further jobs (World Economic Forum, 2023).
According to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, approximately 70% of all ice-free land has been altered by human activity, impacting 3.2 billion people (2024). With Adelaide University’s Master of Science degree, you’ll contribute to making our world more ethically sustainable by limiting the impact on our Earth’s natural resources.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Dr Laura Morrissey
Program Director
College of Science
School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
