Why Master of Science?
Adelaide University’s two-year Master of Science specialising in Mineral Geoscience provides advanced scientific and professional training for students wishing to deepen expertise in geology and geophysics, and help resource our future.
You will be studying in South Australia, the state at the forefront of the energy transition and an attractive destination for mining investment with vast copper, uranium and other critical metal deposits, a supportive government and a vibrant minerals industry.
At Adelaide University, you will benefit from strong industry connections and a University ranked in the top 100 in the world in Geology, Geophysics and Earth and Marine Sciences. Throughout the program you will develop highly transferable, globally applicable skills in geology, geophysics, data science and geoscience communication - preparing you to confidently enter and excel in the evolving resources sector.
Overview
The Master of Science specialising in Mineral Geoscience consists of nine core courses, three electives and a research project. It is designed to provide a holistic approach to understanding, discovering and sustainably managing Earth’s mineral resources in a rapidly changing world. You will graduate with a unique combination of technical expertise, field experience and professional capabilities, equipping you to contribute to the responsible development of future mineral resources that will underpin the future needs of society.
You will be immersed in an academic environment which hosts the Australian Centre for Critical Minerals and is at the forefront of national research-industry-government collaborations, hosting key nodes of the Mineral Exploration Cooperative Research Centre (MinEX CRC) and the Australian Research Council Training Centre for Critical Resources for the Future (CCRF).
Your industry-focused independent research project will draw directly on the expertise, partnerships and cutting-edge facilities within these internationally significant centres - providing you with a unique opportunity to engage with real-world challenges and contribute to the future of mineral exploration and critical resources.
Key features
Immerse yourself in a world class iron-oxide copper gold mineral province.- Combine fundamental geological knowledge with hands-on practicals and fieldtrips.
- Integrate geophysical techniques to answer real exploration challenges.
- A “life-of-mine” approach to economic and environmental sustainability of mineral resource projects.
- Undertake an industry-relevant research project aligned to your interests and supervised by our world-leading geoscientists.
- Choose from a range of electives.
What you'll learn
In our Master of Science specialising in Mineral Geoscience, you will:
- advance your knowledge of the geological processes that form ore deposits and mineral resources
- gain invaluable knowledge, experience and essential skills for your future career in geoscience such as core logging and geological mapping
- learn geophysical techniques used by the mineral exploration industry
- become familar with Geographic Information Systems and their use for environmental mapping, spatial modelling and analysis
- grow your understanding of the mining cycle, processing and the resources industry
- learn how to assess social licence and sustainability credentials of projects
- discover responsible management techniques in utilising Earth's mineral resources
- develop advanced data science analysis and interpretation skills
- deepen your critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills
- learn in diverse teaching environments including practical activities in the classroom, fieldwork and site visits.
Specialisations
The Master of Science is also available with specialisations in the following:
Degree Structure: Master of Science specialising in Mineral Geoscience
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
Exploration and Resource Development 2: Geophysics
|
Course code
EART6006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Data Analysis and Interpretation
|
Course code
EARTX402
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Geoscience Communication
|
Course code
EARTX403
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Field Geoscience
|
Course code
EARTX412
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
GIS for Environmental Management
|
Course code
ENVIX411
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Social Licence to Operate
|
Course code
BIOL5001
|
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
With a Masters of Science specialising in Mineral Geoscience, you will be equipped for a variety of careers that seek to discover and responsibly manage Earth’s mineral resources.
Professionals in this field work across various sectors, including government, industry and research.
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
There is a global shortage of trained geoscientists, which restricts the world’s ability to discover and develop the critical minerals required for the future (A geoscientist shortage could undermine U.S.-Australian deal on critical minerals | Science | AAAS).
The geoscience talent gap is projected to result in strong employment growth in geoscience roles and the potential for experienced geoscientists to command premium salaries globally (https://discoveryalert.com.au/workforce-crisis-critical-minerals-2026-geoscience-talent-gap/). Geologists are on Australia’s priority skilled migration list and geoscience is highlighted as a major capability gap in the Australian Academy of Science’s report into Australia’s future (Australian Science, Australia's Future | Australian Academy of Science). Be part of the global push to find and sustainably develop the resources we need for the energy transition.
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 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.
