Program Overview
Victoria University of Wellington's Earth Sciences program provides a comprehensive exploration of the Earth's structure, history, and dynamic forces. Students gain hands-on experience through fieldwork and laboratory sessions, and are equipped with skills for careers in scientific advising, mining, consulting, and research. The program emphasizes experiential learning and collaboration with esteemed research institutions, and is consistently ranked highly in international rankings.
Program Outline
Students will gain knowledge about the Earth's atmosphere, inner core, mountain formation, rock formation, tectonic plates, volcanoes, faults, past climates, dinosaurs, and the origin and evolution of life. The program's objectives include equipping students with the skills and knowledge to:
- Understand and analyze the natural hazards and powerful forces that shape the Earth.
- Investigate weather patterns, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
- Conduct field observations and data analysis.
- Utilize quantitative and thinking skills for various occupations.
Outline:
Subjects:
- Geology (UG & PG)
- Earth History
Coursework:
- Students will participate in fieldwork and laboratory sessions, gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Teaching:
Learning Environment:
- Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories on campus.
- Fieldwork opportunities expose them to real-world scenarios and research practices.
Faculty Expertise:
- The program boasts renowned faculty like Professor Colin Wilson, a fellow of the Royal Society in London, who is recognized for his contributions to volcanology and Earth Sciences research at Victoria University of Wellington.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork and collaboration with esteemed research institutions like GNS Science, NIWA, MetService, and the Earthquake Commission.
Careers:
Graduates of the Earth Sciences program are equipped for diverse and impactful roles, including:
- Scientific advisors in government sectors.
- Professionals in mining and mineral exploration.
- Consultants in private firms.
- Researchers at Crown research institutes.
- Postgraduate studies in Earth Sciences. The program equips students with valuable quantitative and thinking skills applicable to a broad spectrum of occupations.
Other:
- The University is recognized internationally for its Antarctic Research Centre, which has made significant contributions to climate change research.
Victoria University of Wellington
Overview:
Victoria University of Wellington, also known as Te Herenga Waka, is a public research university located in Wellington, New Zealand. It is recognized as New Zealand's leading university for research intensity and consistently ranks among the world's best universities.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Student portal (Pūaha):
Provides access to academic information, course materials, and student support services.Learning environment (Nuku):
A platform for online learning and course management.Library:
Extensive collection of resources, including books, journals, and digital databases.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Financial aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and student loans to support students' financial needs.Career services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job searching.Health and wellbeing services:
Counseling, medical, and other support services for students' physical and mental health.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Victoria University of Wellington offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can:
Join clubs and societies:
Engage in a wide range of interests and activities.Participate in events:
Attend lectures, workshops, and social gatherings.Explore Wellington:
Enjoy the city's cultural attractions, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife.Connect with alumni:
Network with former students and build professional relationships.Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class research:
The university is renowned for its high-quality research across various disciplines.Strong industry connections:
Close ties with businesses and government organizations in the capital city.Vibrant campus community:
A diverse and welcoming environment with a strong sense of belonging.Location in Wellington:
Offers a unique and exciting city experience with access to cultural and natural attractions.Academic Programs:
Victoria University of Wellington offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including:
Architecture and Design Innovation
Business and Government
Education
Engineering
Graduate Research
Health
Humanities and Social Sciences
Law
Science
Other:
The university is committed to providing a high-quality research-led learning and teaching environment and to rewarding and celebrating excellence in all its forms. It also offers a range of international exchange programs and opportunities for students to gain global experience.
Entry Requirements:
- Domestic Students (New Zealand Citizens and Permanent Residents):
- NCEA Level 3: University Entrance (UE).
- Subjects: Three subjects at Level 3 or higher, including at least 14 credits in each of English and one other subject.
- Scholarship: A scholarship in any subject is highly recommended.
- International Students (Outside New Zealand)
- National Qualifications: Equivalent to NCEA Level 3 University Entrance.
- Specific Qualifications:
- A score of at least 550 in the TOEFL iBT test.
- A score of at least 7.0 in the IELTS test.
- Completion of an internationally recognized foundation program in science or engineering.
- Completion of a bridging program specifically designed to prepare students for university study in New Zealand.
- English Language Proficiency:
- All international students are required to demonstrate English language proficiency.
- This requirement can be met by achieving a score of at least 5.5 in the IELTS Academic test or 55 in the TOEFL iBT test.
- International students may be eligible for scholarships and other financial aid.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0.
- TOEFL: 90 overall with at least 20 in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking sections.
- Cambridge English Proficiency Test: 185+
- Students who do not meet the standard entry requirements may be eligible for admission through other pathways, such as the University of Wellington's Foundation Studies program or the Mature Entry Scheme.
