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Questions & Answers

• • Why study Geology or Geophysics?

  Geology or Geophysics can be an excellent choice of Bachelor of Science degree, for any one of the following reasons:

•   Broad scope: Geology and geophysics are branches of science that touch on many other interesting disciplines. Geology/geophysics   students and professionals regularly use biology, physics, chemistry, maths and statistics in their work. So if a student has a general   interest in several branches of science but is not sure which one to choose Geology/Geophysics would be a great choice.
•   Outdoor life: Geology/Geophysics studies include field trips and outdoor activities, an essential part of the profession.
•   Job opportunities: Geologists/Geophysicists are in high demand. Oil industry, mining and geotechnical jobs are available both locally and   world wide with competitive salaries. In addition, geologists may find employment in environmental companies and play a vital role for   example in protecting groundwater sources and our natural heritage.
•   Classroom strategy: Geology classes are limited to 40 students per session to enhance student-professor interaction. This also   enables professors to give quality education in par with Australian standards. Field work and industry visits also provide an opportunity for   contact with fellow students, professionals and instructors.
•   Helping others: Geologist don’t only deal with rocks! The results of their work can be used to save lives and prevent property and   environmental damage. Geologist can help predict and minimize the damage from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, tsunami   and pollution risks, to name just a few.

• • Who should study Geology/Geophysics?  

  Geology or Geophysics would be a good education and career choice for students who:

•   Are interested in the natural world and are keen observers
•   Are interested in a broad range of sciences
•   Have a strong grounding in maths and geography
•   Are naturally curious
•   Enjoy being outdoors, traveling, and observing landforms
•   Wish to contribute to society by preventing environmental damage
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• • What is the difference between Applied Geology and Geophysics ?

  B.Sc. - Geology. This program places particular emphasis on the nature and origin of rock bodies and the resources contained therein at   the local regional and global level.

  B.Sc. - Geophysics. This program focuses on the use of physical phenomena, such as refracted and reflected seismic waves, gravity   variations, and rock magnetism, to understand the Earth, to locate its resources, and to solve its environmental problems.

• • What is the general information about these courses?

• Descriptions of the courses 

Applied Geology: Structured in consultation with industry, the course is designed to provide professional training in exploration and applied geology.  It combines a comprehensive theoretical background in the subject with a strong emphasis on practical applications.  The program aims to develop an appreciation of earth processes, a broad understanding of all major branches of the science, specific skills in field and laboratory work, and an awareness of the role of geology in environmental matters.

Geophysics: Over one-third of the course is devoted to exploration geophysics and the remainder is devoted to core studies in physics, chemistry, mathematics and computing. Students gain a thorough knowledge about, and practical skills in, pertinent aspects of oil and gas exploration & production, minerals and groundwater exploration. 

• • What are the entry requirements?

•   STPM/ A Level - best 3 subjects excluding General paper. (minimum 5 points)
•   Senior Middle 3 MICSS - 5 passes inclusive of English (min. 5 B grades)
•   Other qualifications as matriculated by Curtin University of Technology Sarawak.

• Course structures

Refer to handouts (Applied Geology and Geophysics)

Additional information, please see http://www.cutin.edu.my  School and Department School of Engineering and Science  Department Science and Mathematics

• • What about the course fees?

* An international student is someone who is neither a Malaysian nor a permanent resident of Malaysia.
* Ringgit Malaysia

• • What is the general information about the examination?

  The examinations, tests, laboratory work, online quizzes and assignments/ projects for all units taught in the course are indicated in the   detailed unit outline. 

Example unit assessment

            2 Assignments                          20%
            Online quizzes (weekly)            10%
            Lab work                                 10%
            Final exam                                60%

• • Can the credits transfer to Curtin, Perth?

  Every aspect of the academic programs including course materials and examinations delivered at the Sarawak Campus are identical to the   Curtin programs offered in Perth. Therefore students can transfer their credits if they want to continue their studies at Curtin, Perth.

• • What are the career opportunities? 

  Applied Geology: Applied and exploration aspects of the course account for strong industry demand for Curtin Geology graduates. Students   attend four field camps of about 10 weeks duration during the course, including the preparing of geological maps of selected areas.   Vacation employment in the oil and gas industry provides further experience. Most students seek employment in the oil and gas industry   while others choose to be employed by companies dealing with groundwater studies or environmental sciences.

  Geophysics: Graduates generally find employment with oil and mineral exploration companies and geophysical contractors to those   companies. Many companies operate internationally and personnel may be relocated on international transfer.