Geology, the science of the Earth, is concerned with understanding:
The Earth's internal structure and composition, its dynamic character (earthquakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics), and the processes that occur within it
The processes that shape the surface of the Earth, and the materials that constitute its surface layers
The origin, occurrence, extraction and conservation of the Earth's natural resources - minerals, fossil fuels, soils, water
The place of the Earth within the Solar System
The history of life on Earth.
An understanding of Geology/Earth Science has direct relevance for students majoring in disciplines such as Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Ecology, Environmental Science, Geography, Marine Science, Physics, Surveying, and Zoology (as well as those who intend to major in Geology).
Increasingly, understanding of geological principles and processes is essential for those concerned with awareness of natural hazards, civil engineering problems, impacts of global change, the responsible utilisation of Earth's natural resources, pollution and waste disposal, and environmental and resource planning and monitoring.
The study of Geology at Otago highlights the exciting and dynamic geological history of New Zealand, and the origin of the New Zealand fauna and flora.
