Physical Geography and Environmental Geosciences is the study of patterns and processes in the environment caused by the forces of nature, with particular emphasis on their spatial arrangement, distribution and change over time. You will examine environmental and ecological problems facing the world and utilise your skills and knowledge to help address problems in innovative ways. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills in Australia is becoming a fast-growing area creating new and increased job prospects. There is a forecasted growth of 14.4% in the Professional, Scientific and Technical Services Industry and with this brings exciting employment opportunities and career options. The projected high rate of employment growth for 2015 to 2019 reflects ongoing strength and demand for the services of qualified and highly educated workers. Source: Employment Projections Employment opportunities as a graduate in physical geography and environmental geosciences are wide-ranging, across a broad range of sectors including government bodies, industry, and consultancy companies. The Physical Geography and Environmental Geosciences major includes fieldwork, practical experience and research that takes advantage of the superb local marine life, coastal landscapes, nearby rainforest escarpment, and freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems unique to the Illawarra. You will learn a range of skills and techniques, including geochemistry and geochronology and the latest technologies in spatial sciences such as global positioning, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (drones and earth observation satellites). What you will study: In your first year, you will study a range of core subjects that will give you a broad understanding of Earth’s dynamic surface, and how the different spheres are interconnected while developing applied skills in modelling and geospatial analysis. In year two and three you will study a range of core subjects to gain more detailed knowledge and develop practical skills across the following areas: Biogeography and environmental change Changing global environments Fluvial geomorphology and river management Coastal processes and management Advanced geospatial analysis Geochemistry, Geochronology and Geophysics. A third-year capstone subject will serve as a culminating achievement of your degree experience, where you will use your knowledge and skills as you work to solve a challenging project. The flexibility of the course also offers a wide range of electives within and outside of the Faculty allowing you to tailor the course to your interests. On completion, high performing students considering further study or a career in research should consider the Bachelor of Science (Honours) program. This one year degree offers students a pathway to expanding their knowledge in physical geography and achieving their research aspirations.

Overview of careers: Research Officer Heritage Officer Policy/Project Officer Hydrologist Tourism and Recreation Planner Geospatial Intelligence Officer Market Researcher Cartographer Climatologist Ranger Environmental Health Officer International Aid Officer.