Bachelor of Earth Science (Honours)

Course Overview

Bachelor of Earth Science (Honours) (CRICOS course code 117201H) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 1 year. This course is classified under Field of Education 010703 Geology (Natural and Physical Sciences). Honours programs in Australia typically involve a combination of advanced coursework and a research project or thesis, building on undergraduate knowledge. Graduates develop skills in geological mapping, geochemical analysis, geophysical techniques, and scientific communication. The University of Western Australia (UWA), established in 1911, is a member of the prestigious Group of Eight and consistently ranks among the world's top 100 universities. UWA's Crawley campus is located near the Swan River, just minutes from Perth's central business district. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, UWA stands out for its research intensity and industry connections in the resources sector. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring your rights as an international student.

What You'll Study

This honours program in Earth Science focuses on Geology (010703), covering areas such as mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology, structural geology, geochemistry, and geophysics. Students undertake a substantial research project, developing skills in field mapping, laboratory analysis, data interpretation, and scientific writing. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for careers in mining, exploration, environmental consulting, geotechnical engineering, or further research (e.g., PhD). Honours graduates are highly regarded by employers in Australia's resources industry, which is concentrated in Western Australia. While specific units are determined by the university, the program typically includes advanced coursework in Earth system science plus a supervised research thesis. This one-year full-time program (52 weeks on the CRICOS register) is taught in English. Note: This is a single qualification—no dual degree or embedded VET component. Foundation studies are not included; however, pathway options may be available through UWA's enabling courses—check with the provider.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration listed on the CRICOS register is 1 year (52 weeks). It is offered on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—not a dual degree and not a VET course. There is no mandatory work component. UWA may also offer part-time options for domestic students, but international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally required to study full-time and complete the course within the registered duration. Always confirm your study load and visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs.

Fees (Indicative – Set by The University of Western Australia (UWA))

Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: Tuition fee A$52,000, non-tuition fee A$373, estimated total A$52,373. These fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710 as of July 2024). For current fee schedules and any scholarships, visit the [provider's website](http://www.uwa.edu.au/). Perth's cost of living: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around A$450–550; groceries A$80–120; public transport A$40–50 (with student concession). These figures are a guide only. ESOS Act protections ensure tuition fees are protected—providers must refund or place students in alternative courses if the course ceases.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Typical entry requirements for an Australian Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) include completion of a recognised bachelor degree in a related field (e.g., geology, earth science, environmental science) with a strong academic record (e.g., at least a credit average, equivalent to GPA 5.0/7.0). The University of Western Australia (UWA) specifies a minimum English language proficiency: IELTS overall 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0, or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL iBT 82–90, PTE 58–64). These are general indicators—check UWA's specific requirements for this honours program. If your prior qualifications do not meet the prerequisites, pathway options may include a postgraduate diploma or a master's qualifying program. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting UWA directly for personalised assessment. All international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their Student visa application.

Work Component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component such as internships, placements, or industry experience. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake voluntary work or paid employment subject to visa conditions (see 'Student visa' section below).

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at The University of Western Australia (UWA) — CRAWLEY, WA. Crawley is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth is home to over 2 million people and has a thriving international student community. Public transport to UWA's campus is excellent: buses from the city centre (e.g., routes 950, 102, 107) and the Elizabeth Quay ferry. The campus is also accessible by bike along the Swan River. Perth has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers (universities and colleges), offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne but rising—budget around A$1,500–2,000 per month for a single student.

Student Visa

International students studying Bachelor of Earth Science (Honours) on a full-time basis will typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UWA, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa, and meeting English language proficiency (if required). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Note: The Department of Home Affairs updates visa conditions—always check the latest on homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Earth Science (Honours) at The University of Western Australia (UWA): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's provider directory to filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Earth Science), and city (Perth). Confirm UWA's CRICOS 00126G and the course code 117201H. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check UWA's entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 6.0–6.5), and application deadlines. Submit your application online through UWA's admissions portal or via a registered education agent. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UWA issues your CoE, lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Include your CoE, OSHC policy, proof of finances, GTE statement, and passport. Processing times vary, so apply early.

Ready to start your journey? Contact The University of Western Australia (UWA) for the latest intake dates and application details.

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