| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-02-01 | - |
| 2026-02-01 | - |
Program Overview
Graduate Certificate in Mineral Exploration Geoscience
Overview
This 12-month, part-time, predominantly online course provides an introduction to the concepts and techniques used by geologists and others in exploring for and evaluating mineral and energy deposits. It assumes no prior geological knowledge, and is well suited for those who are already employed by or interact with the resources sector in finance, investment, administration or non-geological technical roles, and wish to gain a better understanding of the geoscience behind mineral and energy exploration projects.
What you'll learn
- Describe and classify minerals, rocks and Earth resources, and explain their formation using geoscientific concepts
- Solve geoscience problems through creative thinking and data analysis, allowing for the uncertainty of geoscience information
- Collate, synthesise, and visualise geoscientifc data, and communicate this information to industry and community stakeholders
- Recognise the finite nature of Earth resources, and the social and environmental impacts of resource extraction and geohazards
- Recognise different perspectives on ownership and extraction of Earth resources, including those of First Peoples
- Collaborate with professionals across the minerals and energy value chain, and prioritise safety in all situations
Admission criteria
- English requirements:
- IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)
- Writing: 6.0
- Speaking: 6.0
- Reading: 6.0
- Listening: 6.0
- Overall band score: 6.5
- IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)
- Other requirements and notes for this course:
- Applicants require a recognised Bachelor Degree in any discipline.
- Alternatively, applicants with more than three years' demonstrable experience working in a geoscience field may be considered for entry into the Graduate Certificate.
Fees and scholarships
- Australian and New Zealand student indicative fees:
- 2025 Fee year: $4,700* (Commonwealth supported)
- 2025 Fee year: $15,824* (Domestic)
- Fees are indicative only and subject to passage of legislation.
Location
- Curtin Kalgoorlie
- The course is available online, however the unit Field Geology and Maps is comprised of a 5 day face-to-face classroom and field delivery in Kalgoorlie as well as online activities.
How to apply
- Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice
- Curtin Kalgoorlie
- Please note that each campus has different application deadlines. View our application deadlines page for further information.
Course structure
- The course is of one year duration part time study.
- A full-time study load usually consists of 200 credits (approximately eight units) per year, with 100 credits (approximately four units) in each semester.
- The course is nested in the Graduate Diploma Mineral Exploration Geoscience, and students may use their Graduate Certificate as a stepping stone to the next award.
Credit for recognised learning (CRL)
- Use your experience to get credit towards your degree
- Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.
Duration
- This course is of one year duration part time study.
- The course is available online, however the unit Field Geology and Maps is comprised of a 5 day face-to-face classroom and field delivery in Kalgoorlie as well as online activities.
Qualification
- Graduate Certificate in Mineral Exploration Geoscience
Credit
- A full-time study load usually consists of 200 credits (approximately eight units) per year, with 100 credits (approximately four units) in each semester.
- The course is nested in the Graduate Diploma Mineral Exploration Geoscience, and students may use their Graduate Certificate as a stepping stone to the next award.
Curtin University
Overview:
Curtin University is a public research university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is known for its strong focus on research and innovation, particularly in the fields of mining, engineering, and health sciences. Curtin offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as professional development courses. The university has a global presence with campuses in Dubai, Malaysia, Mauritius, and Singapore.
Services Offered:
Curtin University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Learning Support:
Disability planning, industry placements, global study opportunities, and access to learning and study spaces.Campus Life:
Accommodation options, information about living in Perth, food and retail services, regional study opportunities, sports and social clubs, health and wellbeing resources, and campus events.International Student Support:
Assistance with moving to Australia, application procedures, English language programs, and opportunities to meet with university representatives in their home countries.Financial Assistance:
Information on fees and charges, financial assistance programs, and scholarships.Career Support:
Access to career advisors and resources to help students with their career planning.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Curtin University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Sports and Recreation:
Joining sports teams, participating in recreational activities, and attending campus events.Social Clubs:
Joining student clubs and societies based on their interests.Campus Events:
Attending lectures, workshops, and social events organized by the university.Global Study Opportunities:
Studying abroad at one of Curtin's international campuses or participating in exchange programs.Key Reasons to Study There:
High Graduate Employment Rate:
Curtin University has the highest rate of graduates finding full-time employment among Western Australia's public universities.Research Excellence:
Curtin's research is rated at or above world standard, with a strong focus on innovation.Global Recognition:
Curtin is ranked second in the world for mineral and mining engineering.Diverse and Inclusive Campus:
Curtin celebrates diversity and aims to create a welcoming environment for all students.Strong Industry Partnerships:
Curtin collaborates with industry, government, and First Nations people to create meaningful change and solve real-world problems.Academic Programs:
Curtin University offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Agriculture, Environment and Sustainability
Architecture and Construction
Arts and Creative Industries
Business, Innovation, Management and Law
Culture, Society and Indigenous
Education
Engineering, Mining and Surveying
Health
Information Technology
Physical Sciences, Geoscience and Mathematics
Other:
Curtin University is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on addressing the UN's global sustainable development goals. The university also has a strong commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement and aims to embed their voices and perspectives in its decision-making.
