Program Overview

Program Overview

The GEOS2916: Earth Surface Processes (Advanced) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the processes that shape the Earth's surface. The program focuses on the balance between tectonic forces and agents of erosion, and how these processes impact the management of landscapes.

Program Description

The program explores the dynamic nature of Earth's landscapes, which are constantly changing in response to climate, tectonics, and patterns of life. Students will learn about the planetary and regional-scale controls on landforms and landscape dynamics, and the nature and distribution of major Australian landscape types. The program is delivered through lectures by experts in physical geography, geology, soil science, and environmental science, and includes hands-on field and laboratory-based tasks.

Program Details

• Study Level: Undergraduate
• Academic Unit: Geosciences Academic Operations
• Credit Points: 6

Enrolment Rules

• Prerequisites: Annual average mark of at least 70
• Corequisites: None
• Prohibitions: GEOS2116 or GEOG2321
• Assumed Knowledge: None

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students should be able to:

• Identify the major planetary- and regional-scale geological, tectonic, and climatic controls on landform and landscape dynamics.
• Describe and classify common landscape types and explain the processes that govern their form and distribution.
• Explain and evaluate the influence of geomorphic processes on the management and modification of contemporary landscapes.
• Interpret stratigraphic facies in terms of the geomorphic processes responsible for their formation.
• Demonstrate understanding of geological time by comparing and applying methods used to date Earth materials.
• Apply field and laboratory techniques to collect, document, and analyze data on landform processes.
• Use and evaluate spatial analysis and modelling software to investigate earth surface processes and landscape types.
• Apply critical thinking and develop problem-solving strategies in classroom, field, and laboratory contexts.
• Communicate complex scientific knowledge, concepts, and ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences using appropriate media.
• Demonstrate safe, ethical, and collaborative professional conduct when working independently or in groups.

Unit Availability

The program is available in various sessions, including:

• Semester 2 2025: Normal day, Camperdown / Darlington, Sydney
• Semester 2 2026: Normal day, Camperdown / Darlington, Sydney
• Previous years: Various sessions and locations available.