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. 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 application of 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 Major Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this major students will be able to: Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge and understanding of the trends, processes and impacts that shape the Earth and its environment including local, national, global, cultural, Indigenous and spatial perspectives. Critically evaluate information and data to assess scientific methods and frameworks in the environmental sciences. Develop hypotheses and experiments to test against evidence-based scientific facts, laws, principles and evidence. Identify and articulate real world problems derived from the environmental sciences. Apply knowledge and appropriate techniques, including those associated with fieldwork, to evaluate possible solutions to real world problems and defend choice of solution against alternatives. Locate, synthesise and evaluate data, information, results and literature pertaining to the environmental sciences using appropriate methods, measurements, tools and technologies. Communicate environmental science perspectives and knowledge effectively to a range of audiences using appropriate technologies and communication skills. Career opportunities 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.