Learn the essential research skills for an enduring career in palaeontology
Palaeontology, the study of fossils and the history of life on earth, continues to be a dynamic and evolving field. With the rapid emergence of new technology such as high-resolution CT scans and 3D modelling, this area of scientific study requires professionals who can adapt to changes in areas such as academic research and fieldwork processes.
UNE offers a range of innovative undergraduate and postgraduate courses and specialisations in palaeontology designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need to advance in this dynamic scientific field. Because UNE has a long history of helping adults ready themselves for changes in the workplace, our palaeontology courses focus on developing your transferrable skills in critical thinking, data analysis and scientific communication, as well as your practical research skills, ensuring you are future-fit to adapt to this ever-evolving field.
Most of our students choose to study online and become members of a community of adults who bring their life and work experiences together to develop real-world networks for the future. On-campus learners can enjoy our campus accommodation, sports facilities and support services. Whether online or on-campus, you can choose to study full-time or part-time over three trimesters.
With UNE, you’ll graduate prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead when studying the biology and evolution of prehistoric life, whether you choose to pursue a career in academia, museums or policy. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
Explore the palaeontology courses and specialisations on offer at UNE.
Courses by study level
Geoscience plays a crucial role in finding, extracting and managing earth resources. These minerals and energy resources are essential to almost every aspect of our day-to-day modern life. Studying UNE's Bachelor of GeoScience online or on campus will open doors to a range of opportunities for you in this critical field. Our course has a strong practical focus on earth science, geology and GIS, allowing you to upskill and future fit your career. You will expand your knowledge of our planet's composition, structure and natural geological systems, and hone your skills in managing the earth's resource to secure their continuing contribution to our socio-economic wellbeing in the future.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With 20 majors to choose from, UNE’s Bachelor of Science is flexibly delivered by experts in research and teaching. Tailor your degree towards generalist or specialist science, while developing a broad scientific base and refining your abilities in critical analysis and complex problem solving. Our majors span the pure and applied sciences, with specialisation available in traditional disciplines and emerging fields.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
In a rapidly changing world, there has never been a better time to expand your understanding of science and technology. UNE’s Bachelor of Scientific Studies is designed to provide you with broad scientific background to assist with future employment or to pursue further study. It is also a pathway to transition to a specialised science-based degree if you do not have an educational background in science. Our course encourages the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as skills for communication and lifelong learning, allowing you to apply these skills to your specific field of interest.
With an adaptable skill set you will be ready to respond to the challenges and opportunities in any career.
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Are you interested in studying science and want to explore the topics that interest you? UNE’s Diploma in Science is ideal if you are new to university study and want to get started in science, or if you wish to develop a foundation of skills and knowledge across a broad range of scientific disciplines to supplement your study in another field or add value to your role. Our course is designed to provide you with maximum flexibility, allowing you to tailor your program of study to your individual needs, with guidance and support from our experienced academic staff.
Choose from units across a wide range of scientific disciplines or focus on a specific subject area, and equip yourself with the tools you will need to pursue further study or pivot in your career and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Palaeontology is the study of prehistoric life forms (or fossils) preserved in rocks and ancient sediments and the evolution of life on Earth. It is a multidisciplinary science, involving not only geology but also aspects of biology and chemistry.
The University of New England is one of only a few educational institutions in Australia that offers a coherent undergraduate program of study in palaeontology. Our Undergraduate Certificate in Palaeontology will provide you with foundational knowledge and skills in this fascinating field.
Whether you want to experience a taste for university studies, or you're currently working in the field and want to gain tertiary qualifications to boost your skills, this course is the ideal starting point.
The units neatly combine to form a standalone qualification or a pathway towards diplomas and degrees, diplomas and masters’ awards at UNE.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.
Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.
- 0.5 years full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations. You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.
When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.
- 4 years full-time
- 8 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.
You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and research training, and to contribute to current scientific knowledge. You will be supervised by internationally-recognised scientists and with opportunities to immerse yourself in UNE's vibrant research culture and access to our world-class facilities, develop your skills as a research professional.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award with UNE will help you to achieve.
Studying a Non-Award means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load. Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
- Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own 4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
- ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
- ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
- ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units from any of the available units in a degree to create a Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
- ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.
Why study with us?
The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.
Greg KemmettFind the right major or specialisation for your studies in Palaeontology
As science technology advances, UNE’s courses and majors will help you stay at the forefront of palaeontology research practices and ensure your position as a valued member of this inquiry-based profession. Explore the options in palaeontology now.
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Fields such as conservation and land management are calling for professionals with expertise in natural history. The experts at UNE will help you to build advanced knowledge of flora, fauna, ecosystems and geology. Future-fit your career and be…
Fields such as conservation and land management are calling for professionals with expertise in natural history. The experts at UNE will help you to build advanced knowledge of flora, fauna, ecosystems and geology. Future-fit your career and be ready to tackle biodiversity loss and climate change.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Zoology | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Zoology | Major | Undergraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
UNE is ready to prepare you for the future of palaeobiology. Develop the technical geological skills needed to compete in this rapidly developing field. Stand out from the crowd by honing the communication, collaboration and leadership skills that…
UNE is ready to prepare you for the future of palaeobiology. Develop the technical geological skills needed to compete in this rapidly developing field. Stand out from the crowd by honing the communication, collaboration and leadership skills that will make you an asset to any employer.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Zoology | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Zoology | Major | Undergraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE's established reputation in palaeontology and be introduced to recent and future tech advancements in fossil discovery and analysis. With our experts, you will build the skills in taxonomy, ecology, and geology needed in the…
Benefit from UNE's established reputation in palaeontology and be introduced to recent and future tech advancements in fossil discovery and analysis. With our experts, you will build the skills in taxonomy, ecology, and geology needed in the fast-changing worlds of science, research and education.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of GeoScience | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of GeoScience | Major | Undergraduate |
Undergraduate Certificate in Palaeontology | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
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Why study with us?
Australian Universities
Public NSW Universities
NSW Universities
Careers in Palaeontology
By studying palaeontology with UNE, you will have the future-proof skillset to secure positions in science-related careers and in a variety of fields beyond. With the world rapidly changing, professionals with scientific research skills can find work in a variety of settings.
- Palaeontologist
Conduct research to discover, identify and analyse fossils to learn about ancient life forms and ecosystems. - Museum curator
Work in museums and cultural institutions to manage and curate fossil collections, organise exhibits and educate the public. - Environmental consultant
Assess the environmental impact of development projects, including evaluating potential fossil resources. - Academic
Teach palaeontology at a university level and conduct research in academic settings, specialising in areas such as micropalaeontology or palaeobiology. - Geologist
Study rocks, minerals and other attributes of the earth, applying palaeontological skillsets such as stratigraphy and sedimentology. - Park ranger
Work in national parks and protected areas, educating visitors about paleontological resources and preserving fossils. - Science writer
Write for newspapers, magazines and other media about issues and events in the world of science. - Science illustrator
Create accurate illustrations of prehistoric life and fossils for educational materials and publications.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Browse other disciplines within Sciences
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.