Curtin Malaysia applied geology students go on field trips to study past and modern environments

Miri – 19 November 2019 – Applied geology students of Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently went for one-day field trip around Miri city as part of their ‘Evolving Earth Systems and Paleontology’ unit requirement.

According to Associate Lecturer Vivian Dayong, who accompanied the students, field trips are an important aspect of studying Curtin’s Bachelor of Science in Applied Geology as they allow the students to relate concepts learnt in class to real geological environments.

The purpose of this field trip was to study fossils found at two locations – the Miri Hospital Outcrop and Lutong Beach – and learn how to use them to interpret past and modern environments.

Vivian said the Miri Hospital Outcrop, which is located not far from the Miri Hospital and thus the name, was chosen as an ideal site to study ancient environments as it has various types of ancient fossils and rock types.

Meanwhile, at Lutong Beach, the students hunted for more recent fossils, which they   compared with fossils found at the Miri Hospital Outcrop to see if both places have the same depositional environment.

“Fossil studies are important not only in understanding the ancient environment but also crucial in providing insights into climate change and the study of evolution,” said Vivian.

Curtin Malaysia offers Curtin University’s 4-year Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Applied Geology which combines a thorough grounding in theoretical and practical geology with technical and commercial skills.

In the first year of the course, students get a basic foundation in chemistry, physics, mathematics, scientific communication and computer skills, and an introductory to geology. This is followed in the second year by studies focused on developing theoretical, laboratory and field skills required to understand geological processes.

Meanwhile, in the third year, they will undergo comprehensive studies of all applied disciplines of geology, and in the final (honours) year, they will focus on writing an independent dissertation and take courses in geoscience professional practice and petroleum engineering.

The Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Applied Geology is one of the popular science courses at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science. It offers graduates good career prospects in a variety of roles such as petroleum geologists, environmental geologists and mining geologists, as well as in numerous industries, including oil and gas, construction and mining.

The course is recognised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), Australian Institute of Geoscientists, Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Geological Society of Australia, and International Association of Hydrogeologists.

A student examining fossils embedded in the Miri Hospital Outcrop.

Students at the Airport Road Outcrop.

Associate lecturer in applied geology Vivian Dayong.