Curtin Malaysia geology students explore Miri’s natural wonders in hands-on field trip

Miri, Sarawak – 1 October 2024 – First-year Applied Geology students at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently swapped classrooms for nature, as they embarked on a field excursion to some of Miri’s most iconic geological landmarks. The trip provided a rare opportunity for the students to engage in hands-on learning at geological sites rich in history and scientific significance.

The excursion was led by the Head of the Department of Applied Sciences at Curtin Malaysia, Professor M.V. Prasanna, and Programme Coordinator for Applied geology, Associate Professor Dominique Dodge-Wan, and their staff.

Under the guidance of the lecturers, the students explored the geological significance such as rock types, structural deformation and fossil records in the Height’s Residence and the Jalan Mukah outcrops. These outcrops revealed layers of rock that tell the story of the geological history of this region from tectonic movements to fossilised remains of prehistoric life.

“There’s no substitute for real-world experience when it comes to understanding geology,” said Professor Prasanna. “Field trips like these not only reinforce concepts learned in the classroom but also allow students to develop practical skills that are crucial for their future careers.”

Throughout the excursion, the students were fully immersed in activities that brought their coursework to life. Armed with field workbooks, they conducted grain size analysis, identified minerals, and gathered structural data for mapping such as bedding planes and faults. The day was capped off with engaging quizzes and Q&A sessions, allowing students to consolidate their newfound knowledge in a fun, interactive way.

The field trip also fostered close interaction between students and faculty, creating an environment where learning felt more like an exciting adventure than a formal exercise. “It was fascinating to see the rocks we’ve studied up close, and the field trip really made the subject come alive for us,” said one student.

Curtin Malaysia’s three-year Bachelor of Applied Geology programme is designed to give students a comprehensive education in geological sciences. Offering units like Sedimentology and Stratigraphy, Mineralogy, Petrology, Geophysics, Geographic Information System (GIS), Structural Geology, Basin Analysis, Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology, as well as a Geoscience Project, the programme equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers in the oil and gas, mining, hydrogeology, and environmental sectors.

Fieldwork, like the recent excursion, mirrors the kind of hands-on experience they will encounter in the professional world.

For aspiring geologists, Curtin Malaysia provides the perfect blend of academic rigour and real-world application. Graduates of the programme are highly sought after, particularly in industries like oil and gas, geotechnical engineering, and remote sensing.

Learn more about Curtin Malaysia’s Applied Geology program and other study options by visiting curtin.edu.my/study/undergraduate/bachelor-applied-geology/ or follow Curtin Malaysia on social media for the latest updates.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Associate Professor Dominique Dodge-Wan, Prof. M.V. Prasanna, and staff with the first-year Applied Geology students in a group photo

Students engage in hands-on activities, documenting their geological findings and mapping structural features