Curtin Malaysia geology students gain real-world field experience across Sarawak

Miri, Sarawak – 20 May 2026 – Students from the Applied Geology Department at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) are stepping beyond the classroom and into Sarawak’s rich geological landscapes through immersive field trips designed to prepare them for careers in the geoscience industry.

As part of the university’s Bachelor of Science in Applied Geology programme, students recently took part in a series of hands-on field excursions across northwest Sarawak, gaining first-hand exposure to geological formations and field techniques essential to professional geologists.

Conducted in March and April, the field trips brought students from various year groups to key geological sites, including the Lambir Formation near Tusan, the Setap Shale near Bekenu, and the Nyalau Formation in the Bintulu region.

Led by Associate Professor Dominique Dodge-Wan and Head of the Applied Geology Department Professor M.V. Prasanna, the excursions form a core component of several field-intensive units such as Field Geology Techniques, Geological Field Mapping, and Field Studies of Sedimentary Basins.

The programme is designed to equip students with industry-relevant technical and analytical skills through real-world learning environments.

According to Dr. Dodge-Wan, students are trained in both basic and advanced geological field methods, including rock examination and description, outcrop mapping, and structural measurements.

“Field-based learning is essential in geology because it allows students to connect theoretical concepts with real geological features,” she said.

“Students’ skills are assessed through Authentic Assessments that closely reflect industry practices and expectations. With continuous guidance from academic staff, the field trips progressively train students to become confident and autonomous field geologists before they graduate.”

Beyond technical training, the excursions also expose students to unique geological formations that deepen their understanding of Earth’s history and geological processes.

Among the highlights was the opportunity for students to observe the angular unconformity between tilted Miocene rocks and overlying Pleistocene sands near Beraya south of Miri, a striking geological feature that reinforces concepts taught in the classroom.

Dr. Dodge-Wan added that such experiences not only enhance students’ academic understanding but also strengthen their enthusiasm and appreciation for geology.

By integrating practical fieldwork into its curriculum, Curtin Malaysia continues to reinforce its commitment to producing highly skilled, industry-ready graduates equipped to contribute to the growing geoscience and energy sectors in Malaysia and beyond.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Students examining bedding plane orientation near Bintulu as part of their geology field training.

Second-year students recording field observations during a geology excursion.

Third-year students and academic staff examining rock formations at a roadside outcrop near Bekenu.

Third-year students studying tilted rock formations beneath a Pleistocene unconformity near Beraya, south of Miri.