Coursework in earth science can include elements of the land, water, and air on Earth and beyond. It may concentrate on knowledge for scientific research, as well as applications to understand and improve life on the planet.

Hong Kong, found on the south coast of China, the country is one of the two Special Administrative Regions in the Republic of China. Hong Kong's higher education is placed in the England’s structure as well as international systems. It is managed by the country's Education Bureau.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.