Introduction
Geology is the study of the planet Earth, the materials of which
it is made, the processes that act on these materials, the
products formed, and the history of the planet and its life
forms since its origin. Geology considers the physical forces
that act within and on the Earth, the chemistry of its constituent
materials, and the biology of its past inhabitants as revealed
by fossils. The knowledge thus obtained is used to aid in the
discovery of economic minerals, fossil fuels, and ground-water
resources in the Earth's crust and to identify geologic hazards
associated with the mobile forces of a dynamic Earth. Thus
geologists have a role in water research, environmental studies,
engineering geology, waste management, land-use surveys, marine
geoscience, and natural hazards investigations, as well as
the traditional areas of oil, gas, and mineral exploration
and development.
Mission
The mission of the Department of Geology, as an integral
part of the College of Science and Utah State University,
is:
! to provide training for future professional geologists directly through high-quality
instruction and research involvement in geology. The department recognizes
the critical role of other departments in providing supporting courses in areas
such as chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, computer science, and engineering;
! to contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the field of
geology through research activities in selected areas of expertise;
! to provide supporting courses and research services for professional programs
in such areas as natural resources, soil science, landscape architecture & environmental
planning, science education, civil & environmental engineering, watershed
science, and physical geography;
! to enhance the liberal education of university students from other fields
by providing high quality instruction in geology and developing an appreciation
of the geology and natural resources of the state of Utah; and
! to promote an understanding of geology among the general public and to educate
the public with respect to the potential impact of geology on everyday life
through service to individual citizens, community groups, and public schools.
Response
The Department of Geology responds to its mission through
programs of formal instruction at the B.S. and M.S. levels,
research activities in selected areas of expertise, and
extension teaching and community service activities. The
obligation of the department, concurrent with this response,
is to provide the optimum environment for teaching, research,
and service and to support the professional growth and development
of its faculty.
