Geology - BS, BA

About This Degree

Geology is the part of broader Earth Science that examines the solid Earth, its composition, history, structure, and how it interacts with the hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere.

In this study of how Earth works, geoscientists integrate knowledge of biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, and physics. Geologists help us gain energy, mineral, and water resources and evaluate and mitigate hazards due to earthquakes, floods, landslides, and volcanic eruptions, as well as waste disposal and global environmental change.

Students receive a BS by completing all required courses in the major. To receive a BA, students must also gain proficiency in one or more foreign languages.

Emphases:

Students may choose an emphasis in one of the following areas.

Applied Environmental Geoscience:

Applied environmental geoscience is an interdisciplinary program, with a broader range of coursework than the traditional degree in geology. Students take geology courses and study the earth’s history, composition, and structure, but also take courses in areas such as watershed sciences, soils, biology, statistics, and GIS/remote sensing. This degree is for students interested in studying the geosciences, having a multidisciplinary degree and going on to careers in environmental fields.

Geology Professional:

The Geology Professional emphasis builds upon the core geology curriculum with courses tailored for learning the scientific, hands-on, and professional skills necessary in the modern workforce.

Hydrogeology-Engineering Geology:

Hydrogeology is the subdiscipline within geology that deals with the distribution and movement of groundwater in the soil and rocks of the earth’s crust. Students in the specialization take engineering courses in addition to their geology coursework as they study the engineering of groundwater.