Department of Geological Sciences (GEOL)

Welcome to the Department of Geological Sciences

The Department of Geological Sciences focuses on teaching the fundamentals of Earth science, including the scientific method, the ways in which these Earth systems interact with each other, and how humans are currently affecting these systems. Our faculty strive to incorporate current scientific problems into the curriculum, including courses on natural hazards (i.e., earthquakes, wildfire and landslides) and paleoclimatology, in addition to core courses in geology and geophysics. We strive to prepare our students for a diversity of careers, including resource management, education, geotechnical engineering, environmental remediation and energy production, as well as postgraduate study.

Get Involved With Geological Sciences

Undergraduate Programs

B.A. Environmental Science

This degree provides a strong foundation in the major disciplines of environmental and Earth sciences upon which students can layer relevant coursework in other related fields to prepare for careers that integrate environmental science with policy, public awareness, K through 12 education, and resource and risk evaluations.

B.S. Geology - Geology Option

This option provides the most flexibility, preparing students for a full range of technical careers in geoscience and for advanced studies in graduate school. It can be specialized toward different branches of geosciences by the appropriate choices of elective courses. The B.S. Honors Program is available for this option.

B.S. Geology - Geophysics Option

This option provides the necessary preparation in mathematics and physics to succeed in geoscience applications that require strong backgrounds in these associated disciplines. This option well prepares students for technical careers in geophysics or for advanced studies in graduate school. The B.S. Honors Program is available for this option.

Minor in Geology

This is designed for students who are interested in Earth Sciences, but with a major in another department. For example, majors in other sciences, mathematics, engineering and business often find employment in environmental, resource-related and energy-related industries. For these majors, the Geology minor broadens the individual’s understanding of the Earth Sciences and how they relate to human endeavors.

Graduate Programs

M.S. Geology - Geology Option

The Master of Science program has two options: Geology and Geophysics. These programs are designed to: (1) train individuals with the competence required by the geological profession for employment in industry and government agencies; (2) enable promising students to attain a level of knowledge and research ability necessary for admission to and success in Ph.D. programs; and (3) provide depth and breadth of knowledge, laboratory teaching experience and fundamental research skills essential to students planning to teach geology at the community college level.