Apr 20, 2024  
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Geology Major, BS


The BS in geology prepares students for graduate school and careers in the geosciences and other scientific fields. The program includes required courses across the breadth of the geosciences and allows for focused study in Earth structure and tectonics, hazards and resources, Earth materials, or climate and surface processes. The core required geoscience courses are partnered with courses in allied sciences and math and culminate in a capstone field experience, thus preparing students for graduate school and a variety of careers in the geosciences and beyond.

Program Learner Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Present an analysis of data and interpretations orally and in a professionally written report
  • Critically interpret published scientific literature; differentiate data from interpretation
  • Interpret representations of data, including graphs, maps, cross-sections
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of standard geologic reference tools and resources, e.g. library, web, computer databases
  • Calculate quantitative problems in the discipline
  • Demonstrate knowledge of core areas of geology

Required Course Credits: 52


Department-Approved Electives Credits: 17


Select electives from the list that total at least 17 credits. The groups of courses shown below are meant to offer guidance to students who wish to specialize in a sub-discipline or take courses across the breadth of the geological sciences.

General Geoscience


Earth Structure and Tectonics


Research and Teaching


A maximum of four credits of research and teaching can count towards major electives.

Allied Science Requirements for Bachelor of Science Degree Credits: 30


Total Credits: 99


College and Department Information


Geological Sciences Department  
College of the Sciences