Bachelor of Arts in Geology

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This degree is intended to offer a strong background in geology with enough additional work to prepare a student for geology-related jobs, graduate study in related fields, environmental work or study, or education.  Requirements include completion of an introductory course sequence, a core of upper-level courses in geology and a selection of additional courses from those specified by the department. Course work in the related fields of chemistry, mathematics, physics and biology is also required.
 
Requirements
  • GEOL 121: Geology and the Environment or GEOL 141, Oceanography
  • GEOL 122: Historical Geology
  • GEOL 311: Mineralogy (Prerequisite: CHEM 111)
  • GEOL 312: Petrology (Prerequisite: CHEM 112)
  • GEOL 335: Structural Geology
  • GEOL 415: Paleontology
  • Two approved science electives (in addition to the related field courses below)

Related Field Courses:

  • One Math course above the 110 level
  • Three additional courses from among the following:
    • Chemistry 111, 112
    • Math 112, 115, 121, 122 
    • Physics 121, 122 or Physics 211, 212
    • Education Studies 410 or 420

Total: 48 credit hours minimum

The Senior Thesis (Geology 470 or 490) is recommended for students interested in independent research with one or more of the faculty, and the thesis is accepted as one of the departmental electives. The work involved must be original, and the final thesis is subjected to rigorous review and oral presentations before acceptance. The Senior Thesis with Honors (Geology 490) is required of those who wish to graduate with departmental honors.

The track in Environmental Geology:

Students pursuing a BA in Geology may opt for a track in Environmental Geology. This track provides a strong background in geology, but is designed for students interested in environmental consulting or in pursuing graduate study in an environmental field.

Requirements:

  • GEOL 121: Geology and the Environment or GEOL 141: Oceanography
  • GEOL 122: Historical Geology
  • GEOL 233: Hydrology
  • GEOL 340: Images of the Earth: GIS and Remote Sensing

Plus two of the following:

  • GEOL 311: Mineralogy (Chem111, prerequisite)
  • GEOL 312: Petrology (Chem. 112, prerequisite)
  • GEOL 335: Structural Geology                                                     
  • GEOL 415: Paleontology

Plus other stated requirements for the BA degree (six Geology courses as listed above, two science electives, plus the four courses in the Related Fields).

Suggested electives for Environmental Geology:

  • GEOL 325: Environmental Planning

  • GEOL 416: Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

  • GEOL 230: Environmental Pollution