Bachelor of Science in Geology

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This degree is intended to prepare a student completely for graduate study in geology.  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)
  • A summer geological field camp in an approved program (6 weeks intensive field study in geologic mapping)

Related Field Courses:

  • CHEM 111 and 112
  • MATH 121-122 (Calculus)
  • PHYS 121-122 or PHYS 211-212

Total: 60 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 BS 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 BS degree (6 Geology courses as listed above, 2 science electives, a summer field course, plus the 6 courses in the Related Fields).

Suggested electives for Environmental Geology:

  • GEOL 325: Environmental Planning

  • GEOL 416: Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

  • GEOL 230: Environmental Pollution