The Major in Geology provides an academic and practical basis for diverse professional Earth science, environmental, and other careers. The curriculum encompasses a strong geosciences core, and includes integrating field studies in the Rocky Mountains and elsewhere with on-campus classroom and laboratory studies. Students complete courses in mathematics, physical sciences, communications, and the liberal arts to develop effective quantitative, decision making, and communications skills. Four concentrations are offered to allow focus on specialized career interests: Geology, Environmental Geology, Geophysics, and Hydrogeology.

Learning Objectives

Students will demonstrate:

  1. A solid foundation in the physical sciences and broad understanding of geological processes.
  2. Application of field and classroom scientific reasoning skills to data analysis and problem solving in the geosciences, both individually and in teams.
  3. An awareness of sociopolitical, economic factors, and ethical practices and standards relevant to professional careers in geosciences.

Potential Occupations

Many opportunities exist for geosciences graduates in the private and public sectors across a wide range of societally important and satisfying careers. Geoscientists are employed in environmental science and management, energy resources, natural hazards, water resources and management, construction services, mining, energy, computer software, insurance, and many other industries. Private employers in consulting as well as federal, state, county, and municipal agencies employ geoscientists. Schools, colleges, universities, National Laboratories, and private research firms employ geoscientists in a wide variety of positions, and by obtaining teaching certification, graduates may become primary and secondary educators. Graduates who go on to pursue advanced degrees in geosciences enjoy a strong disciplinary base for diverse areas of graduate study in environmental studies, energy, seismology, hydrology, meteorology, oceanography, geomorphology, and space sciences.  

Concentrations