Geology Undergraduate Program Overview

Geologists gather and interpret data about the Earth to better the quality of human life. By nature, geology is a multidisciplinary study of Earth processes, materials, and history. Geologists often work in the field, quantify in the lab, travel, puzzle-solve, and have a deep appreciation and understanding of the physical world around us.  Below are just a few tasks of the professional geologist:

• locate and recover natural resources (water, energy, minerals)
• address environmental problems related to sustainability, urbanization, pollution, and waste disposal
• reduce loss associated with Earth hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and landslides.
• describe global cycles that impact climate, ecological systems, and resource supplies

Regional, national, and international job opportunities in the Earth sciences exist. Organizations that employ geologists include energy companies, federal and state governmental agencies (e.g., U.S. Geological Survey, NASA, Environmental Protection Agency, National Park Service), colleges and universities, museums, national laboratories, and environmental consulting firms. As of 2012, starting median salaries for Geologists are around $45,000 with mid-career pay over $80K.  Forbes recently included Geology in one of the 15 most valuable majors.

The Department of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences offers several degree options: a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Geology with multiple emphasis areas and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Geology .