COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Geology requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours, structured to provide a balanced foundation in general education, scientific principles, and specialized geological knowledge. General Education Requirements account for 36 credit hours and are designed to develop students’ critical thinking, communication, quantitative reasoning, and broad intellectual skills, ensuring a well-rounded academic foundation. College of Arts & Sciences Requirements contribute 8 credit hours, providing additional exposure to core scientific and liberal arts disciplines that support the study of Earth sciences. The Geology Core Requirements, totaling 34 credit hours, deliver essential knowledge in fundamental areas such as physical and historical geology, mineralogy, petrography, structural geology, plate tectonics, sedimentology, paleontology, and stratigraphy. Students also complete 19 credit hours of Geology Electives, allowing for deeper exploration in specialized topics based on individual interests and career goals. Complementing these courses are 8 credit hours in Geology Math Requirements to ensure quantitative competence in data analysis and modeling, 7 credit hours in Geology Chemistry to support understanding of geochemical processes, and 8 credit hours in Geology Physics to develop insights into the physical forces and mechanics shaping Earth systems. Together, these requirements create a comprehensive program preparing graduates for careers in environmental consulting, natural resource management, government, academia, and advanced geological research.