The Geosciences are among the most important fields of study in our highly technological world. It brings together a study of our energy resources, mineral deposits, land utilization, water resources, the atmosphere, planetary exploration, and the universe into one complex and interrelated discipline. Earth scientists are constantly examining each of these areas relative to mankind’s present and future needs in an attempt to maintain the quality of life on this planet Earth.
The primary objectives of the geosciences curriculum are:
1. To prepare students as professional geologists for jobs with the petroleum industries, regulatory agencies, civil service positions, professional consulting, and for the continuation of studies in graduate school.
2. To prepare motivated, innovative, competent, and professional earth science teachers.
3. To give non-geoscience science majors a stimulating and comprehensive background in the earth sciences to prepare them to fulfill their role as knowledgeable and informed citizens who will direct the future growth of this country.
Geosciences is a small department focused on providing students with a strong fundamental background in the geosciences. In addition to the strong background provided through classroom and laboratory experiences, Geosciences curricula emphasize getting students out into the field during fall and spring break field trips. Another emphasis is engaging students in meaningful geoscience research under the guidance of a faculty research mentor. A wide range of research opportunities exist, supported by a variety of equipment and analytical instrumentation that are available for student use. Ultimately, all of our majors present the results of their research in a senior seminar.
The Geosciences program offers two degree programs (BA in Geology, BS in Geology), a minor, and a concentration.
Baccalaureate Degree Programs
Bachelor of Science (BS) with a major in Geology
The Geology BS program is designed for students who want to combine a solid background in geology with other science and mathematics coursework. This degree program prepares students for work in a variety of fields. Although the geology background is the same for the Geology BS as for the Geology BA, some employers and graduate schools may look more favorably on the BS degree because of the stronger background in “outside” science and mathematics.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a major in Geology
The Geology BA program is designed for students who want to combine a solid background in geology with more flexible options for additional coursework. Students completing a BA degree complete two concentrations or a minor or another major to go along with their major. The Geology BA program gives students greater flexibility in terms of the areas of focus they want to combine with geology.
Geoscience Minors
Geology Minor
The Geology minor provides non-geology majors with a solid background in geology. It can be a good option for students majoring in another science. There is also some flexibility in this minor in terms of upper-level coursework.
Concentration
The Geology concentration provides a basic background in geology. It can typically be completed by taking three Geology courses.
Geology Program Outcomes
Student Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes
| Student Learning Goals |
Student Learning Outcomes |
| SLG 1: Understand important facts and concepts in the sub-disciplines essential to geology. |
SLO 1: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to historical geology. |
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SLO 2: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to mineralogy. |
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SLO 3: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to paleontology. |
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SLO 4: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to sedimentation and stratigraphy. |
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SLO 5: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to geomorphology. |
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SLO 6: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to hydrogeology. |
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SLO 7: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to igneous and metamorphic petrology. |
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SLO 8: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to structural geology. |
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SLO 9: Recall key facts and be able to apply important concepts related to plate tectonics. |
| SLG 2: Understand how to gather and apply the information needed to solve geologic problems. |
SLO 1: Be able to collect field data and apply them to solving geologic problems. |
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SLO 2: Be able to collect, properly manipulate, and present laboratory data, and apply them to solving geologic problems. |
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SLO 3: Be able to locate geologic literature relevant to solving geologic problems. |
| SLG 3: Plan, carry out, and present the results of independent research that applies concepts, field and/or laboratory data, and relevant literature to solving a geologic problem. |
SLO 1: Develop a proposal that details a sound approach to carrying out a geologic research project. |
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SLO 2: Effectively carry out an independent research project that addresses a geologic problem. |
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SLO 3: Effectively communicate the results of their independent research in writing. |
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SLO 4: Effectively communicate the results of their independent research during an oral presentation. |
