In addition to the core courses listed below, students are encouraged to take additional courses in geology, mathematics, computer science, statistics, and the physical and biological sciences. Students planning professional careers in geology, including graduate study, should take at least two additional courses in mathematics beyond the requirements listed below, and would benefit from a minor in mathematics, physics, chemistry, or biology. Elective courses that best suit the student's career options are to be chosen in consultation with the undergraduate program director.
Declaration of major in geological sciences requires a grade of C or better in 01:460:101, or its equivalent, or a special permission of the undergraduate program director. Course schedules for each semester must be approved by the undergraduate program director prior to registration.
Foundation Courses
- 01:160:161 General Chemistry I (4)
- 01:160:162 General Chemistry II (4)
- 01:640:CALC1 (4)
- 01:640:CALC2 (4), or
01:640:250 Introductory Linear Algebra (3), or
01:960:211 Statistics (3)
- 01:750:193 Physics for the Sciences I (4), or
01:750:201 Extended General Physics (5), or
01:750:203 General Physics (3), or
01:750:205 General Physics Laboratory (1)
- 01:750:194 Physics for the Sciences II (4), or
01:750:202 Extended General Physics (5), or
01:750:204 General Physics (3), or
01:750:206 General Physics Laboratory (1)
Geological Sciences Core Courses
01:460:101 Introductory Geology (4)
01:460:301 Mineralogy (4)
01:460:302 Petrology (4)
01:460:303 Paleontology (4)
01:460:304 Introduction to Geochemistry (4)
01:460:306 Introduction to Geophysics (4)
01:460:340 Sedimentology (4)
01:460:341 Stratigraphy (4)
01:460:407 Structural Geology (4)
01:460:410 Field Geology (3) (see requirements below)
01:460:480 Major Events in Earth History (3) (Alternative: 01:460:476 History of the Earth System [3])
Field Requirement
All geology majors must take a minimum of 3 credits in field geology. Most students satisfy this requirement by taking an external field camp. Many geology departments offer external field camps. Ask the undergraduate director for guidance. An ideal time to do the field training is during the summer between junior and senior years.
