Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Earth Sciences, B.A. with a Specialization in Geology


Earth science is an interdisciplinary, applied science that explains how Earth’s interior, surface, and atmospheric processes operate in interconnected ways with each other and with life on spatial scales from microscopic to global and on temporal scales from fractions of a second to millions of years. Thus, the Earth sciences must be approached in an interdisciplinary manner in both the classroom and the field. The B.A. in Earth sciences includes a set of core courses that provide students with the necessary background in geology, chemistry, and physics or biology. Specializations in geology, environmental studies, and unique student-designed concentrations established with faculty approval near completion of the core, are available. The B.A. in Earth sciences pairs well with majors and minors across the university and provides a strong science-based major for those in preprofessional programs.

Requirements for the Major


A minimum of 42 credit hours with at least 25 credit hours in the Earth sciences. The number of support courses and total number of credit hours will depend on the specialization.

Geology Specialization (25 Credit Hours)


Total: 42 Credit Hours


Notes:

  • Experience with a modern scientific computing language and geographic information systems is essential and can be gained in a course such as GEOL 3359 - Computer Methods in Earth Sciences .
  • The requirements for the Earth sciences major are considered minimal. Students planning careers in the Earth sciences should take additional coursework according to the geoscience emphasis that best fits their goals. Students should consult a faculty adviser for suggestions.