Academic Programs / Majors

Geology

Program Details

• Major: Geology
• Degree Program: Geology
• Program Web Site
• Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Degree Designation: Bachelor's (B.S.)

Program Description

The science of geology is the study of the Earth: its composition; the various physical and chemical changes that occur on its surface and in its interior; and the history of the planet and its life forms from its origin to the present.

Consideration of mineral and energy resources, the ecology and evolution of life, plate tectonics, water supplies, environmental protection, and preventive planning for natural disasters are also examined in the Geology Program.

Students are encouraged to pursue hands-on experience in their field. Laboratories associated with geomorphology, structural geology, sedimentology, paleontology, mineralogy, and other areas are available.

Field studies are stressed, with geologic mapping in South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana; studies of sedimentary geology in Spain, Ireland, and the Florida Keys; and examinations of processes acting on the Earth’s surface in West Virginia. Departmental and College assistance is available for the Geological Field Camp.

The Geology Program maintains a partnership with the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey, which is located in Morgantown. We have also established strong ties with both energy and environmental industries to train marketable students and produce research relevant for industrial needs.

For all geology majors, eight credit hours in chemistry, eight credit hours in physics, and ten to 16 credit hours in mathematics and statistics are required, in addition to geology course work.

Candidates for the bachelor of science degree are required to take a total of 40 credit hours of geology courses. Depending on the major field of geologic studies selected, students are encouraged to choose supporting courses in fields such as mining or petroleum engineering, biology, geography, soil mechanics, and computer science.

Geology majors receive a broad education in several areas of the discipline so they may make an informed decision concerning specialization if a graduate degree is sought. More importantly, flexibility in seeking employment in a variety of geology specializations is possible because the student has a broad base of knowledge in all areas of geology. During the senior year, undergraduates may use their geology electives to begin a specialization.

Before graduating with a BS degree in Geology each student will be asked to complete a geology assessment test on which he/she must achieve a score of at least 60% before graduating.

Career Profile

Geologists and geophysicists hold approximately 85,000 jobs nationwide. In addition, nearly 10,000 geoscientists hold geology, geophysics, and oceanography faculty positions in colleges and universities. About half of all geoscientists are employed by energy and environmental companies. Many other geologists work for consulting firms and business services, especially engineering firms, which often provide services to oil and gas companies. The federal government employs approximately 10,000 geologists, geophysicists, oceanographers, and hydrologists.

English Language Proficiency

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Please see Office of Admissions - English Language Proficiency for more information.

Apply Now

Prospective students should apply online at:
apply.wvu.edu.

Accreditation

WVU is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.