Geological and Earth Sciences

Overview

Geological and earth sciences programs teach people about the physical makeup and history of Earth.

Geological and earth science programs include topics such as:

Geomorphology
Chemistry of rocks and soils
Map reading and creating
Volcanology
Glaciology
Geostatistics
Geophysical principles
Field and laboratory research methods

Concentrations

In geological and earth science programs, students may be able to specialize in:

Geochemistry and petrology
Paleontology

Schools

Many community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in geological and Earth sciences. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. Students may work as a lab technician with an associate degree, or transfer to a college or university for further study.

Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in geological and Earth sciences. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study. With a bachelor's degree, students are prepared for entry-level work as a field technician or research assistant.

Many universities offer graduate degrees in geological and Earth sciences. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree. A PhD degree is required for most research positions and some government agencies.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

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Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Advanced Chemistry courses
Advanced Physics courses
Basic Computer
Calculus
Computer Science and Programming
Earth Science
General Computer Applications
Geology
Pre-Calculus
Technical Writing

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor’s degree in geology or a related science, good grades, and good test scores.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General
Statement of research interest and personal goals
Letters of recommendation
Personal interview

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Calculus
Chemistry
English Composition
Geochemistry
Geophysics
Historical Geology
Igneous/Metamorphic Petrology
Introduction to Computer Science
Linear Differential Equations
Mineralogy
Paleontology
Physics
Principles of Geology
Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
Structural Geology

No matter where you go to school, you're likely to take a set of "core" courses similar to the list above. Once you've completed those courses, you can take advanced courses that focus on a specific area of geology.

Graduate Program Courses

Geology is a broad field. Graduate students usually focus on one area of study. Typical courses vary by specialty. A list of common graduate requirements is below:

Required courses
Fieldwork
Thesis (master's degree)
Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

Many schools offer or require a summer field camp. This is an opportunity to get hands-on experience in mapping, sampling, and field geology. Some schools also require an independent research project.

Many jobs in this field require a lot of writing and clear communication. Taking writing and speaking courses will develop your communication skills.

Knowledge of a second language can be helpful, as many jobs require foreign travel.

Some geoscientists spend a large part of their time conducting field research in remote locations. Others work in labs or offices.

Some states require professional licensing or registration.