Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Geology offers programs leading to the bachelor’s degree in geology and earth science, as well as studies in numerical modeling, geochemistry, glaciology, hydrogeology, engineering geology, planetary geology, and environmental geology.

The programs serve both majors in geology and earth science and non-majors: those who may wish to broaden their science background; those preparing to teach general or earth sciences or geology in elementary or secondary schools; and those preparing for a master’s or a doctoral degree.

Post-baccalaureate students (with a bachelor’s degree, not in geology) who wish to become professional geologists may complete this curriculum while doing both undergraduate and graduate work in geology.

Geologists are employed by government agencies at federal, state, county, and city levels; by independent consulting firms to work with engineers, architects and planners; in the construction, mining, and petroleum industries; and as teachers in elementary and high schools and at the college level.

Geologists who have graduated from PSU are employed as researchers in mitigation of environmental problems, assessment of ground and surface water resources, exploration, development and management of mineral and fuel resources, urban planning, GIS, evaluation of the effects of forest roads and quarries on watershed health, management of their own companies, and instruction at all educational levels.

Students majoring in geology and earth science should plan to complete the required mathematics, chemistry, and physics courses as early in their program as possible.