Bachelor of Science - Geology

Geology is the study of Earth’s materials, structures, and processes and how they have changed through time. This knowledge is applied to the exploration of natural resources such as metals, petroleum, and water; the understanding of natural hazards including earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides; the resolution of environmental contamination issues; and the investigation of Earth’s history to better understand the evolution of life and global climate change. Geologists are employed by natural resource companies, environmental consulting firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and universities. Core coursework provides a foundation in physical and historical geology, mineralogy and petrography, structural geology and plate tectonics, and sedimentology, paleontology, and stratigraphy. The degree program may be tailored to specific areas of interest through additional coursework in supporting sciences, mathematics, and engineering disciplines. Faculty members in the Department of Geosciences maintain active research programs covering a wide range of topics, including groundwater, pollution impacts, microbe–mineral interactions, environmental change, biodiversity, and remote sensing of buried structures. External funding and alumni support enable faculty to support student research, while the curriculum emphasizes a broad-based education that integrates both academic and applied aspects of geological and environmental sciences. Hands-on research is a central component of the program. Students apply state-of-the-art field and laboratory techniques to investigate geological and environmental issues in Ohio and around the world. Modern field equipment is used for computer-based mapping, while laboratory work involves analysis of the chemical, mineralogical, magnetic, biological, and physical properties of rock, sediment, and water samples. Many courses incorporate practical problem-solving experiences using field and laboratory methods. Field trips throughout Ohio and to locations such as the Bahamas, the Rocky Mountains, and the Adirondacks expose students to a wide range of geological environments. Individual research projects allow in-depth exploration of specific topics under the guidance of faculty mentors. Geology and environmental science students develop skills necessary for professional employment or graduate study through research-focused courses, paid laboratory assistantships, summer internships, and participation in a summer field camp in South Dakota and Wyoming. Student and faculty research has contributed to solving local environmental challenges, including evaluating the effects of dam removal along the Cuyahoga River, monitoring groundwater flow and contamination, mapping resources in regional parks, and conducting laboratory analyses for local industries. Prior to graduation, students are encouraged to produce a written research report to demonstrate scientific and analytical abilities to potential employers. Opportunities for professional engagement are available through student organizations such as the Geology Club and the student chapter of the Association of American Petroleum Geologists. A degree in geology offers diverse career paths. Geoscientists work in industries related to oil and gas, mining, and water resources; in private and government agencies focused on environmental studies; as independent consultants addressing issues such as water pollution and soil erosion; and in academic settings teaching and conducting research. Career opportunities for geoscientists continue to expand as governments and industries strengthen environmental protection policies, with graduates who possess hands-on experience through laboratories, internships, fellowships, or cooperative programs standing out in the job market.