2015-2016

Geology, Bachelor of Science

School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability

College of Engineering, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

This degree attracts students who are curious about geologic hazards, the evolution of the Earth, and what lies beneath the landscape. The program incorporates field-work, laboratory experience, and specialized computer programs that help unveil the secrets of the Earth’s infrastructure.

  • Available Emphasis Areas:
  • Applied Geology - Emphasis (beginning Fall 2016) (ending Summer 2024)
  • Environmental Geology - Emphasis (ending Summer 2016)
  • Geophysics - Emphasis (ending Summer 2024)
  • Hydrogeology - Emphasis (ending Summer 2016)
  • Paleontology - Emphasis (ending Summer 2024)

  • To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.

    • All of Northern Arizona University's diversity, liberal studies, junior-level writing, and capstone requirements.
    • All requirements for your specific academic plan(s).
    • At least 30 units of upper-division courses, which may include transfer work.
    • At least 30 units of coursework taken through Northern Arizona University, of which at least 18 must be upper-division courses (300-level or above). This requirement is not met by credit-by-exam, retro-credits, transfer coursework, etc.
    • A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on all work attempted at Northern Arizona University.

    The full policy can be viewed here.

In addition to University Requirements:

  • At least 74 units of major requirements including 11-24 units of concentration or emphasis requirements

  • Up to 9 units of major prefix courses may be used to satisfy Liberal Studies requirements; these same courses may also be used to satisfy major requirements.

  • Elective courses, if needed, to reach an overall total of at least 120 units.

Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

Minimum Units for Completion 120
Highest Mathematics Required MAT 137
Additional Admission Requirements Required
Fieldwork Experience/Internship Required
Research Optional
University Honors Program Optional
Progression Plan Link Not Available

Additional Admission Requirements
  • You will be automatically admitted to Northern Arizona University's geology program if you:

  • If you don’t meet these requirements, you must apply to the program by writing a letter of application, supported by current transcripts, before entering GLG 309. Send your application to the program coordinator of the Geology Program (see School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability for more information).

Major Requirements
  • Take the following 74 - 98 units:

    Core Requirements (63-64 units)

    • The PHY 161 and PHY 262 pairing is recommended, and is specifically required for those who choose the Hydrogeology Emphasis. PHY 262L is not required.

    • GLG 490 is not required, but is highly recommended
    • GLG 490 is, however, required for the program honors
  • Concentration or Emphasis Requirements (Select One):
    • General Geology Concentration (11 units)
      Please note that if the General Geology Concentration is chosen, the diploma will indicate simply BS Geology.
General Electives
  • Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.

    You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.

    We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.

Additional Information
  • Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.