This degree attracts students who are curious about geologic hazards, the evolution of the Earth, and what lies beneath the landscape. The program incorporates fieldwork, laboratory experience, and specialized computer programs that help unveil the secrets of the Earth’s infrastructure.
Beginning fall 2024, students can graduate under a redesigned and unified Geology BS degree program. Please note that emphasis areas will no longer be offered for the Geology BS degree after summer 2024.
Do earthquakes, landslides, and tsunamis intrigue you? Are you fascinated by volcanoes, canyons, and dinosaurs? Want a career that keeps you grounded while letting you travel through time? Then consider a BS in Geology from Northern Arizona University. Here, you can study nature most dramatic events and discover where precious resources like water and minerals are found, and why.
As you study, you can also learn more about careers in geoscience research, resource discovery and management, and education. You will experience an interdisciplinary approach to earth science, and will gain critical skills with field and analytical techniques. You'll find plenty of opportunities to work on faculty research projects and be encouraged to design your own studies, too.
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.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
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 |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-S | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
| Emphasis or Concentration Required | An emphasis or concentration is required for this major. |
Purpose Statement
The Geology program in SESES develops an interdisciplinary base of knowledge that students use to understand the physical and biological history of the Earth and the evidence for that history. A distinguishing characteristic of geology is that it includes deep time in its understanding of terrestrial and solar system processes.
The Geology program is based on a strong foundation of physics, chemistry, and mathematics that provides an underpinning for the students as they move through the program and start to develop an appreciation for the complexities of interconnected Earth systems and their physical and chemical processes. Students work in field and lab environments, using the scientific method to develop an understanding of Earth materials and to synthesize information from diverse sources and methods to interpret the geological history of the Earth and the processes that occur on and below its surface. This includes the analysis of topographic maps 40 and remote sensing images using GIS tools to study the three-dimensional geometry of rock units, as well as geochemical and geophysical data obtained in the field and laboratory.
The three emphases within the program allow the students to develop a deeper understanding of specific fields within the subject and to prepare themselves for a range of professional opportunities. These enable them to explore the use of a range of geophysical and geochemical data and understand how to apply it to solve environmental and geotechnical problems. The program also provides experience in studying the interactions of humans with Earth systems using mathematical, physical, and chemical methods.
Student Learning Outcomes
Core Geology Outcomes
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
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).
You must be admitted to the program before you can enroll in any of the following courses: GLG 309, GLG 315, GLG 324, GLG 350W, GLG 435, GLG 440C, and GLG 470.
This major requires 69 - 88 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 69-97 units
Core Requirements (53-56 units)
*Students in the Applied Geology Emphasis may not select ENV 115 for this requirement.
**MAT 137 is required for students completing the Applied Geology or Geophysics Emphasis. Some employers and graduate programs may require the MAT 136 and MAT 137 pairing. Consult with your advisor.
Please note:
Please Note:
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.
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.
This program is available as an Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan wherein a student may start a master's degree while simultaneously completing their bachelor's degree.