Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

School of Earth and Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science


Academic Information

Available Emphasis Areas:

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.

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

School of Earth and Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science


Careers

What Can I Do with a Bachelor of Science in Geology?

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.

Career opportunities that might be pursued:
  • County, state, and federal agencies
  • Earth Science Education
  • Engineering geology
  • Environmental consulting firms
  • Geospatial analyst
  • Mining
  • Science journalism and communication

With further education, one of these paths is possible:
  • Data Science
  • Energy industry professional
  • Environmental Law and Policy
  • Geobiologist
  • Geochemist
  • Geophysicist
  • Hydrogeologist
  • Paleontologist
  • Professional geologist

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

School of Earth and Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science


University Requirements

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

School of Earth and Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science


Overview

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

Paleontology Emphasis
Applied Geology Emphasis
Geophysics Emphasis

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

School of Earth and Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science


Details

Additional Admission Requirements
Major Requirements
General Electives
Additional Information
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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences

School of Earth and Sustainability

Geology, Bachelor of Science


Campus Availability

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