Geology

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
  • Minor

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in geology prepares students for careers in the geosciences, including environmental consulting, water resources, engineering geology, natural hazards mitigation, and mineral or energy resources.

Program Offerings at Grand Valley

We provide a broad and rigorous curriculum, including field, laboratory, classroom, and research experiences to best prepare our majors for a broad range of geoscience-related career opportunities. A minor is also offered. Visit www.gvsu.edu/geology for details.

Coursework

The program consists of coursework in the geosciences, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and an approved summer field course. Some of the subjects in the curriculum are:

  • Earth history
  • Engineering geology
  • Geographic information systems
  • Geomorphology
  • Hydrogeology
  • Oceanography
  • Paleontology
  • Plate tectonics

Career Options

While many graduates of the geology program pursue graduate degrees, a B.S. in geology is useful in obtaining a job in:

  • Resource exploration
  • Environmental remediation
  • Engineering geology
  • Environmental law and policy
  • Science writing
  • Natural hazards
  • Museum work
  • Federal, state, and local agencies

Why Study Geology at Grand Valley?

In addition to knowledgeable, accomplished faculty, the geology department provides an excellent learning community and invaluable learning experiences outside the classroom.

  • Students often take part in field studies and research where they can apply their geological knowledge in real world situations.
  • Individually mentored research opportunities are available to our undergraduate students that are usually only offered to graduate students at research type universities.
  • Our students frequently attend and/or present their work at national, regional, or state professional meetings.
  • The Geology Club meets regularly and organizes events such as on-campus speakers, field experiences, and attendance at local, regional and national conferences.

For More Information

Department of Geology
www.gvsu.edu/geology
Admissions Office
www.gvsu.edu/admissions

“Grand Valley is very student-oriented in everything from lectures to labs to advising, so I get to know almost every student I have. I feel like I make a connection to students.”

PATRICIA VIDETICH, PH.D.
PROFESSOR OF GEOLOGY

“We are interested in developing you as an individual, both as a scientist and as a productive and informed citizen. We mentor you and continue to care about you and your career after you leave Grand Valley.”

PATRICK M. COLGAN, PH.D.
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF GEOLOGY

View all Academic Programs offered by Grand Valley State University