2014-2015 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Geology - Program Description
For additional information about opportunities your college offers, please refer to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences section in this catalog.
Chair: Peterson. Professors: Mattox, Mekik, Videtich, Weber; Associate Professors: Cole, Colgan, Llerandi-Román; Miller, Peterson, Riemersma, Wampler; Affiliate Faculty: Heid.
Website: www.gvsu.edu/geology
Geology is the study of the earth - its composition, processes, and history. The great outdoors is the laboratory of geology, where one may study landforms, rock and mineral deposits, fossils, folds, faults, glaciers, groundwater, and the processes that have shaped the earth and that affect its inhabitants. Geology also provided context for understanding Earth's energy, water, and mineral resources. A relatively young science, geology continues on the threshold of new discovery as geoscientists explore the frontiers of the continents, oceans, atmosphere, and planets.
Degrees offered: B.S. in geology; B.S. in geology-chemistry; B.S. in earth science; minor in geology and earth science. Teaching certification (secondary) in earth science major and minor. Students seeking elementary teaching certification should review the integrated science major in the Grand Valley State University Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog. The B.S. degrees in geology and geology-chemistry prepare students for graduate study in the geological sciences and work in industry. As terminal degrees, they can lead to a variety of careers, including environmental technology, mineral and energy resource exploration, science writing, and business.
The B.S. degree in earth science prepares students to teach in the secondary grades. Michigan teacher certification also requires completion of the College of Education professional program and a minor area of study.
The minor program in geology is designed to provide a supportive second discipline for students in a variety of majors, including other sciences or engineering, anthropology, business, or law. The earth science minor is for students seeking certification as secondary school teachers, and is also a suitable minor for such majors as anthropology, geography, and natural resources management.
The following programs are available: