Geology
Learn to describe, analyze, and explain the processes of the natural environment and the human cultural systems of the earth. This growing program is an excellent choice for those who enjoy the outdoors, are passionate about the environment, and have a strong aptitude for math, science, and chemistry.
Make Your Mark
Throughout the program, you'll gain a solid foundation in areas like physical geology, environmental geology, structural geology, hydrogeology, mineralogy, and metrology. These studies will help you to uncover the relations between people, places, cultures, and environments. You'll also be immersed in the fascinating world of digital tools and techniques. Through coursework and unique projects, you'll gain firsthand experience using computer graphics and applying geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze and present geologic data.
While at UWEC, you will be challenged to take what you've learned and put it into practice. As part of a required capstone, you'll choose between joining a student-faculty research project, preparing and presenting a department seminar, participating in an internship or enrolling in a field experience. Many geology majors choose to attend a three-week field course in southwestern Montana to fulfill this requirement. There, you'll explore advanced geologic field techniques, with an emphasis on the construction of geologic maps and cross-sections in deformed plutonic, volcanic, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Because of the broad-based nature of our geology programs, graduates find endless employment opportunities are available to them. You may go on to work as a geologist for environmental consulting firms conducting site investigations, help clients prevent unforeseen environmental impacts, or collect data to inform client decisions. No matter your chosen career, you'll have the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to do what you love.
Students may choose to pursue either the comprehensive geology bachelor's degree or the standard geology bachelor's degree. The comprehensive program is designed for those who are interested in careers as professional geologists, hydrogeologists, or geological engineers, or for those who desire strong preparation for graduate programs in geological sciences or engineering. The standard program is for those who are interested in a more broad training of the general sciences as well as the relationship between earth science and other sciences.
Program Details
The Geology and Environmental Science Department at UW-Eau Claire, along with the Materials Science and Engineering Center, houses state-of-the-art analytical equipment that is rarely found at undergraduate institutions. With nearly 100 unique pieces of high-tech instrumentation, here, you can analyze your field samples right on campus. From analytical geochemistry equipment to mineralogy and petrology equipment to the latest software used in the field — we have it all.
A nationally recognized strength of the geology program is the emphasis on learning — and using — field skills. Field experiences have taken Blugolds to British Columbia and Maine, and international coursework has been offered in Guatemala, Switzerland, and Argentina. A required three-week field course in West Texas and New Mexico will give you firsthand, professional experience and allow you to uncover your geological passions and interests.
First-year students interested in majoring in geology are able to apply for the Blugold Freshman Geology Scholarship. Two scholarships of $1,000 are awarded each year, thanks to UW-Eau Claire geology alumni who are interested in supporting the next generation of Blugold geologists.
Blugold Stories
After taking courses in minerology and economic deposits, Trevor Nelson found himself fascinated with mining and his enthusiasm led to an internship in Juneau, Alaska. Following graduation, he will begin working at the same mine where he interned as an exploratory geologist.
UWEC helped me develop into the person I am today. The Department of Geology and my faculty mentor have gone above and beyond to help me succeed. I began working on a student-faculty research project my junior year that ended up sending me to Alaska for a summer job/internship. The opportunity that UWEC gave me has helped shape my entire future and I finally know what I want to be when I grow up!
Geology majors at UWEC have amazing opportunities to work on real-world problems through their coursework, research, and internships. I’m amazed by how much the professors sincerely care about the students and make sure they get the most out of their time here.
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Where can the geology program lead me after graduation?
Endless career paths are available to comprehensive geology majors. Our grads go on to work in the environmental industry, the mining industry, the petroleum industry, regulatory agencies such as the DNR and EPA, consulting, government, research, law and education. They are also well-prepared for graduate programs in geological sciences or engineering.
Students who choose to pursue a major in the standard geology major are able to design a degree plan that best fits their career goals. This may include incorporating business courses or interests in creative writing, art, or photography.
No matter your path, geology careers are on the rise. And as the need for energy, environmental protection, and responsible land and resource management grows, so does the demand for geoscientists.
Example Careers
- Geologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Environmental geologist
- Petroleum geologist
- Mine captain
- Resource lawyer
- Geochemist
- Environmental manager
Recent Graduates
CMT Technician
Braun Intertec Corp.
Environmental Specialist
Cedar Corp.
Geologist
Smart Sand Inc.
Operation Geologist
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
Assistant Scientist
Tetra Tech
Engineering Geologist
Call & Nicholas, Inc.
Curriculum within the geology major and minor is rooted in experiential learning. Rigorous field-based programming blends traditional geological field skills with modern technology and computational science, preparing you well for the real world. Students can expect to use the same state-of-the-art tools, technology and software that professionals are using in the field today, including field-computer systems, GIS mapping software, and high-resolution GPS equipment.
Here are a few courses in Geology at UW-Eau Claire.
GEOL 102
Oceanography
Survey of the world oceans with emphasis on geologic processes. Also includes chemical, physical, and biological aspects of the sea. Investigates human interaction with the marine environment.
GEOL 122
The Future of Global Energy
Examination of current and future energy sources and alternatives with respect to supply, demand, recovery, distribution, environmental impact and sustainability and the relationship between energy and social, economic and political systems and public policy.
GEOL 301
Earth Resources and Sustainability
Origin, distribution, use, misuse, and conservation of minerals, water, soil, and fuels. Alternative resources and lifestyles for the future are evaluated.
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