Ohio University does not currently offer a dedicated undergraduate major or minor in paleontology, but undergraduate research is an integrated component of degree programs in several departments. Depending on the interests of a particular student, they can choose from majors or minors in the Departments of Geological Sciences, Biological Sciences, or Environmental and Plant Biology while customizing their elective courses to emphasize paleontology. Combining a major in one department with a minor in a second department provides students with the strongest background in paleontology and related biological and geological sciences.
The Department of Geological Sciences offers a wide selection of coursework specifically related to paleontology and as well as associated in courses sedimentary and structural geology.
BS/BA Geological Sciences with an emphasis in Paleontology:
Complete the required major track. Chose two electives from GEOL 4430, 4440, 4480, or 4460 (see coursework page) or one of these electives and a senior thesis in paleontology.
Minor in Geological Sciences with an emphasis in Paleontology:
Complete 18 hours in geological sciences including GEOL 1010, 2550, 3400, and at least three of GEOL 2210, 3500, 4430, 4440, 4480, or 4460 (see coursework page).
The Department of Biological Sciences offers the a broad array of courses emphasizing evolution and whole organism biology that form the basis for much of paleontology.
BS Biological Sciences or BS Marine, Freshwater, and Environmental Biology emphasizing Paleontology:
Complete required major track, for junior/senior electives choose BIOS 4790 and other courses listed on the paleontology coursework page.
Minor in Biological Sciences emphasizing Paleontology:
Complete 18 hours in biological sciences including BIOS 1700, 1705, 1710, 1715, and 3100. For elective coursework choose BIOS 3300 and 9 hours of other courses listed on the paleontology coursework page.
