Earth and Environmental Geosciences Department

Geology students learn how to solve problems related to energy, resources and the environment. They fill important roles during this important phase of human history, using the earth sciences to show how modern observations can be extended into deep time.

Most Earth and Environmental Geosciences graduates land jobs or go on to seek advanced degrees.

Almost All

Graduate students land jobs before graduation or go on to doctoral programs.

Clean Water

is a focus for environmental geologists, who also correct groundwater pollution.

Energy & Minerals

Modern technology would quickly cease to exist if geologists stopped finding new deposits.

Solving Problems in Energy, Resources & the Environment

Earth and Environmental Geosciences provides students with an introduction to problem solving, critical thinking, and basic concepts using the earth sciences to show how modern observations can be extended into deep time.

Throughout the years, the department has worked in fulfilling the societal need for specialists in the different fields of geology in the areas of natural resources, energy and the environment.

Research Areas We Focus On

Solid Earth and Planetary Dynamics

Includes planetary geology, geophysics, structure, mineralogy, petrology, and additional hard-rock disciplines.
Environmental and Surficial Processes

Includes applied and basic geochemistry, applied hydrogeology, surface and groundwater remediation, rivers and flooding, bedrock stream processes, paleoclimatology, and cave development.

Connect with the Earth and Environmental Geosciences Alumni Board

Our very active Alumni Advisory Board is continuously looking for new ways to help our faculty and students.

Meet the Members

Alumni Spotlight: EPA's Andreana Madera Martorell Works to Ensure Drinking Water Safety

She paired a GIS & Cartography Certificate with her master's degree.

About Her Work

Online GIS Certificates

Research: Dr. Damian Nance Deduced Cycle of Supercontinents

When he retired, colleagues from all over the world came together to pay tribute to his many contributions to geology.

Evidence for Supercontinents

History of Earth

Earth and Environmental Geosciences Student Experiences — Here and Abroad

Earth and Environmental Geosciences Careers

We prepare students to be competitive in the job market and graduate school by encouraging them to take applied courses. The geology job market is one of only a few to grow stronger over the last decade. Thanks to ongoing expansions in the environmental and petroleum industries, geology alumni are working throughout the United States and abroad.

Geosciences Careers & Internships

Alumni Engagement & Giving Opportunities

Alumni involvement drives innovation and impact in the Earth and Environmental Geosciences Department for both students and faculty. Explore the areas of highest need for our department, including student scholarships, student and faculty research support, and travel funds for students and faculty.

Geosciences Giving Opportunities