Geosciences Undergraduate Programs - College of Engineering & Natural Sciences

Geosciences Undergraduate Programs

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> Departments & Schools > Geosciences > Geosciences Undergraduate Programs

Geologists study the history, materials, processes and products of the Earth. Some pursue solely academic interests such as how mountains form and erode while others are interested in practical applications, exploring fossil fuels and minerals or planning construction sites and disposal locations. A geologist studies environmental impact.

The Department of Geosciences offers bachelor of science and bachelor of arts with specialization in geology, geophysics and environmental science.

TU’s curriculum provides a sound foundation in the basic sciences while engaging in energy-related fields of exploration, environment and resources. The bachelor of science degree in geosciences with a geology option prepares students for careers in the study of Earth’s physical characteristics including composition and structure. The environmental science option is designed for students who intend to work as geoscientists at organizations, corporations and government entities.

  • Program Objectives

    Bachelor of Science

    Students who complete the undergraduate program will:

    1. Be equipped to enter and complete graduate training in the geosciences.
    2. Be prepared to enter the geosciences profession.
    3. Apply knowledge in the geosciences, support sciences, and mathematics to solve complex geosciences problems.
    4. Communicate effectively with peers and professionals both orally and in written form.
    5. Adhere to accepted ethical and professional practice standards in the geosciences community.
    6. Recognize the need to engage in life-long learning.
    7. Understand contemporary issues in the geosciences.
  • Degree Options

    Geosciences, Environmental Science Option, B.S.G.S.

    Trains students to work as geoscientists at organizations, corporations and government entities and provides skills and knowledge needed to investigate the Earth’s components while considering environmental factors.

    Geosciences, B.S.G.S.

    Prepares students for careers in the study of Earth’s physical characteristics including composition, structure and processes.

    Geosciences, Petroleum Engineering Option, B.S.G.S.

    Provides a sound foundation in the basic sciences while engaging in basic and applied knowledge in petroleum engineering and energy-related fields.

    Geosciences Minor

    Students from other disciplines may minor in geosciences.

  • Typical Four-Year Schedule
    FRESHMAN – FALL SEMESTERFRESHMAN – SPRING SEMESTER
    Exposition and ArgumentationGeneral Elective
    Calculus ICalculus II
    General Chemistry I + LabGeneral Chemistry II + Lab
    Physical Geology + LabGeology Elective
    Introduction to Geosciences
    SOPHOMORE – FALL SEMESTERSOPHOMORE – SPRING SEMESTER
    Block I - Aesthetic Inquiry and Creative ExperienceBlock I - Aesthetic Inquiry and Creative Experience
    Block II - Historical and Social InterpretationGeneral Elective
    Calculus IIITechnical Elective
    General Physics I + LabGeneral Physics II + Lab
    MineralogyHistory of the Biosphere + Lab
    JUNIOR – FALL SEMESTERJUNIOR – SPRING SEMESTER
    Block II - Historical and Social InterpretationBlock II - Historical and Social Interpretation
    General ElectiveWriting for the Professions
    General ElectiveTechnical Elective
    Structural Geology + LabGeomorphology
    Sedimentary Rocks and Processes + LabGeology Elective (Upper Division)
    SENIOR – FALL SEMESTERSENIOR – SPRING SEMESTER
    Block II - Historical and Social InterpretationGeneral Elective
    Technical ElectiveGeneral Elective
    Technical ElectiveScientific Programming or Intro to Geoinfographic
    Information Systems + Lab
    Physics of the EarthTechnical Elective
    Technical ElectiveIgneous and Metamorphic Rocks and Processes
    + Lab
    Field Camp (Summer)
    *Introduction to College Writing or its equivalent may be a prerequisite in some cases.
    ++Courses that fulfill Blocks I, II, and III are listed each semester in the advising center and in the university
    schedule of courses.

  • Professional Opportunities
    • Senior geologist
    • Reservoir geologist
    • Exploration geologist
    • Remediation specialist
    • Earth modeler