Students studying

Geology/Earth Science, General

There is so much more to geology and earth science than just rocks. As a geologist, you'll study the Earth's composition, minerals, resources, natural processes, and use that knowledge to unlock its secrets. If you love solving a good mystery, enjoy the outdoors, and want to help man use the planet's vast resources more wisely, majoring in geology might be a good option for you. Before you arrive at college, you should think about what your level of study will be. Although a bachelor's degree in geology/earth science will ensure that you will indeed have work opportunities after graduation, an advanced degree will give you the chance to work in research positions or teach at a college. If you chose to pursue an advanced degree, you will need to choose from one the many specialties in geology, such as volcanology, oceanography, seismology, paleontology, mineralogy, and hydrology, among others. Once your undergraduate studies begin, you'll discover that the geology/earth science major is not a traditional college major. A geologist lives in three worlds: the classroom, the lab, and the field. As a student, your courses will include petrology, geology, mineralogy, and many other topics. You will spend time in the lab using spectrophotometers, magnetometers, and other tools to analyze the specimens you gathered and analytical/scientific software to record the results. You may also use computer-aided design, map creation, graphics/photo imaging, or database/query as part of your work. In lab classes, you may have the opportunity to participate in field trips where you will extract real samples for further analysis in the lab. Although a bachelor's degree in geology and earth science can lead to work opportunities, an advanced degree will open up research or teaching positions. If you have a particular specialty you'd like to focus in, advancing your education will allow you to gain more knowledge in this area.

Create a free account to find, finance and attend the college that's right for you.

Colleges

University of California-Los Angeles

The University of California in Los Angeles, better known as UCLA, is one of 10 campuses in the UC system. With 109 academic departments and more than 125 majors offered, as well as an average of one billion dollars funded for research every year and...

“…

The amount of knowledge you will gain during your first year at UCLA will be more valuable than any previous experiences. First, there is the academic aspect. Essentially, the material being taught in college is the same for any school, so self...

” – Joanna from Carson City, NV
Harvard University
“…

With its liberal arts focus, Harvard provides the type of education that helps you to become a better thinker. You probably won't gain as much concrete knowledge here as you would at a non-liberal arts college, but I think this has more to do with...

” – Cindy
Stanford University

Stanford University is a research institution located in the California town of the same name. The more than 8,000-acre campus features seven schools, the largest of which is the School of Humanities and Sciences, and 80 residential facilities. With...

“…

The sheer diversity of classes is amazing and the quarter system means that you have the opportunity to take a lot of them without overloading youself

” – Charlene from Sandy, UT
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Pennsylvania State University, Penn State, is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university with a main campus in University Park. This public research institution was founded in 1855 and is one of the largest universities in the US by student body. Its...

“…

Penn State is a first class University. Professors are both well informed and intriguing. Even the biggest lecture classes can seem like an engaging one on one meeting. The class listings also are very various and allow for much customization in...

” – Eric from Winburne, PA
University of California-Berkeley

Founded in 1868, the University of California at Berkeley is the flagship of the University of California system of higher education, with a campus overlooking the San Francisco Bay. UC Berkeley is known for its academic excellence, student activism...

“…

Berkeley is a great school chock full of award-winning, book-publishing, enthusiastic professors who really know their stuff. If you take classes you're really interested in, you'll learn more. Don't forget about office hours, tutoring sessions, and...

” – Karina from Los Angeles, CA
University of Florida

One of the few land-, space-, and sea-grant institutions in the US, the University of Florida is a public research university founded in 1853. It is the eighth largest single-campus university in the United States. U.S. News & World Report have...

“…

This is the best school in the state hands down, and is also a powerful name amongst all colleges in the nation, both private and public.

” – Jerry from San Antonio, FL
Yale University

Yale University is a large research institution chartered in 1701, making it the third-oldest institution of higher education in the US. On top of the numerous academic undergrad degrees at Yale College, students also have access to Multidisciplinary...

“…

It is hard to limit yourself to only 4 or 5 courses with all that Yale has to offer. It isn't unheard of for very ambitious students to pile on 6 or even 7 at a time! Many classes will push you hard to master the material, but there are always a...

” – Yale '12
Columbia University in the City of New York

Founded in 1754, Columbia University is a private research university located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The urban Ivy League campus houses 17 libraries and 20 schools, which offer upwards of 350 majors, as well as the Cathedral of St. John...

“…

The amount of learning that takes place in one semester at Columbia is truly amazing. I have learned more in such a short period of time than I would have ever thought possible. As much as we may all complain about how extensive the Core Curriculum...

” – Nina from Baldwin, NY
Cornell University

As an Ivy League, a research institution, and one of three private land-grant universities in the US, Cornell University admissions are highly competitive. Since Cornell was founded in 1865 in Ithaca, NY, it has been a co-educational, nonsectarian...

“…

With the exorbitant amount of majors offered, it is extremely easy to find your niche at Cornell. As an engineer, I was worried about immediately being funneled into classes filled to the brim with only math and science majors and engineers. I was...

” – Samantha from Ithaca, NY
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Founded in 1817, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is the state’s oldest university. U of M has very high research activity and is a often referred to as a Public Ivy. The university at Ann Arbor offers upwards of 260 degrees for undergraduates...

“…

The classes here are pretty intense. I'm a student in the college of Engineering, where group work is an important part of most classes. Most of the core classes like calculus, physics, and chemistry are very large classes, but they all have smaller...

” – Elizabeth from Rochester Hills, MI
Duke University

Duke University is a selective, private research university that calls Durham, NC, home. Founded originally as Trinity College in 1838, it was renamed by tobacco tycoon James Buchanan Duke in 1924 and became the “Gothic Wonderland” campus it is today...

“…

In high school, I found that I could ace any class with a study cram the night before any test. By doing this, I never truly learned anything. Sure, I remembered enough for the tests and exams, but if someone were to quiz me a week later, I would...

” – Sophomore from Florida
Texas A & M University-College Station

Opening its doors on October 4, 1876, Texas A&M University’s College Station campus was the first institution of higher education in Texas. A&M is home to 17 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 133 undergraduate degree...

“…

I'm a chemical engineering major, which in my opinion is the hardest major at school not only because of the homework but because it challenges you to think in a completely new way. While other schools might emphasize by-the-book engineering, you're...

” – Bryn from Dallas, TX
The University of Texas at Austin

A Public Ivy and space-grant institution, the University of Texas at Austin is one of nine academic universities in the UT system, and also the first. Founded in 1883 and home to 18 schools and colleges, it is one of the largest schools in the US but...

“…

I know you are hearing all about how big UT is and how big the classes are and how big campus is. All this might be a little intimidating and even scary for you! But no worries! There will certainly be one or two classes that you will have that are...

” – Lila from Houston, TX
Boston University

Boston University is a private, non-profit university with a heavy emphasis on research. BU’s main location is right in its name—Boston, MA—but the university has flagship locations around the world, including in London, Sydney, and Washington, DC...

“…

The faculty is usually attentive and pretty entertaining. Most professors know exactly what they're talking about and provide insight into difficult fields with ease. I took the Core Curriculum and am learning much about history and philosophy. I...

” – Alex from Waco, TX
Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university that measures itself by whom it includes and how they succeed; advances research and discovery of public value; and assumes fundamental responsibility for the economic, social...

“…

Arizona State was my top choice based on the wide spread of classes offered, the great education, and the world changing young men and woman that have prospered out of ASU. My classes are challenging but with hard work A's are capable. I no longer...

” – Joel from Chandler, AZ
Purdue University-Main Campus

Purdue University-West Lafayette is a public research university founded in 1869 and the main campus of the Purdue University System. Purdue is home to 11 colleges and schools including a nationally renowned School of Engineering conferring degrees...

“…

I am studying in the school of science. My classes are challenging, and I am definitely learning from my professors. There are plenty of resources to get extra help here as well such as free help rooms or study sessions with teaching assistants.

” – Erika from Indiana
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an institution in the UNC system and the first public university to confer degrees. A member of the Association of American Universities, UNC Chapel Hill is considered a Public Ivy and houses a...

“…

Although some of the classes are large, students have the opportunity for some one on one time with professors and teaching assistants through office hours and smaller versions of lectures called recitations. So no matter the class size, you are...

” – Alexia from Apex, NC
Princeton University

Founded in 1746, Princeton University is a private, highly selective, Ivy League, the fourth oldest higher education institution in the nation, and one of the original nine colonial colleges. Princeton features a liberal arts education in the...

“…

Princeton is an extremely welcoming school with excellent professors, students, and faculty members. I am wrapping up my first semester here, and I have had the time of my life...I really wish that time would just slow down and I could be here for...

” – A Midwestern Boy
University of Arizona

Founded in 1885, Arizona is the state's flagship 4-year public institution. The University of Arizona features 20 colleges, hundreds of degree options, and top-ranked online programs. Committed to innovation and impact, the university's research and...

“…

Not all of the learning you do is academic. Much of my first year was personal growth learning. Just be expected for both.

” – Alexis from Phoenix, AZ
University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is a high-research institution located in Los Angeles, California, where it’s been educating students since 1880. The university is comprised of two campuses, the main University Park and the Health Sciences...

“…

University of Southern California is among the top universities in the country, and keeps getting better. The professors at the university are all at the top of their fields, and the extensive alumni list proves that the connections that you make...

” – Thomas from Houston, TX
Brown University

Brown University is a private Ivy League research university that was founded in 1764. The university offers more than 40 academic departments. The campus is home to program housing for students who share similar interests, plus substance-free...

“…

Brown University really emphasizes the learning experience for undergraduate students. With no core curriculum, students have the opportunity to explore courses in fields they would not have the opportunity to at other colleges. As a result, a...

” – Nicole from Providence, RI
University of Washington-Seattle Campus

The University of Washington is a selective institution located in Seattle, WA, with two satellite campuses in Bothell and Tacoma. At this Public Ivy, sustainability is a major focus and the school has made The Princeton Review Green College Honor...

“…

If you can get past the large number of students in your lower-level classes, learning will not be a problem. Professors, TAs and study centers are generally very kind and willing to help you out. If you seek help, you will get it.

” – Madeline from Seattle, WA
University of Pennsylvania

Founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League institution in Philadelphia. UPenn hosts 12 schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 90 academic fields of study. Additionally, UPenn’s Gothic-style...

“…

I think it's the perfect school for me.

” – Katherine from Murrieta, CA
Michigan State University

Founded in 1855, Michigan State University is a large public research institution in East Lansing, Michigan, with a multicultural student population representing more than 140 countries. MSU offers more than 200 areas of study through 17 degree...

“…

As one of the eleven Big Ten schools, Michigan State's prestige includes it's wonderful learning opportunities. We have amazing professors that push academic limits beyond the class room. Although Michigan State is one of the largest universities...

” – Paulina from zeeland, MI
Northwestern University

Northwestern University is a 4-year private research institution in the Chicagoland area. Northwestern is home to 12 colleges and schools and is renowned for its Medill School of Journalism, Kellogg School of Management, and Bienen School of Music...

“…

If you can to learn, you will. The professors don't spoon-feed information - instead, they give you the tools to learn the subjects yourself. Also, just hanging out with people (students, and sometimes students hang out with professors) helps you...

” – Allison from Port Barrington, IL
Ohio State University-Main Campus

We understand you don’t want just any university. You want THE university that’s right for you. There’s a reason why Ohio State is a leading university and the #1 university in Ohio. Here you can achieve your goals doing what you love. You’ll have...

“…

You won't believe the opportunities you have here at Ohio State. There are over 160 academic programs available. I enrolled with an undeclared major, but wasn't nervous about it because ultimately whatever you go into you will be successful. The...

” – David from Perrysburg, OH
Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private, research institution located in the New York town of the same name. SU’s 13 academic divisions offer 200 majors and 100 minors for undergraduate students, as well as multiple international study programs in  60...

“…

The selection of classes is amazing -- it is impossible to be disinterested in each and every one. Even in the required courses (generally speaking, there's only one, all the rest are options) you will be able to learn and stay interested...

” – Angela from Syracuse, NY
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Founded in 1867, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a public institution in central Illinois and the flagship campus of the U of I system. UIUC is home to 15 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 150 areas of...

“…

I've learned things so far in every course I've taken and have met really great professors and instructors. You learn a lot from the people as well. They're from all over the world.

” – Kristen from Chicago, IL
University of California-Davis

The University of California in Davis is a public institution in northern California and one of the largest universities by enrollment in the UC System. UC Davis is home to four colleges conferring undergraduate degrees and six professional schools...

“…

If your looking for a great learning experience, there is something important that you have to know, it all depends on YOU. So if you are, the advice I would give you and stuff you've probably already heard is to get to know your professor, research...

” – Vianey from rancho cucamonga, CA
University of Georgia

The University of Georgia is a land- and sea-grant public research university in Athens, GA. Founded in 1785, University of Georgia is one of three public universities to hold the title of the oldest public university in the US. With 17 different...

“…

At UGA you get what you sign up for. I am currently taking 15 hours and all 15 of those are spent taking serious notes and paying close attention to learn the new material. I am learning new stuff everyday and am tested on it every 3 weeks. Coming...

” – Paige from Blythewood, SC
Florida State University

Florida State University is the oldest institution of Higher Education in Florida. Located on 1,633 acres of land in Tallahassee, FSU is a space- and sea-grant research university offering more than 300 degree programs. The campus is home to the only...

“…

There are many different programs at FSU so you will be surrounded with experienced and helpful faculty. The university is strong in the liberal arts and hard sciences, but they also have a number of other outstanding programs including criminology...

” – Alesha from Shalimar, FL
University of Miami

Founded in 1925, the University of Miami is a private research institution in south Florida. The U encompasses 11 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 180 fields of study. Away from the classroom, the Miami campus is home to...

“…

The Cool thing about UM is the diversity of the school and the city of Miami. I've met people from every corner of the country and the world and that's the best part about college, of course learning in class but also learning from those who are not...

” – Jude from Miami, FL
San Diego State University

San Diego State University is a public research institution located in San Diego, California. What began as an all-female college for elementary school teachers now consists of 8 colleges that offer 95 undergraduate programs plus a variety of...

“…

I have definitely learned new information and facts I did not know prior to attending SDSU. All professors are unique with their own way of helping students learn the material. Professor's office hours are so helpful and fitting to your schedule, and...

” – Lizette from Planada, CA
Indiana University-Bloomington

Founded in 1820, Indiana University-Bloomington is the largest university in the state and the flagship campus of the IU system in southwest Indiana. IU encompasses 16 colleges and schools hosting over 200 undergraduate majors. As a school with a...

“…

The quality of the education you get here is really reliant on which specific classes you take. I've had some really challenging, forum-based classes where I felt like I learned a lot, including a lot more beyond just the curriculum. I believe some...

” – Alicia from West Chester, OH
University of California-Irvine

The University of California in Irvine was founded in 1965 in the town and state of the same name, and is the youngest member of the Association of American Universities. This high-research institution offers 92 majors and 86 minors and the campus is...

“…

Being that I have only been at UCI for one year so far, I feel that I am really learning a lot from my professors and from the students that I have surrounded myself with. No matter where you are at, it is the people you are around that you can...

” – Emi from Temecula, CA
Baylor University

Founded in 1845 by the Baptist General Convention of Texas, Baylor University is a 4-year Christian institution and the oldest continuously-operating university in Texas. Baylor offers bachelor’s degrees in 128 academic fields of study. As a...

“…

Perhaps my favorite thing about Baylor is the opportunity I have had as an honor student to have the interdisciplinary major called University Scholars. If you have high enough SAT's and enough AP classes and a good application essay, you can be...

” – Meaghan from Keller, TX
University of Oregon

With a campus along the Willamette River, the University of Oregon is a 4-year public university in Eugene and the flagship campus of the UO System. The UO is home to nine colleges hosting more than 300 degree-granting academic programs. To provide a...

“…

I went to a top-rated, public high school and thought I was going to coast in college. I am taking 2 chemistry classes, math and English and am really being challenged. I have also been able to get the help I needed from professors and affordable...

” – Alexandra from San Diego, CA
Washington State University

Founded in 1890, Washington State University is the state's first land-grant university. Washington State University offers more than 200 fields of study, including 96 undergraduate majors, 86 minors, and more than 140 graduate and professional...

“…

The Professors at WSU are thorough in their teaching but sometimes lack the patience for slower students. The curriculum while tough is also very educational and I have found it to be rather enjoyable.

” – John from Clarkston, WA
University of Maryland-College Park

Founded in 1856, the University of Maryland-College Park is a 4-year public research university in Maryland’s Capital Region and the flagship campus of the UMD system. UMD hosts 12 colleges and schools granting undergraduate degrees in 92 academic...

“…

At the University of Maryland, you learn so much more than just facts and truths from textbooks and lectures. While the classes are extremely informational, and the professors and T.A.s are all very knowledgeable on their subjects, the real learning...

” – Anonymous from PA
Clemson University

Clemson University is America’s second-largest university by student population and South Carolina’s land- and sea-grant institution. Clemson is home to seven colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in more than 80 academic majors. For...

“…

Not only do I learn a lot of material from the textbooks and outstanding professors, but Clemson teaches you how to manage your new independent life. It also reaffirms your basic fundamentals in school and out side of the classroom. You will be book...

” – Lenise from Decatur, GA
Northeastern University

A private research institution located in Boston, Northeastern University was founded in 1898. Northeastern is home to nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 90 academic majors. Additionally, the university operates a...

“…

I'm learning so much from Northeastern. I'm currently a psychology major and a music industry minor. I absolutely love it here because there is so many diverse majors and minors that I can do. One of the greatest things here is that I can always see...

” – Xiangling from Staten Island`, NY
University of Houston

The University of Houston is a public research institution and the third-largest university in Texas. UH is home to 16 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in 108 fields of study. A diverse campus, UH has been designated an Hispanic-...

“…

No matter what major you'll get into, you'll definitely learn a lot. There a many professors who care if you're actually learning or not and they will try to engage you as best as they can with the amount of students they have. I'm in the Honors...

” – Gregory from Houston, TX
Central Michigan University

Originally founded as a teachers college, Central Michigan University has grown to become a 4-year public research institution. CMU encompasses eight colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in over 200 academic programs. In addition, CMU is home to...

“…

Having only been at Central Michigan University for a year, I feel like I have learned so much. Not only are students taught so much in the classroom, they learn through volunteering and getting involved on campus.

” – Samantha from White Cloud, MI
University of South Florida

The University of South Florida is a public research university located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering more than 180 majors and concentrations. Ranked on multiple lists for its research efforts, USF’s Office of Undergraduate Research at the Tampa...

“…

Besides your core classes that apply directly to your major, students must meet “Gordon Rule” requirements in order to graduate. These classes have broadened my horizon tremendously. I never would have taken Anthropology, World Regional Geography, or...

” – Julie from Deland, FL
Ohio University-Main Campus

Ohio University doesn't simply deliver a degree. It offers an experience that becomes a part of who you are and what you'll be, forever. OHIO is a four-year public R1 research institution offering more than 250 programs of study and boasting more...

“…

Ohio University is a great academic school and I feel I have learned so much in just a year of attending this university. Although, freshman year is based on tier one classes and usually are only review and basics, they are great refreshers and help...

” – Caitlynn from Norwalk, OH
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

Founded in 1787 as the Pittsburgh academy, the University of Pittsburgh is a 4-year state-related research institution. Pitt is composed of 16 colleges and universities granting undergraduate degrees in numerous academic majors and minors. The Pitt...

“…

The professors are great, but in order to take advantage of all they have to offer, you have to GO to class!! Also, create a relationship with them - it may come in handy for research or internship opportunities.

” – Lauren from Harrison City, PA
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Boston College

Boston College is a 4-year Jesuit Catholic University and the first institution of higher learning founded in the city of Boston. BC is home to eight schools and colleges conferring degrees in over 50 fields of study. As a Catholic university, Boston...

“…

BC lives up to its Jesuit ideal in offering a well rounded, liberal arts experience. Small class sizes and engaging professors are essential parts of all classes. BC accepts a great deal of AP and SAT II credits, exempt students from less interesting...

” – Andrea from Lake Forest, CA
Auburn University
Auburn University, AL
Auburn University

Auburn University is a 4-year public research institution and the second largest university in Alabama. Auburn encompasses 12 colleges offering undergraduate degrees in over 150 academic majors. Outside of the classroom, Auburn is home to the Auburn...

“…

I'm in the engineering program and I am learning tons about software and how computers work. I highly recommend Auburn to anyone who is looking for an engineering school.

” – Marissa from Stafford, VA
Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University was founded in 1873 as a private research university in Nashville, Tennessee. Academically, the university focuses on an interdisciplinary approach,  encouraging students to take courses from any of the 143 areas of study. The...

“…

Vanderbilt is often confused with one of them Ivy League schools up in Connecticut or wherever, but with good reason. If you choose to attend the prestigious Vanderbilt University then you will receive a very fine education from professors who want...

” – K from Atlanta, GA
Temple University

Temple University, founded in 1884, is a public, four-year high research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Home to more than 37,000 students, Temple offers more than 600 academic programs in 17 schools and colleges, on several...

“…

Whether it is a boring topic or not the faculty at Temple University makes sure that you learn the information in a fun or interesting manner.

” – Brooke from Philadelphia, PA
Johns Hopkins University

At Johns Hopkins University, you’ll have the relationships and resources to explore what you care about most—and then dig deeper to make a difference in the world around you. Hopkins combines the resources of the first and top-funded research...

“…

All of the classes are full of material and even the intro classes go above and beyond what one would have learned in high school, and even in an AP class.

” – Alyssa from Grand Blanc, MI