Bachelor of Science in Geology
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geology degree at Wayne State University is a research-focused program designed to develop your understanding of the structure, composition and processes of our Earth. Utilizing a modern approach to interpret our changing world, each class prepares you to become a professional geologist or environmental scientist.
Why Wayne State’s geology major?
- Endless hands-on research and field experiences nurture your understanding of our wondrous world.
- The curriculum centers around the urban environment and urban impacts on the environment.
- Pursue direct pathways to graduate study in geology or environmental science.
- Work with the David J. Lowrie Geology Mineral Museum — Detroit’s first geology mineral museum — and discover artifacts like a 4.5 billion-year-old meteorite once owned by Thomas Edison.
What is geology?
Geology is the scientific study of the Earth’s structure and evolution through the careful analysis of its natural minerals and processes. A branch of natural science, the field of geology combines related subjects such as biology, chemistry, math, physics and environmental science.
Nonprofit and for-profit organizations employ geologists who work to alert the public of impending natural disasters or tackle the mounting problems of our world, like climate change.
Learning objectives
Wayne State University’s geology majors learn to:
- Understand the fundamentals of the physical aspects of Earth.
- Discover how to answer modern, complex questions about our natural world.
- Learn how human activities impact the Earth and what we can do to mitigate our damage.
- Develop the groundwork to enter a career as a geologist/related environmental sciences or pursue graduate study.
Geology program requirements and curriculum
The Bachelor of Science in Geology requires a minimum of 120 credits. As an undergraduate student in the Department of Environmental Science and Geology, you must satisfy these requirements:
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences group requirements
- University general education requirements
- Overall geology program requirements
Courses
Whether your interests lie in petroleum engineering, wildlife conservation or geotechnical consulting, each class builds on your knowledge of the natural sciences.
As a geology major, you explore some of the following fascinating topics about our Earth:
- Glaciers
- Mineralogy
- Oceanography
- Petrology
- Sedimentology
- Stratigraphy
- Structural Geology
Hands-on geological research
Field experiences are an integral part of the Bachelor of Science in Geology program. To ensure you strengthen your problem-solving and teamwork skills, you enroll in a for-credit summer field camp requirement after you complete your foundational courses.
From geochronology to the analysis of crustal processes, you have ample opportunities to explore your interests while gaining vital research experience.
Prepare for graduate studies in geology or environmental science
Wayne State University’s undergraduate geology degree program is an excellent stepping stone for the following master’s degree programs:
- Master of Arts in Environmental Science
- Master of Science in Environmental Science
- Master of Arts in Geology
- Master of Science in Geology
Learn more about how our graduate programs prepare you for any vocation.
Minor in geochemistry, geophysics or environmental science
To support the exploration and pursuit of an exciting career in the sciences, the Department of Environmental Science and Geology offers the following minors:
Geology bachelor’s degree career outlook
Entering into a geology career is not only intrinsically rewarding but also highly lucrative. Government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations and academic institutions constantly seek talented geology degree holders to confront complex problems.
This might mean evaluating the environmental impact of oil drilling, performing soil analysis to protect citizens or teaching young children about the movement of our Earth’s tectonic plates.
Earning your bachelor’s degree opens the door to these exciting opportunities and prepares you for further studies as employers often hire candidates who hold a master’s degree in environmental science and geology.
Career insights
A degree in geology can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are just a few of the many opportunities available in this field.
| Career | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Atmospheric and space scientists | $91,000 |
| Atmospheric, earth, marine and space sciences teachers, postsecondary | $90,000 |
| Conservation scientist | $63,000 |
| Environmental engineer | $92,000 |
| Geodetic surveyor | $67,000 |
| Geographic information systems technologists and technicians | $94,000 |
| Geoscientists (except hydrologists and geographers) | $79,000 |
| Geothermal production manager | $113,000 |
| Hydrologist | $97,000 |
| Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers | $100,000 |
| Natural sciences manager | $137,000 |
| Petroleum engineer | $116,000 |
| Soil and plant scientist | $59,000 |
| Water resource specialist | $137,000 |
This data provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.
Financial aid and tuition
Wayne State University offers extensive scholarships and financial aid as well as affordable flat-rate tuition to all undergraduate students.
To determine the cost of your education, review our net price calculator.
Learn more about Wayne State University’s B.S. in Geology
Take the first step toward an immersive career making a difference on our Earth by enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in Geology at Wayne State University today!