Geology

College of Natural Science and Mathematics
Department of Geology and Geophysics
(907) 474-7565
www.uaf.edu/geology/

B.S. Degree

Minimum Requirements for Degree: 130 credits

Downloadable PDF (PDF 118K)

Graduates in geology have broad backgrounds in the earth sciences and firm foundations in mathematics, physics and chemistry. There are many concentrations available in the geological sciences, and the suggested curricula are intended to be flexible enough to allow students to pursue their own emphasis in the junior and senior years. The bachelor’s degree prepares students for positions with industry or government or for graduate studies.

Major--B.S. Degree

1. Complete the general university requirements. (As part of the core curriculum requirements, complete MATH 200X, CHEM 105X and 106X.)
2. Complete the B.S. degree requirements. (As part of the B.S. degree, complete: STAT 200X or 300; PHYS 103X and 104X, or PHYS 211X and 212X.)
3. Complete the following program (major) requirements:*
   GEOS 101X--The Dynamic Earth--4 credits
   GEOS 112X--The History of Earth and Life--4 credits
   GEOS 213--Mineralogy--4 credits
   GEOS 214--Petrology and Petrography--4 credits
   GEOS 225--Field and Computer Methods in Geology--2 credits
   GEOS 304--Geomorphology--3 credits
   GEOS 314--Structural Geology--4 credits
   GEOS 315W--Paleobiology and Paleontology--4 credits
   GEOS 322--Stratigraphy and Sedimentation--4 credits
   GEOS 351W--Field Geology**--8 credits
   GEOS 430--Statistics and Data Analysis in Geology--3 credits
   MATH 201X--Calculus--4 credits
   Electives--open
4. Complete 15 credits of upper-division GEOS courses or upper-division courses as approved by the undergraduate advisor.*
5. Minimum credits required--130 credits

* Student must earn a C grade or better in each GEOS course and in all courses that fulfill requirement 4.
** GEOS 351 is offered at UAF when there is sufficient demand. In years when GEOS 351 is not offered (decision made early in fall semester), students are required to take a 6-credit field geology class at another institution. The geology and geophysics undergraduate advisor will assist students in placement in a field geology class.
Studies in geophysics: Students interested in pursuing a program in geophysics are encouraged to pursue a major in geology which includes GEOS 418 and 416 with a minor in physics. Students should consult with the geology department regarding constructing a plan of study.

Minor

1. Complete the following:
   GEOS 101X--The Dynamic Earth--4 credits
   Approved GEOS electives--12 credits
2. Minimum credits required--16 credits