Environmental Geology
Environmental Geology provides you with an opportunity to understand the physical systems and processes of the earth, including processes that have shaped its past and those that will shape its future, with a particular emphasis on those aspects of rock, water, air, soil, and life where humans and the earth interact. If you’re passionate about the environment and are committed to improving stewardship of this world, an Environmental Geology degree may be for you.
This degree provides strong foundational courses in geology with interdisciplinary and cross-listed courses in anthropology, geography, biology and physics. This foundation can be combined with certificates in geospatial analysis or water quality science for a broader foundation, making students highly-desired employees or graduate school candidates.
Fieldwork is a critical component of the major. Students may participate in multiple formal field experiences, including single day and multi-day field trips to see regional or international geology. Students can also engage in field work as part of research projects carried out with faculty.
You will work in well-equipped labs, including experimental petrology, stratigraphy and geophysical laboratories. You will also receive hands-on training with cutting-edge technology such as GPS equipment, GIS software and drones.
Faculty actively engage with you to gain hands-on experience throughout your academic career. You will enjoy opportunities to participate in an array of field trips, conduct studies at the Regional Science Center, learn how to operate technical GPS equipment, conduct research with faculty mentors and attend local, regional and national conferences.
MSUM’s Center for Geospatial studies has joined the global conversation on how to access, create and share geospatial data to enrich the lives of its community and to involve students in this cutting-edge technology.
Students engage in multi-semester independent research projects mentored by faculty experts. Most present their research at our on-campus Student Academic Conference and 80% present research at regional, national and international professional conferences. Opportunities also exist for internship work with environmental companies and local governments.
The hallmark of an Environmental Geology major at MSUM is the dedicated faculty mentoring you receive beginning your freshman year through graduation. You will immerse yourself in meaningful, hands-on experiences that prepare you for interesting careers or graduate school.
Learn about all the Environmental Geology program opportunities
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Anthropology | Art | Biology | Business | Earth Science Education | Environmental Studies | Psychology
MSUM’s environmental geology program provides a strong foundation in the study of earth's physical systems and processes. Equipping you with general preparation in geology, hydrology, geochemistry, paleoecology and earth systems science. You can choose your focus from one of six emphases options based on your career goals. Here is just a sample of environmental geology careers that are predicted to have job growth in the next 10 years.
Environmental Geology Related Careers
| Career | Job Growth (2021-2031) | Median Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Cartographer | 3% | $69,000 |
| Environmental Scientist | 5% | $76,000 |
| Geoscientist | 5% | $83,000 |