9GEO - Geology

The Geology major provides a broad background in the physical sciences, with a strong focus on geology and its pivotal role in understanding our environment. Our graduates enter graduate school for continuing education, or move into the workforce prepared to contribute as leaders addressing the many local and global issues facing society.

The major emphasizes experiential learning through field studies and outdoor education. Courses include real projects and original research participation. The program is enriched through department field trips across New England, eastern Canada, and the western United States. All Geology majors take a pair of capstone courses involving an original research project and a seminar designed to synthesize their education and tie scientific thought to issues in society.

Students majoring in Geology have access to equipment for analyses of ground and surface water, soil, sediment, and rock. This equipment enables terrestrial and lake coring, collection of hydro-geochemical data, determination of sediment characteristics, subsurface studies, geological mapping, and more. Specific analytical tools include X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, and inductively coupled plasma spectrophotometer. The program also has a range of geophysical exploration equipment, including a gravity meter, seismographs, electromagnetometers, a magnetometer, and ground-penetrating radar instruments.

Goals

• To provide a Liberal Arts degree program in Geology having a broad background in the physical sciences with a focus on geology and its pivotal role in understanding our environment.

• To provide instruction and experiences with emphasis on field studies, solution of active problems, and communication in a professional format.