Geology
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Geology is the scientific study of the Earth’s materials, processes, and history.
Overview
The program offers rigorous, project-based activities that include field, laboratory, classroom, and research experiences to best prepare students for a broad range of geoscience-related career opportunities. Students can choose an environmental emphasis or pursue the general course of study.
In this program, you will take dynamic courses covering Earth exploration, environmental geology, oceans, and the Great Lakes. You will study Earth history, geoscience research tools, structural geology, sedimentation-stratigraphy, and field methods, and explore advanced topics like petrology, tectonics, geomorphology, geohydrology, GIS applications, and geophysics.
You will be immersed in a vibrant community of accomplished faculty and engaged peers, frequently conducting field studies and educational research and applying their earth science knowledge in real-world situations. Undergraduate students benefit from individually mentored research opportunities and often attend or present their work at professional meetings. Additionally, student-run clubs regularly organize events, including speakers and field experiences, fostering networking, industry knowledge, and practical experiences.
Department of Geology
gvsu.edu/geology
118
Padnos Hall of Science
(616) 331-3728
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
Top skills- Science
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 80,288.00 | 10% |
| $102,044.80 | 25% |
| $137,654.40 | 50% |
| $190,715.20 | 75% |
| $237,328.00 | 90% |
Measure large areas of the Earth's surface using satellite observations, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), light detection and ranging (LIDAR), or related sources.
Top skills- Mathematics
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 46,098.91 | 10% |
| $ 58,418.43 | 25% |
| $ 65,969.72 | 50% |
| $ 83,088.94 | 75% |
| $ 98,103.67 | 90% |
Manage operations at geothermal power generation facilities. Maintain and monitor geothermal plant equipment for efficient and safe plant operations.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Judgment and Decision Making
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 74,950.94 | 10% |
| $ 93,546.55 | 25% |
| $108,185.54 | 50% |
| $134,289.98 | 75% |
| $172,478.81 | 90% |
Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Science
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 46,695.99 | 10% |
| $ 63,647.99 | 25% |
| $ 89,377.60 | 50% |
| $128,024.00 | 75% |
| $151,299.19 | 90% |
Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 55,120.00 | 10% |
| $ 65,686.39 | 25% |
| $ 90,417.60 | 50% |
| $114,816.00 | 75% |
| $159,452.79 | 90% |
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Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
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with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
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Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
Career Advising
Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.
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