Geology . . .
is the
science of the
earth. It is an applied
and interdisciplinary
field that uses a combination
of field work,
computer modeling
and lab work in the
solution of many environmental
and
resource-oriented
problems. Geologists
study the surface and
interior of the earth
and other planets.
They work to understand
the processes
that have shaped our
planet in the past, and
which will be shaping it
in the future.
Department of Plant and Earth Science
324 Agriculture Science Hall
(715) 425-3345
Undergraduate Catalog
Goals and Objectives
- To provide a strong base of knowledge in geology
- To provide "hands-on" laboratory and field experience
- To provide a research experience
- To encourage strong communication skills
- To encourage lifelong learning and instill a commitment to use knowledge wisely and act as
responsible citizens
Program
In addition to the general education program of the university, the geology
program includes required course work in physics, chemistry and mathematics and the core
courses in geology:
- Historical Geology
- Mineralogy
- Petrology
- Geomorphology
- Structural Geology
- Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
- Paleontology
- Geophysics
Minors are available in hydrogeology, earth science and geology as well as several emphases
such as environmental geology, engineering geology, oceanography, mineral exploration, and
petroleum geology. Students may also tailor their program to prepare for entering graduate
school.
Faculty
There are five geologists in the plant and earth science department, and fifteen other
faculty in the department with expertise in related fields such as soil science, hydrology,
environmental science, environmental geochemistry, hazardous waste management,
geographic information systems and remote sensing. Students will also do technical course
work involving many science departments on campus, including chemistry, physics, biology,
mathematics and geography/cartography.
What do Geologists Do?
Geologists are involved in many exciting and important
tasks, such as:
- searching for energy resources such as petroleum, coal, natural gas and geothermal energy;
- studying the movement and quality of ground water resources;
- the discovery, mining and reclamation of mineral deposits;
- studying earthquake faults and volcanoes, trying to predict their behavior and preventing
the damage they do;
- excavating and evaluating dinosaur and other fossil sites;
- designing and monitoring dams, highways, and landfill sites;
- looking for meteorites in Antarctica.
Geologists’ jobs may have them working on problems of their home town or traveling to the far
corners of the earth. They may be doing basic field work in the wilderness one day and
utilizing the most sophisticated analytical and computer equipment the next. Major employers
include: engineering and geological consulting firms, hydrological and environmental consulants,
state and federal agencies, mining companies, museums, universities and colleges,
secondary schools, and petroleum exploration and production companies.
Meaningful careers are open to those with bachelor’s degrees, with expanded opportunities for
those who go on to receive graduate degrees.
