Geology Major
Geology is the study of the Earth, its materials, and the processes that shape it. It is a major within Natural Sciences & Math.
Geology is the study of the Earth—its materials, structures, and the processes that have shaped it over time. Geologists examine rocks and minerals to understand how they form and change, investigate how water, wind, and other forces reshape landscapes, and study the forces beneath the surface that cause earthquakes and volcanic activity. The major develops skills in observing and interpreting physical evidence, working with data and field measurements, and understanding how different Earth systems interact. Students learn to ask questions like why mountains form where they do, how to identify rock types, what causes natural hazards, and how resources like water and metals are distributed underground.
Students who choose geology typically have curiosity about how the natural world works and enjoy hands-on investigation. The major usually begins with foundational courses in Earth materials, plate tectonics, and surface processes. As students progress, they take more specialized courses and conduct fieldwork—examining rock formations and landscapes in real environments. Upper-level study often focuses on specific areas such as structural geology, paleontology, environmental processes, or subsurface analysis, allowing students to apply fundamental concepts to particular questions and problems.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Geology program commonly includes topics such as:
- Mineralogy
- Petrology
- Structural geology
- Sedimentology
- Geochemistry
- Field methods
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Geology is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Geology background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Geologist
- Geoscientist
- Environmental consultant
- Field technician
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Geology major?
Geology is the study of the Earth, its materials, and the processes that shape it. It is part of natural sciences & math, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Geology majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, sedimentology, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Geology major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as geologist, geoscientist, environmental consultant. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Geology offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.