Program Overview

University Program Information

The Department of Geoscience offers two undergraduate degrees and three minors: Geology, Earth and Environmental Science, and Physical Geography.

Undergraduate Degrees

B.S. in Geology

The undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree in Geology is a rigorous program designed to prepare students for entry into the workforce as practicing geoscientists and provide them with the foundational knowledge required to pursue an advanced degree. Students can pursue interests in several areas of specialization, including:

• Petrology
• Volcanology
• Structural geology
• Sedimentary geology
• Hydrology
• Soil science
• Climate change
• Petroleum geology
• Paleontology A critical component of this degree program is a field-based capstone project in which students must demonstrate their ability to interpret a natural system and communicate their understanding in a professional manner.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• Identify common rock-forming minerals in hand specimen and thin section, major rock types, and describe the conditions under which each of them formed
• Describe the chemical characteristics of various types of rocks, geologic influences on environmental pollutants, and the use of stable and radiogenic isotopes as environmental tracers and tools in dating rocks and water
• Identify the common types of invertebrate and vertebrate fossils, their approximate age, and the environments in which they lived
• Recognize in the field, various types of geologic structures, and be able to use these to reconstruct the structural history of a region
• Describe the major processes that determine the characteristics of the earth's surface and be able to examine a landscape and interpret its geomorphic history
• Describe the plate-tectonic history of the earth, the relationship between plate tectonic processes and mountain building, and the types of data that are used to reconstruct the position of a particular plate in the geologic past
• Describe the regional stratigraphic framework of the Southern Nevada region and be able to go into a new region that has a well-exposed stratigraphic record and reconstruct the sedimentological history of the region
• Be facile in computer applications in geology, including spatial and imagery analysis applications, quantitative skills, and express themselves well in oral and written reports
• Apply the techniques of at least two specializations within the field of geology to the solution of appropriate research or applied problems
• Demonstrate the ability to function independently, collaboratively, and ethically with others in the profession as colleagues and supervisors
• Demonstrate the ability to enter a new field area, construct a geologic map on a topographic base, interpret the geologic history of the area, and write a professional-quality report on the geology of the area

B.S. in Earth and Environmental Science

The undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree in Earth and Environmental Science is a science-based program designed to prepare students for a range of challenging careers in the broad fields of environmental and geologic sciences, including science education. The degree program also provides a solid foundation for those looking to pursue advanced degrees in education, environmental studies, public policy, or law. Students can explore a wide range of sub-disciplines within the Earth Sciences, including:

• Geology
• Hydrology
• Soil science
• Climate change
• Natural resource development
• Sustainability Students can also choose to develop critical skills in field-based geologic techniques, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• Demonstrate the ability to recognize, formulate, employ, and interpret the scientific methodology through the completion of a research project
• Demonstrate the knowledge of major rock types, geologic time, evolution, and earth history events
• Demonstrate the knowledge in various specializations within the field of earth science to solve appropriate research or applied problems
• Demonstrate the ability to function independently, collaboratively, and ethically with others in the profession as colleagues and supervisors
• Demonstrate the written and verbal communications skills required to convey contemporary theories in earth science
• Demonstrate sufficient quantitative skills and proficiencies in computers and multi-media systems for application in the analysis and presentation of earth science concepts
• Demonstrate the ability to integrate accumulated skills and knowledge with a capstone experience, resulting in its presentation as part of the department's regularly scheduled Geosymposium research conference

Minors

Minor in Geology

The Geology Minor is appropriate for all students with interests in geoscience, especially for those who seek careers that may be enhanced by a background in geoscience, including biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this minor, students will have a solid understanding of the field of Geology and will be able to apply scientific reasoning to a variety of geological topics.

Minor in Earth and Environmental Science

The Earth & Environmental Science Minor is appropriate for all students with interests in the environment, especially for those who seek careers that may be enhanced by a background in Earth Science, including biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this minor, students will have a broad understanding of the topical area of Earth and Environmental Sciences and will be able to apply their understanding of the earth and its geologic and environmental processes to relevant topics of interest within their declared major.

Minor in Physical Geography

The Physical Geography minor is designed for students who desire a scientific understanding of the spatial aspects of the Earth System and analysis of spatial data. The minor emphasizes the four spheres of the Earth System: Atmosphere, Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, and Biosphere.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this minor, students will have a solid understanding of the field of Physical Geography and will be able to analyze spatial data through the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Students will also have an understanding of Earth System Science, allowing them to apply such concepts as climate change, evolution of the earth and life, geomorphology, and resource studies to relevant topics of interest within their declared major.