Program Overview
Introduction to the Geology Major
The Geology Major at Ball State University is designed for students who enjoy exploring the outdoors, understanding how things work, and applying their skills in practical ways. This major prepares students for careers in industry and government agencies, as well as for graduate study leading to research, teaching, management, and other positions.
What You Will Learn
As a geology major, you will learn about a wide variety of topics in geology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and other sciences. Some of the specific topics you will study include:
- Computer modeling of geological and environmental processes
- Composition analysis
- Movement of elements into soil and water systems
- How to conduct sample tests and checks
- How to interpret a variety of data and analyze results
Program Benefits
The Geology Major at Ball State University offers several benefits, including:
Quality Faculty
You will learn from well-educated, noted scholars in the field of geology. Our faculty have experience in all areas of the U.S. and internationally, with detailed knowledge in areas such as:
- Minerals
- Igneous and metamorphic rocks
- Sedimentary rocks
- Fossils
- Petroleum geology
- Environmental geology
- Earthquakes and volcanoes
- Landform geomorphology
- River processes
- Groundwater hydrology
- Environmental site assessment
- Geophysics
- Geochemistry
- Water quality
- Earth/space science teaching
Travel and Fieldwork
You can expect to experience the world of geology firsthand through fieldwork and other travel opportunities in locations such as:
- Indiana
- Adjacent states
- The Appalachian Mountains
- Canada
- West Texas
- The Gulf Coast
- Colorado
- New England
- Puerto Rico You will also participate in a five-week summer field course in the Black Hills of South Dakota and northern Wyoming, where you will prepare geologic maps and cross sections, stratigraphic columns, and technical reports.
Small Class Sizes
Almost all geology courses (except for the introductory course) average only about 15 students, allowing you to work directly with and learn from our highly regarded faculty.
Comprehensive Facilities
Our facilities provide an excellent learning environment, including:
- Spacious work areas
- Faculty and student research laboratories
- Up-to-date equipment
- Dedicated computer lab
- Exhibit areas
- Full electronic classroom facilities
Major Requirements
Your course of study will include the University Core Curriculum, 68 to 70 credits of geology-focused coursework, and electives to round out your degree. Two preparatory courses are recommended but not required before declaring this major:
- A high school or college earth science course, or GEOL 101 with an approved geology lab
- MATH 112 or the high school equivalent, as approved by the primary departmental advisor We encourage you to pursue a modern foreign language to complement this degree.
Recommended Minors
Some recommended minors for geology majors include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer science
- Economics
- Geography
- Mathematics
- Natural resources
Total Credits
The total credits required for the Geology Major are 120.
Courses
Some of the courses you will take as a geology major include:
- Earth Materials
- Sedimentary Geology
- Structural Geology Tectonics
- Physical Hydrology
- Field Camp capstone course
Career Opportunities
Our bachelor's degree in geology equips you for a variety of roles, including:
- Geologist
- Groundwater hydrogeologist
- Professional consultant
- Teacher
- Professor
- Engineering geologist
- Resource manager
- Environmental scientist
- Petroleum geologist
- GIS mapping specialist You will be qualified to work in areas such as:
- Environmental and engineering geology
- Hydrogeology and groundwater protection
- Energy resource exploration and development
- State and national governmental agencies
- Consulting firms
Graduate School Opportunities
If your educational and career goals include graduate school, know that our students have been accepted into top graduate schools at universities such as Montana State, Arizona State University, and the University of Nevada-Reno.