Program Overview
Geological Sciences
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Earth Sciences
Majors
- Geological Sciences BA
- Geological Sciences BS
Combined
- Geological Sciences BA/Earth Sciences Adolescence Education EdM
Minor
- Geological Sciences Minor
What will I learn?
As a geological sciences student, you will explore the forces that shape our planet. You will typically take classes in chemistry, calculus, and physics, as well as geology and related subjects. Hands-on labs will allow you to study specimens up close and learn how to use specialized tools.
Geological Sciences BA vs. BS
- The BA is a flexible major for students who are thinking about teaching geology, practicing environmental law, or doing something related to the field.
- The BS is a more in-depth program, designed for students who want to be geologists.
What can I do outside of class?
- Field trips: View glacial deposits and rock formations at local and regional parks, typically during lab periods or on weekends.
- Field camp: Apply your skills during this four-week summer program, usually held in the Western U.S.
- Exploration: From the Niagara Gorge to Letchworth Park, you’ll find jaw-dropping sites a short drive from campus.
- Student groups: Learn about the environment, have outdoor adventures, and more through UB's student clubs.
- Research: Undergrads can work directly with faculty.
- Study abroad: Get a fresh perspective on geology (and life).
What can I do with a geological sciences degree?
Our alumni have served as a Mars mission simulation astronaut for NASA, overseen the No. 1 fossil park in the U.S., monitored volcanoes, captured hazardous waste, and co-discovered a hydrothermal field in the Pacific Ocean, to name just a few of their accomplishments. In fact, geoscientists work in an incredible range of positions, including:
- Environmental consultant
- Exploration geophysicist
- Geologist
- Geographic information system (GIS) spatial analyst
- Geophysicist
- Hydrogeologist
- Oceanographer
- Oil and gas drilling technician
- Petroleum geologist
- Public information officer
- Science teacher
A degree in geological sciences opens doors to work for a government agency like the Bureau of Land Management or U.S. Geological Survey, or for a private company, including many different types of consulting firms.
Who will I learn from?
Our faculty members have earned the title of SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor, among many other honors. They are members of the Geological Society of America and other leading professional organizations, have been published in top journals including "Science," and have been recognized by the National Science Foundation, to name just some of their many accomplishments.
Program Outline
Geological Sciences - Undergraduate Academic Programs - University at Buffalo
Degree Overview:
- Focus: Understanding the forces that shape our planet, including landslides, mineral classification, fossil identification.
- Program Options: BA (flexible, good for related fields) and BS (in-depth, focused on becoming a geologist).
- Curriculum: Includes coursework in chemistry, calculus, physics, geology, and related subjects, with hands-on labs for practical experience.
- Distinguishing Features:
- Field trips to local and regional parks for studying geological formations.
- Four-week summer field camp program, typically in the Western U.S.
- Proximity to remarkable geological sites like the Niagara Gorge and Letchworth Park.
- Opportunities for student involvement in research and study abroad programs.
Outline:
- Coursework: Includes general science courses like chemistry, calculus, and physics, and geology-specific courses like mineralogy, petrology, and structural geology.
- Hands-on Labs: Focus on using specialized tools for studying geological specimens, analyzing data, and conducting experiments.
- Fieldwork:
- Field Trips: Regularly organized during lab periods or weekends to local and regional parks for studying various geological formations.
- Field Camp: A four-week intensive program, usually held in the Western U.S. during the summer, for applying geological skills and techniques in a real-world setting.
- Research: opportunities for undergraduate students to work directly with faculty on research projects.
- Study Abroad: Programs available for gaining diverse geological perspectives and cultural experiences.
Assessment:
- Methods used may include written exams, laboratory reports, field-based exercises, presentations, and research projects.
- Specific criteria and weighting for each assessment method might vary across different courses and program options.
Teaching:
- Experienced faculty with a passion for geology and dedication to mentoring students.
- Many faculty members hold prestigious titles like SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor.
- Active researchers engaged in various projects around the globe.
- Members of leading professional organizations and published in renowned journals like "Science."
Careers:
- Graduates pursue diverse careers in various sectors, including:
- Environmental consulting
- Exploration geophysics
- Geology
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Geophysics
- Hydrogeology
- Oceanography
- Oil and gas drilling
- Petroleum geology
- Public information
- Science teaching
- Employment opportunities can be found in government agencies like the Bureau of Land Management or U.S. Geological Survey, private companies including consulting firms, and educational institutions.
Other:
- The program also provides opportunities for students to engage in various student clubs related to the environment and outdoor exploration.
- Graduates have achieved remarkable accomplishments, including serving as astronauts in Mars mission simulations, overseeing prestigious fossil parks, and co-discovering hydrothermal fields. Please note: This response is based on the information provided in the context. If you require further details about any specific aspect of the program, please refer to the official website of the Geological Sciences Department at the University at Buffalo.
University at Buffalo
Overview:
University at Buffalo (UB) is a public research university located in Buffalo, New York. It is consistently recognized as one of the world's most exceptional and affordable universities, making it a top choice for students and faculty globally. UB is New York State's flagship university and is known for its commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UB offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student clubs and organizations. Students can enjoy Division I basketball games, kayaking on the on-campus lake, and a variety of other activities. The university encourages students to share their "True Blue" pride and wear blue on Fridays.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Exceptional Academics:
UB offers over 500 degree programs with world-renowned faculty.Research Opportunities:
As a top 40 public research university, UB provides students with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and tackle complex challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Environment:
UB fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.Affordable Education:
UB is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable universities in the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UB offers a wide range of activities and opportunities for students to engage in both on and off campus.Academic Programs:
UB has 13 schools and colleges, including:
- Architecture and Planning
- Arts and Sciences
- Dental Medicine
- Education
- Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
- Law
- Management
- Nursing
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Public Health and Health Professions
- Roswell Park Graduate Division
- Social Work
Other:
UB is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its climate action efforts. The university has a 12:1 student/faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention and support.
Entry Requirements:
The provided context does not explicitly mention any specific entry requirements for the Geological Sciences program at the University at Buffalo. However, it does mention that the program is designed for students who are interested in science and math, and that students will typically take classes in chemistry, calculus, and physics. it is reasonable to assume that some level of proficiency in these subjects will be required for admission. Additionally, the program description mentions that students will need to take classes in geology and related subjects, so it is likely that some prior knowledge of geology would be beneficial.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The provided context does not mention any language proficiency requirements for the Geological Sciences program at the University at Buffalo. However, since the University at Buffalo is located in the United States, it is likely that English proficiency would be required for admission.
