Program Overview

Introduction to the Geological Engineering Program

The Geological Engineering program at the University of Utah is a unique and interdisciplinary field that combines geology and engineering to address complex problems. Geological engineers are trained to work across disciplinary boundaries, linking science and society.

Program Overview

The program provides broad training, enabling graduates to pursue career paths in civil or mining engineering, geothermal and petroleum energy development, water resources, and environmental remediation.

Program Highlights

• The median salary for geological engineers across the US in 2023 was $100,640.
• The program is one of only 13 nationwide.
• The degree is ABET accredited, preparing graduates to become licensed, practicing engineers.
• The program is over 70 years old.
• Faculty expertise spans geologic hazards, groundwater remediation, geotechnical engineering, and carbon sequestration.
• Scholarships are available to enrolled undergraduates.
• Graduates can become licensed professional engineers (P.E.) and geologists (P.G.).
• Program highlights include small class sizes, field trips, multidisciplinary education, research, and internship opportunities.
• 5th year and professional master degree options are available.

Career Paths

Fields in need of Geological Engineers include:

• Civil engineering
  • slope stability analysis
  • seismic risk analysis
  • assessment and mitigation of geologic hazards
• Development of natural resources
  • petroleum exploration & production
  • minerals industry
• Water resources
  • characterization of groundwater supplies
  • contaminant transport investigation
  • contaminated subsurface remediation

Mission Statement

The mission of the Geology & Geophysics staff is to provide the highest standards of support, service, management, accounting, and other office-related functions to students, faculty, other departments, and the University community, promoting harmony, growth, and development of the department through friendliness, integrity, reliability, and professionalism.

Program Outcomes

The program outcomes are:

1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
3. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, considering the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
5. An ability to function effectively on a team, providing leadership, creating a collaborative and inclusive environment, establishing goals, planning tasks, and meeting objectives.
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Program Educational Objectives

The program educational objectives are:

1. Graduates will utilize their backgrounds in engineering and earth science to provide solutions to engineering problems within the context of the natural world.
2. As an engineer, the graduate will obtain professional engineer licensure and participate in professional societies and continuing education activities to improve their professional stature.
3. As an academic researcher and teacher, the graduate will expand the knowledge and application of applied earth science and engineering to the betterment of society and convey this knowledge to students at all levels of their study.
4. Graduates will maintain a professional environment that fosters honesty, integrity, and a strong engineering and work ethic.

Accreditation

The geological engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.