Introduction to the Summer Field Camp

The Summer Geology Field Course is an exciting capstone experience for the Geology major at the University of Nevada, Reno. This 3-credit course takes place over roughly three weeks. The exact schedule changes each year, with the 2026 course dates spanning from May 22 to June 11.

Course Information

• Course Title: Geology 451 (3-semester credits)
• 2026 Fees: $2,500 (non-resident fees also apply for out-of-state students)
• Course Description: The course involves several field exercises in California and/or Nevada that center around the geologic themes of the North American Cordillera and Basin and Range extension. This course will involve camping for the entire duration of the camp.

Prerequisites

Courses in mineralogy/petrology, sedimentology/stratigraphy, structural geology, and field methods are required. If a student is lacking one or more of these courses, it may still be possible to attend camp by discussing individual situations with the Field Camp Director.

Field Camp Details

• The focus of the course is to develop advanced field skills, including rock description, generation of geologic maps, and illustrating the geometries of deformed rocks with cross-sections.
• Through a series of mapping-based exercises, field camp students will gain the ability to understand complex field relations in three dimensions.
• The course is divided into several approximately week-long topical geologic mapping exercises, with specific themes including Quaternary, bedrock, metamorphic, and igneous geology.
• These exercises will build the students' broad knowledge regarding the geologic history of western North America from the Paleozoic to the present.

Weather and Logistics

• In mountainous areas of eastern Nevada, students can expect cool evenings and warm to hot days in May and June.
• Sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear are essential due to the possibility of spring rains and afternoon thunderstorms.
• The course will take place in eastern Nevada, away from Reno, for the entire duration of the class, with camping accommodations for the students.

Faculty

The Summer Field Camp faculty includes:

• Andrew V. Zuza, Associate Professor and Field Camp Director
• Joel Scheingross, Associate Professor
• Wenrong Cao, Associate Professor
• Philipp Ruprecht, Associate Professor

Recent Former Instructors

• Mike Darin
• Rich Koehler
• Tom Anderson

Field Camp Alumni

Students from all over the U.S. participate each year, representing a wide range of institutions, including:

• Arizona State University
• Boston University
• Case Western Reserve
• CCNY
• Central Michigan University
• Clemson University
• Colby College
• College of Charleston
• CSU Bakersfield
• Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
• Grand Valley State University
• Harvard University
• Keene State College
• Muskingum College, Texas
• Pacific Lutheran College
• Portland State University
• Sacramento State University
• Saint Lawrence College
• San Francisco State University
• San Jose State University
• Sonoma State University
• Southern Mississippi University
• Texas A&M University
• UCLA
• University of Alaska, Fairbanks
• University of Arkansas
• University of Delaware
• University of Maine
• University of Maryland
• University of Nebraska, Omaha
• University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• University of New Hampshire
• University of North Carolina
• University of Puget Sound
• University of Southern California
• Vanderbilt University
• Washington University
• Whitman College
• Whittier College

Transcripts

Upon completing the course, students can obtain official transcripts through the university's registrar office.

University of Nevada, Reno

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Overview:

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is Nevada's first university, established in 1874. It is a public research university located in Reno, Nevada, and is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering student success. UNR is ranked among U.S. News & World Report's Best National Universities.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UNR offers a vibrant campus experience with a variety of activities and opportunities for students to engage in. Students can participate in student organizations, attend sporting events, enjoy the beautiful campus, and explore the surrounding area. The university also provides access to resources such as the E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center and the Wolf Pack Map, an online campus map for navigation and information.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong academic programs:

UNR offers a wide range of academic programs with expert faculty in a supportive learning environment.

Beautiful campus and location:

The university is located in Reno, Nevada, a city known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Vibrant student life:

UNR offers a variety of activities and opportunities for students to engage in, both on and off campus.

Commitment to student success:

The university is dedicated to providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

UNR is known for its strong research programs, particularly in the areas of mining, engineering, and environmental science. The university also has a strong commitment to community engagement and outreach.