Geology Program

Geology is the science devoted to the study of the Earth.  Subjects include the origins of minerals and rocks that make up the crust and mantle of the planet,  processes that shape the surface landscape, the cycle of plate tectonics and resulting dynamic events such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.  Geologists use principles from disciplines such as chemistry and physics to determine how the Earth has changed through time and to understand the origins of continents, ocean basins and the atmosphere.  Geologic research is particularly relevant to environmental studies and the search for economically important energy and mineral resources. 

The geology track offers a series of courses that provide a broad foundation for students who wish to pursue a career in the geological sciences or continue on to graduate study in the field.  The major also provides excellent training for students interested in teaching earth science. 

  Sedimentology students examine Triassic age dinosaur tracks exposed in the Culpeper Quarry