Undergraduate

Explore Majors & Minors

Are you a four-dimensional thinker and a problem solver? Do you question the processes that formed the landscape around you, on other planets, or wonder how our landscape will change with time? Geology is the study of Earth and planets, and the processes that act on them through time. Geologists use a broad toolkit including physics, chemistry, and mathematics to answer questions of Earth's paleoclimate, earthquake, landslide, and volcanic hazards, and even formation of the Universe.

Connect with Faculty Advisor

Our faculty can help you map out your Geology course plan, depending on your interests and goals.

Schedule an Appointment

Transferring to PSU?

If you're planning to transfer to PSU and considering a major in geology, use this guide as a starting place for understanding what is required and helping you plan your community college courses in advance of transferring.

Transfer Guide

Courses

Geology courses are full of learning, fun, and adventure. Take a look at what we offer.

Geology Major & Minor

As a geology major, you'll explore and understand the Earth's physical and environmental processes and learn how events and processes of the past can influence the present and future.

Earth Science Major

As an earth sciences major, you'll gain foundational knowledge about the Earth's materials, evolution, resources, and sustainability.

Earth Data Science Minor

By minoring in Earth Data Science at PSU, you'll become familiar with software and hardware for collecting, processing, analyzing, and presenting data that is critical to solving problems in geology.

Environmental Geology Minor

PSU's minor in environmental geology provides you with an understanding of natural hazards and related land-use planning, waste disposal and pollution in the geological environment, water supply, mineral and energy resources, and the impacts of climate change.

Space and Planetary Science Minor

Space and planetary science is interdisciplinary in nature, making the minor an excellent supplement to a variety of fields, from chemistry and physics to geology and astronomy.

Explore Undergrad Research

No matter where you want to work after graduating, an authentic research experience on your resume makes you stand out from the crowd of job seekers. The Geology Department offers four avenues for undergraduate research experiences.

Research Opportunities

Join a Student Group

Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists (AEG)

The Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists (AEG) provides learning opportunities focused on applied geology that will help prepare you for becoming a practicing geologist. At AEG meetings, you can receive information about the types of work being done in the fields of environmental, engineering, and hydro-geology. You can learn about these areas of practice and the wide variety of job types and career opportunities. AEG also facilitates networking opportunities with local agency and industry professionals. The visiting professional program brings industry & academic professionals as guest lectures. The K-12 outreach program supports the academic success of children and youth by expressing the importance of math, chemistry, writing, and how those core subjects are related to and are applied to economic and environmental issues within space, planetary, and natural sciences through leading field trips, classroom activities, and guest lectures.
Contact: aegeol@pdx.edu
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Coriba Geology Club

We unite students in curiosity and interest in the geosciences, promotion of the PSU Geology department, and work to further enhance and advance the educational growth of all members.
Contact: coribagc@pdx.edu
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