Explore Earth’s dynamic systems with a Geology degree from Portland State University. Study volcanology, earthquakes, climate change, and natural resources while gaining field and lab experience in the Pacific Northwest. Collaborate with community partners, prepare for state licensure, and build career pathways in environmental consulting, geotechnical engineering, natural resource management, and hazard mitigation.
PSU’s geology program invites you to study the processes that shape the Earth's physical environment, and discover how past events influence the present and future.
Our Geology program builds on a foundation of physics, chemistry and math to help you better understand earth systems and processes. You’ll also take engaging geology courses on topics like national parks, volcanoes and earthquakes, and energy, minerals and the environment.
Hands-On Fieldwork and Research Opportunities in the Pacific Northwest
You’ll take field trips to natural sites in the region, assist with exciting faculty research, participate in hands-on lab courses and collaborate with public and private organizations in the city and beyond. No matter your background, we’ll invite you into our diverse community and accessible, accommodating and supportive program.
Discover Your Focus: From Natural Resources to Geologic Hazards
Whether you're interested in natural resources, climate and land-use change or geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides and volcanic eruptions, our program will spark your curiosity and prepare you for an exciting and in-demand career.
Explore the Pacific Northwest: A Living Geology Laboratory
There’s no better classroom to study the Earth than the Pacific Northwest, a true geological paradise. You’ll enjoy unmatched opportunities to explore the region’s world-class geology, including extinct and active volcanoes, landslides, the Columbia River flood basalts, Mt. Hood’s glaciers and tsunami deposits along the coast.
Collaborate with Public and Private Organizations on Real-World Projects
Our location provides opportunities to work with community partners on meaningful projects. Our students have collaborated with the City of Portland, Oregon state departments, environmental consulting firms, K-12 institutions and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Leverage PSU’s Urban Location for Internships and Industry Connections
Our urban location keeps us well-connected with a strong, locally employed alumni network, who work at public and private organizations. Through these connections, you’ll build relationships and discover opportunities to participate in internships and research partnerships that will benefit your career.
Join PSU’s School of Earth, Environment and Society for Interdisciplinary Learning
When you major in geology, you’ll be part of PSU’s School of Earth, Environment and Society. This new school focuses on interdisciplinary teaching, learning and research that addresses the most pressing and complex issues facing the planet, and the people who call it home.
A geology degree from PSU will prepare you for careers that focus on hazards like landslides, earthquakes, tsunami and volcanoes. Our students also go on to work in:
- Environmental and geotechnical consulting
- Groundwater resource management
- Mining and regulation
- Natural hazard mitigation (landslides, earthquakes, volcanoes, etc.)
- Spatial analysis (GIS)
We even pay for students to take the state licensure exam to become a Registered Geologist, which allows you to publicly practice geology and access better job prospects.
Connect with a Strong Alumni Network and Career Support
Our alumni are employed at public and private organizations within the city and region. You’ll find them working in diverse roles at the:
- City of Portland, Bureau of Development Services
- Cornforth Consulting
- Delve Underground
- Federal Highways Administration
- GSI Water Solutions
- Oregon Water Science Center (USGS)
- Pacific Geophysics
PSU’s University Career Center connects geology students with internships, research opportunities and career pathways in environmental consulting, geotechnical engineering, natural resource management and a host of other fields.
Prepare for Graduate Studies and Specialized Geology Careers
Program graduates pursue advanced degrees at schools across the country, particularly in research-based programs that support original research on Pacific Northwest hazards, volcanism, tectonics and meteorites. PSU's program also gives you a strong foundation if you're interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers in teaching, science writing and editing or environmental law.
Start Your Geology Journey at Portland State University
- Study volcanology, geologic hazards and climate change
- Gain hands-on experience through fieldwork and research
- Prepare for careers in environmental science, geotechnical engineering and resource management
Apply to PSU’s Geology Program today.