Geology majors at Northwest study the solid portion of the Earth. Faculty focus on three core areas: rocks and minerals, the surface process that shapes the Earth, and tectonic forces that have occurred in the scale of geologic time.

By studying rocks and minerals composing the solid Earth, students learn where and how they are used daily. The surface process that shapes the Earth focuses on how rivers and glaciers sculpt the land, ultimately influencing soils, farming and national parks. Through the study of tectonic forces, students learn the history of Earth, its internal processes and gain an understanding of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Comprehensive majors in geology study the earth, rocks and the evolution of the earth. Faculty focus on three core areas: paleontology, the study of fossils, the evolution of life and ancient environments; sedimentology, the study of sedimentary rocks, and the environments and process in which they develop; and stratigraphy, the study of rock unit’s relationship to space and time.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

100% of students graduating with a comprehensive major in geology either continue their education or find employment within six months after graduation. Jobs related to this major include: Associate Geologist; Mine Geologist; Program Planner; Project Manager; Registered Professional Geologist; Science Teacher; Economic Geologists; Environmental Geologist; Geology Teacher; Petroleum Geologist.