Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor of Science in Geology and Geophysics

The geology and geophysics undergraduate program at Missouri S&T offers a unique blend of geoscience courses and emphasis areas that are designed for your success in pursuing careers in areas such as petroleum, mining, environmental, and consulting and regulation.

During your first two years of study in geology and geophysics, some of the courses you will take are chemistry, physics, mathematics and computer science. In your junior and senior years, you will take more specialized geoscience courses pertaining to your emphasis area.

Our bachelor of science degree in geology and geophysics requires a minimum of 127 credit hours.  You will be expected to average at least a 2.0 GPA and must obtain a letter grade of "C" or better in all geology and geophysics courses.  The degree plan includes a core curriculum of 40 credit hours of geology and geophysics courses combined with 15 credit hours in one of the chosen emphasis areas, including Geochemistry, General Geology, Geophysics, Groundwater and Environmental Chemistry, and Petroleum Geology.

For more information, check out the university catalog:

bachelor of science in geology and geophysics

Experiential learning at Missouri S&T refers to learning stimulated by a variety of structured activities that differ significantly from the traditional lecture format. Experiential learning activities are designed to require you to go beyond mastering basic skills and knowledge in the application of that material to problem solving challenges. These activities involve collaboration and reflective learning and allow students to learn in environments that align with their aptitudes.

Course flow charts can help you map out your undergraduate curriculum. Use the charts as a reference when enrolling in classes for the semester. If you have any questions, consult your advisor.

View Degree Flowchart

Minors and Emphasis Areas

Our one minor and five different emphasis areas help you focus on your interests and career goals. Complete 18 credit hours of approved courses for the geology minor and 15 credit hours of approved courses to establish an emphasis area.

The geology minor consists of 18 hours of geology-related coursework that must include GEOLOGY 2611 and one of the following: GEOLOGY 1110 or GEO ENG 1150 or GEOLOGY 1120. Six additional hours of coursework must come from any combination of 1000, 2000 and 3000 geology courses.

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An emphasis in geochemistry focuses on coursework related to the collection and chemical characterization of natural earth minerals, including groundwater, surface water, soils, rocks and minerals, and oil and gas.

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The purpose of the emphasis area in general geology is to give you a broad overview of the different types of geoscience applications and possible careers.  Courses in this emphasis area range from those dealing with industries like petroleum, mining, paleontology and geography.

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The geophysics emphasis area focuses on how the principles of physics, including gravity, waves and magnetic fields, interact with Earth.  Geophysics is important for understanding large-scale features of the Earth, such as it's structure and movement, including earthquakes.  This emphasis is also important for your understanding of smaller-scale features dealing with deep (e.g., oil and gas) and shallow (e.g., buried pipes, water tables, building foundations, etc.) sub-surface exploration.  

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The emphasis on groundwater and environmental geochemistry focuses on coursework related to your understanding of groundwater systems, including how to characterize and measure the physical and chemical nature of groundwater, including potential pollutants.

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The petroleum geology emphasis area will provide you with a detailed understanding of the generation, migration and geologic storage of oil and gas.  This includes coursework related to the exploration of hydrocarbons and will prepare you for your career in this rapidly advancing industry.

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Apply for Admissions

To apply for admission to Missouri S&T, choose the selection below that best describes your application status.

Contact Admissions for more information.

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