More About GEOL BS/BA
More about Geology BS and BA
AOES offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Geology. These degree programs aims to provide students with both high-quality conceptual knowledge and hands-on training in the earth sciences in preparation for careers within the earth-science field or graduate school.
The Bachelor of Science in Geology has a long tradition of undergraduate geology education providing a basic, yet rigorous, integrated curriculum for its majors. The program teaches higher-level critical thinking, and skills essential to addressing earth-science problems. Currently there are five concentrations offered within this degree: Earth Surface Processes; Environmental Geoscience; Geology; Oceanography and Estuarine Science; and Paleontology.
Geology BS Concentrations
The concentrations in Earth Surface Processes, Environmental Geoscience, Geology, and Paleontology are solely offered by the Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences. The concentration in Oceanography and Estuarine science is offered jointly with the Department of Environmental Science and Policy, where specific advising is also available.
Concentration in Earth Surface Processes (EP)
This concentration focuses on a broad understanding of the physical processes and natural materials found at or near the Earth's surface that have produced the primary landforms and landscapes observed today. Fundamental concepts, methods and techniques of landscape analysis are also examined.
Concentration in Environmental Geoscience (EVGS)
This concentration provides the tools for applying geologic information (on soils, rocks, water, weather, and landscapes) to contemporary environmental problems (including: pollution, waste management, resource extraction, natural hazards, land-use, habitat restoration, species preservation, and human health). Environmental geoscience studies the physical environment in which biological interactions take place, whereby aiding the understanding of ecology.
Concentration in Geology (GEOL)
This concentration is fashioned after traditional geology bachelor's degrees. It allows graduates to be employed as geologists in the field or to pursue graduate studies in geology.
Concentration in Oceanography and Estuarine Science (OEST)
This concentration provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of oceanography. Additional coursework in physical and chemical oceanography give insight into the aquatic environment and its link to both ecosystems and climate. Within the concentration, students can choose an Open Ocean or Coastal Ocean option. The curriculum will emphasize local and regional case studies, in particular the Chesapeake Bay. The program will provide students with the basic training required to allow them to obtain entry level positions in oceanographic and estuarine career tracks or an appropriate graduate degree program.
Concentration in Paleontology (PLEO)
This concentration focuses on a broad understanding of Earth's history and the evolution of life on Earth as revealed through the fossil record. Fundamental concepts, methods and techniques of historical geology and paleontological data and analysis are also examined. This concentration may not be taken in conjunction with the Paleontology Minor.