Geology: Geophysics, BS
for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Geology, Geophysics Concentration (Specialized Curriculum)
The Specialized Curriculum in Geology (BS) is designed for students who plan to pursue graduate study in geology or geophysics or who wish to work professionally in the environmental field upon obtaining the bachelor's degree. It consists of geology, geophysics, and environmental geology areas, and offers more training in geology and related science than is required of students who make geology their major in the Sciences and Letters Curriculum. Students must choose one of the following: Geology, Geophysics, or Environmental Geology.
Undergraduate Degree Programs in Geology
For the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Students select one of the following in consultation with an adviser:
- Major in Geology (Sciences and Letters)
- Major in Geology (Sciences and Letters), Earth and Environmental Sciences Concentration
- Major in Geology (Sciences and Letters), Earth Science Teaching Concentration
For the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Geology
Students select one of the following in consultation with an adviser:
for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Geology, Geophysics Concentration (Specialized Curriculum)
Graduation requires a grade point average of at least 2.0 overall and a 2.0 average in all required science and technical courses (geology, physics, mathematics, chemistry, and technical requirements listed below). The Department of Geology will supply upon request a Guide for Geology Undergraduates giving more information about the curriculum.
Departmental Distinction: Students majoring in Geology can earn distinction, high distinction, and highest distinction upon graduation. The requirements for these awards are:
- Distinction: A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.3, and have also completed an approved independent study project, approved senior thesis, or approved capstone
- High Distinction: A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5, and have also completed an approved independent study project, approved senior thesis, or approved capstone
- Highest Distinction: A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.7, and also completed an approved senior thesis or approved research capstone
General education: Students must complete the Campus General Education requirements including the campus general education language requirement.
Minimum hours required for graduation: 126 hours.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry: Select one group of courses: | 8-9 | |
| General Chemistry I | ||
| General Chemistry Lab I | ||
| General Chemistry II | ||
| General Chemistry Lab II | ||
or | ||
| Accelerated Chemistry I | ||
| Accelerated Chemistry Lab I | ||
| Accelerated Chemistry II | ||
| Accelerated Chemistry Lab II | ||
| 22 hours of Geology Courses | ||
| GEOL 107 | Physical Geology (Students who decide to follow the curriculum after first taking GEOL 100 should enroll in GEOL 208. GEOL 100 will be accepted as a substitute for GEOL 107, but students should be aware that these courses are not intended for science majors.) | 4 |
| GEOL 208 | History of the Earth System | 4 |
| GEOL 452 | Introduction to Geophysics | 4 |
| 10 additional hours of 300 or 400 level geology courses | 10 | |
| Mathematics | 16-18 | |
| Calculus | ||
or MATH 221 | Calculus I | |
| Calculus II | ||
| Calculus III | ||
| Introductory Matrix Theory | ||
or MATH 415 | Applied Linear Algebra | |
| Intro Differential Equations | ||
| Physics | 15-17 | |
| University Physics: Mechanics | ||
| University Physics: Elec & Mag | ||
| Univ Physics: Thermal Physics | ||
| Univ Physics: Quantum Physics | ||
Select one of the following: | ||
| Classical Mechanics I | ||
or | ||
| Introduction to Statics and Introductory Dynamics | ||
| Additional Technical Requirements | 13 | |
| Intro Computing: Engrg & Sci | ||
or CS 125 | Introduction to Computer Science | |
| Thermodynamics of Materials | ||
or PHYS 427 | Thermal & Statistical Physics | |
or CHEM 444 | Physical Chemistry II | |
Six hours of other 300- or 400-level science, math, or engineering courses selected with adviser approval. | ||
for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Geology, Geophysics Concentration (Specialized Curriculum)
Sample Sequence
This sample sequence is intended to be used only as a guide for degree completion. All students should work individually with their academic advisors to decide the actual course selection and sequence that works best for them based on their academic preparation and goals. Enrichment programming such as study abroad, minors, internships, and so on may impact the structure of this four-year plan. Course availability is not guaranteed during the semester indicated in the sample sequence.
Students must fulfill their Language Other Than English requirement by successfully completing a third level of a language other than English. See the corresponding section on the Degree and General Education Requirements page.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| Free Elective course | 1 |
| CHEM 102 - General Chemistry I or CHEM 202 - Accelerated Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHEM 103 - General Chemistry Lab I or CHEM 203 - Accelerated Chemistry Lab I | 2 |
| GEOL 107 - Physical Geology | 4 |
| Composition I or General Education course | 4 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 17 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| GEOL 208 - History of the Earth System | 4 |
| CHEM 104 - General Chemistry II or CHEM 204 - Accelerated Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM 105 - General Chemistry Lab II or CHEM 205 - Accelerated Chemistry Lab II | 1 |
| Composition I or General Education course | 3 |
| Language Other Than English (3rd level) | 4 |
| Semester Hours | 15 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| MATH 220 - Calculus or MATH 221 - Calculus I | 5 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 17 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| MATH 231 - Calculus II | 3 |
| CS 101 - Intro Computing: Engrg & Sci or CS 125 - Introduction to Computer Science | 4 |
| PHYS 211 - University Physics: Mechanics | 4 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 2 |
| Semester Hours | 16 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| Geology 300-400 level course | 3 |
| MATH 241 - Calculus III | 4 |
| PHYS 212 - University Physics: Elec & Mag | 4 |
| 300-400 level Science, Math, or Engineering course | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 17 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| GEOL 452 - Introduction to Geophysics | 4 |
| MATH 225 - Introductory Matrix Theory or MATH 415 - Applied Linear Algebra | 3 |
| PHYS 213 - Univ Physics: Thermal Physics | 2 |
| PHYS 214 - Univ Physics: Quantum Physics | 2 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 14 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| MSE 401 - Thermodynamics of Materials, PHYS 427 - Thermal & Statistical Physics, or CHEM 444 - Physical Chemistry II | 3 |
| Geology 300-400 level course | 4 |
| PHYS 325 - Classical Mechanics I or TAM 210 - Introduction to Statics | 2 |
| MATH 285 - Intro Differential Equations | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 15 |
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| 300-400 level Science, Math, or Enginering course | 3 |
| Geology 300-400 level course | 3 |
| TAM 212 - Introductory Dynamics (or Free Elective course) | 3 |
| General Education course | 3 |
| Free Elective course | 3 |
| Semester Hours | 15 |
Total Hours: 126
for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Geology, Geophysics Concentration (Specialized Curriculum)
- Students will develop cross-disciplinary skills of observation, data collection, and spatial display of data (e.g., map making) related to geological materials, features, and processes. Upon completing this program, students will be able to analyze the Earth as a complex system and evaluate the interconnectedness of Earth systems and their effects on each other. Students will be able to analyze the causes and impacts of the Earth’s changing climate over various time scales and evaluate the environmental, social, and geological impacts of these changes. Students will be able to analyze complex geological processes and their interconnectedness with environmental systems on geologic and real timescales, applying spatial analyses in 3D (and 4D), using direct field observations coupled with geologic interpretation and synthesis.
- Students will develop an understanding of the physical, chemical, and mathematical theories fundamental to Earth processes through rigorous coursework and research. Upon program completion, students will be able to analyze and solve mathematical and computational problems encountered in geoscience research and professional practice. Students will be able to analyze and interpret geologic structure including geologic timescales, and tectonic and deformation processes and their hazard potentials. Students will be able to interpret the chemical and mechanical processes involved within each stage of the rock cycle. Students will be able to recognize key surface processes and their connection to geological features, including potential hazards. Students will be able to analyze and interpret the chemical and mechanical processes involved in the Water Cycle and evaluate water as a critical natural resource.
- Students will develop and apply critical thinking skills to synthesize principles learned in the classroom and data collected in the laboratory and in the field in order to evaluate hypotheses and solve geological and Earth science problems. Upon completion of this program, students will be able to carry out geological data collection and analysis in the field and/or lab, in independent and team working environments. Students will have the strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to effectively analyzing and solving complex geologic problems. They will be able to navigate non-unique answers and make informed decisions based on evidence.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate scientific data, interpretations, and hypotheses through written and oral methods. Upon completion, Students will be proficient in communicating science verbally and in writing and be able to tailor their written and verbal communication to different audiences. Students will have developed good listening skills and the ability to carry on an interactive dialogue with their colleagues.
- Students will hone and apply interpersonal skills in a professional setting through group work, research activities, and field studies. Upon completing this program, students will be able to work in professional and academic group settings as productive members of a team to solve complex geologic and Earth science problems.
for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Geology, Geophysics Concentration (Specialized Curriculum)
Department of Earth Science & Environmental Change
Geology website
geology@illinois.edu
Geology faculty
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