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Geology

Gain a foundational understanding of issues in the earth sciences and explore skills and concepts core to success in industry or environmental management, as well as the study of earth systems processes.

Geology – B.S. in Earth Sciences, Geology Emphasis

Students within the Geology program at Montana State learn to apply the principles of chemistry, physics and mathematics to the study of the Earth’s surface and interior. Coursework spans core topics in earth sciences and include subjects such as mineralogy, sedimentation and stratigraphy, structural geology, global tectonics and sedimentary petrology. In addition to this, Geology students also gain important skills in field methodology and take a capstone field geology course prior to graduation.

The Earth Science major at Montana State offers four additional Options Within the Major: Geography, Geographic Information Science (GIS)/Planning, Paleontology and Snow Science.

 

 

Geology students at Montana State are able to learn from experts in the field, such as professor Mary Hubbard, whose geology team’s expedition to the Himalayas to collect core samples was featured In the short film “History is in the Mud” by National Geographic.

 

 

An illustration of a geyser mid-eruption.

University of the Yellowstone™
Montana State students make the surrounding Yellowstone ecosystem their classroom, laboratory and playground.

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Community Connections
The Department of Earth Sciences has connections at various local, state and federal planning agencies within Montana and throughout the West.

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Unique Opportunities
As Montana's premier research institution, Montana State offers unparalleled access to hands-on experiences in research labs, art studios, teaching farms and the surrounding wilderness.

 

 

 

Career Resources

Within their first year of graduation, more than 96% of Montana State graduates are employed, continuing their education or not seeking employment, and career guidance website Zippia consistently ranks MSU as the #1 school in the state where alumni are most likely to land jobs.

Career Coaching & Professional Skills Studio

Professional career coaches help students with their career exploration, employer networking opportunities and job or internship searches. They also critique resumes and help students practice job interviews. Additionally, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success offers free workshops for students to develop the professional communication and collaboration skills that are highly sought after by employers.

Careers

Geology students at Montana State University go into careers such as:

  • Petroleum/Mining Geologist
  • Paleontologist
  • Seismologist
  • Hydrologist
  • Environmental Clean-Up Management

To explore more career possibilities, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success has a variety of tools available , including self-assessment and working with career coaches.