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Geology, BS

The Bachelor of Science degree in Geology prepares students for positions in earth science related professions especially in the petroleum and mining industries, the environmental industry, for graduate studies and teaching. The Geology curriculum provides students with an excellent theoretical and practical background, but is not so narrowly focused as to limit opportunities in a rapidly changing marketplace. The department leans heavily on subsurface studies using drill cuttings, core, petrophysical logs, and geophysical data because rocks do not crop out in the Permian Basin. Many courses also have a strong field component that leads students to rock outcrops in the nearby mountainous areas.

 

Competencies

Upon completion of the Geology program, students will be able to:

  1. Scientific Problem Solving
    Identify, formulate, and solve broadly defined scientific problems by applying principles of mathematics and science to the geological sciences.
  2. Scientific Communication
    Communicate geological concepts, data, and interpretations effectively to a range of audiences using appropriate scientific conventions.
  3. Experimental Design and Data Analysis
    Develop and conduct experiments or test hypotheses, analyze and interpret geological data, and use scientific judgment to draw valid conclusions.
  4. Systems and Project Design
    Formulate and design geological systems, processes, procedures, or programs to meet specified project objectives and needs.
  5. Ethical and Professional Responsibility
    Demonstrate an understanding of ethical and professional responsibilities in geology and evaluate the impact of scientific solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
  6. Geologic Time and Fossil Interpretation
    Accurately determine geologic ages using fossil evidence and stratigraphic relationships.
  7. Energy Resources and Earth Systems
    Interpret present and future energy resources used by society and characterize the geological features associated with those resources.
  8. Reservoir Characterization
    Recognize and differentiate Permian Basin reservoirs using core descriptions and well log interpretations, and distinguish reservoir from non‑reservoir formations.