Geology Minor Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete a minor in Geology are expected to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of: the physical and chemical properties of the lithosphere and hydrosphere (minerals, rocks, soils, and water); geologic time and earth history; and crustal materials and dynamics in the context of plate tectonics theory;
• Demonstrate competence in fundamental geological skills and quantitative analysis including: mineral, rock, and soil identification; interpretation of topographic and geologic maps and cross-sections with basics of three-dimensional conceptualization; and the ability to collect and interpret field and laboratory observations;
• Effectively communicate knowledge and interpretations using written, oral, and graphical skills on both a formal and an extemporaneous basis;
• Gain an understanding of the societal relevance of earth systems.