Faculty: Misner

The Geology minor is a program in the Mathematics and Natural Sciences Area of Study.

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.

The Geology Minor

The Geology minor consists of 20 credits. At graduation, Geology minors must have a GPA of at least 2.0 in the minor. The calculation is based on the grades of all courses required for the minor. Only the most recent grade is considered for courses that have been repeated. Only one course may be taken on a Credit/No Credit basis. A maximum of 12 transfer credits may be counted toward the minor; exceptions must be approved by the department chair.