If you think you are interested in geology, enroll in GEOL 111G, a survey class that satisfies the General Education requirement for a lab science class. You would continue your degree with classes such as Fossils and the Evolution of Life (305G), Mineralogy (310), Stratigraphy and Sedimentology (420), Structural Geology (470), and Field Geology (490). Many classes involve field trips to local areas of interest, with optional field trips to places like the Grand Canyon.
Long-term class schedule (subject to change)
Geology Bachelor of Science requirements
Geological Sciences Minor Requirements
Employment in Geological Sciences
Geologists are involved in the exploration, development, and conservation of diminishing, nonrenewable water, energy, and mineral resources. More and more geologists are becoming involved in studies of eliminating geologic hazards (such as flooding, landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions) and in providing methods of disposing of chemical and nuclear waste materials. The reduction of marine erosion in coastal areas, soil conservation techniques, and pollution in soil and water are but a few problems being studied by geologists.
A career in Geology offers great challenges, excellent job opportunities, and personally satisfying rewards. Geoscientists gather and interpret data to understand the Earth and other planets. They use their knowledge to increase our understanding of earth processes and resources to improve the quality of human life. Their work and career paths vary widely because the geosciences cover a broad range of topics including the formation of mountains, the cause of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, climate change, water quality and supply, energy resources, and the evolution of the earth and the life on earth.
The employment outlook in the geosciences - as in any profession - varies with the economic climate of the country. The long-range outlook is good at this time. Dwindling energy, mineral, and water resources along with increasing concerns about the environment and natural hazards present new challenges to geoscientists. Current hot areas of employment in the geosciences include oil and gas exploration, climate change, geohydrology, and environmental geology.
Scholarships in the Department of Geological Sciences
All undergraduate majors are eligible for numerous scholarships from endowments and from the New Mexico Geological Society. These range from $100 book scholarships to full tuition scholarships. Talk to any of the Geology Faculty for details.Opportunities for Undergraduate Research
The Department of Geological Sciences has a program for undergraduate research known as URGE: Undergraduate Research for Geologic Experience. Contact Dr. Nancy McMillan for more information.
Information on the Geology Major from the Undergraduate Catalog
Sigma Gamma Epsilon Student Organization
Sigma Gamma Epsilon is devoted to the advancement of Earth sciences. It seeks to extend the relationships of its members with colleges, other universities, and scientific schools.The Society was established to recognize scholarship and professionalism in the Earth Sciences. It has for its objectives the scholastic, scientific, and professional advancement of its members and the extension of relations of friendship and assistance among colleges and universities which are devoted to the advancement of the Earth Sciences.
Members include both undergraduate and graduate students. For SGE information contact the geology department or visit these webpages:
NMSU SGE Webpage: http://www.nmsu.edu/~sge
National SGE Webpage: http://www.earth.uni.edu/SGE/