BSc Geology

Geology and earth science address critical issues such as energy, water and mineral resources, climate, natural hazards, oceanography, environmental monitoring and cleanup, and much, much more! Geologists work in a variety of settings, including in natural resource companies, environmental consulting companies, government agencies. The program is offered at Portland State University.

Many geologists do field work at least part of the time. Others spend their time in laboratories, classrooms or offices. Employment opportunities for geologists are very good. Most geology graduates with a strong academic background and good grades have no trouble finding employment if they are willing to move to a location where work is available. Over the next decade the number of geology job openings is expected to exceed the number of students graduating from university geology programs. A degree in geology or earth science also provides a solid foundation for those interested in careers in middle or secondary science education, science writing and editing and environmental law.

The Department of Geology offers programs leading to the bachelor’s degree in geology, as well as studies in numerical modeling, geochemistry, geomicrobiology, hydrogeology, engineering geology, planetary geology, and environmental geology.

The programs serve both majors in geology and non-majors: those who may wish to broaden their science background; those preparing to teach general or earth sciences or geology in elementary or secondary schools; and those preparing for a master’s or a doctoral degree.

Post-baccalaureate students (with a bachelor’s degree, not in geology) who wish to become professional geologists may complete this curriculum while doing both undergraduate and graduate work in geology.

Geologists are employed by government agencies at federal, state, county, and city levels; by independent consulting firms to work with engineers, architects and planners; in the construction, mining, and petroleum industries; and as teachers in elementary and high schools and at the college level.

Geologists who have graduated from PSU are employed, for example, in mitigation of environmental problems, assessment of ground and surface water resources, development of and exploration for mineral and fuel resources, management of mineral and fuel resources on private and public lands, urban planning, GIS, evaluation of the effects of forest roads and quarries on watershed health, management of their own companies, and instruction at all educational levels.

Your Potential To Be Exponential

At Portland State University , you feel like you’re part of a movement. The kind that keeps your classmates rooting for you and your professors pulling for you. You’ll form bonds with faculty and friends in small classes that dive deep into the issues that matter most to you. We are proud to be one of the nation’s most transformative universities. Because every time your success inspires others, you change the world.