Degrees in Geology

In the Department of Geology and Geography, you’ll find a balance of teaching, research and service to the region as you study the physical aspects of our planet. More than just minerals and materials, geology takes a deep look into the history of the Earth through plate tectonics, environmental systems and the evolution of living organisms.

Through coursework, laboratory experimentation and research-based fieldwork, you’ll gain the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to begin a career in geology. Your studies will explore a diverse range of both economic and structural geology, with areas of focus including:

• Igneous and metamorphic petrology
• Mineralogy
• Paleoecology
• Vertebrate paleontology
• Taphonomy
• Ichnology
• Stratigraphy
• Sedimentology
• Hydrogeology
• Geochemistry
• Coastal geology
• Neotectonics
• Geophysics
• Environmental geology
• The natural history of the Coastal Plain

Georgia Southern University offers two bachelor degrees in Geology designed with a student-centered learning experience to prepare you for a career based on your passion.

*Specific requirements vary for the B.A. and B.S. degrees.

Why Study Geology at Georgia Southern University?

Georgia Southern’s Statesboro campus is located approximately 40 miles inland from Savannah, GA, in a geologically and topographically rich setting. Ecologically, Statesboro sits in the midst of Pine and Live Oak forests developed on the low relief ancient Plesitocene sea floor of a Pleistocene highstand. The area is drained by the nearby Ogeechee River and several of its tributaries. Some noteworthy geologic settings you’ll have the opportunity to study include:

• Miocene sediment deposits in the Hawthorne Formation
• An escarpment formed during the Pleistocene epoch (22,580,000 to 11,700 years ago)
• Approximately 4,000 feet of Cretaceous-Recent deposits
• Limestones of the Floridan aquifer system (one of the world’s most productive aquifers that supplies drinking water for nearly 10 million people)

In addition, the Department of Geology and Geography has access to 18 research laboratory facilities, both on-campus and at the Applied Coastal Research Laboratory situated in the University of Georgia’s Skidaway Institute of Oceanography. Visit the facilities page for more information on the resources our geology students have access to.

Jobs for Geologists

What can I do with a degree in geology?

Your bachelor degree in geology will prepare you for work in a variety of fields. Every day, geologists and geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth to aid in the search for and development of natural resources, as well as environmental protection and preservation. By choosing to study geology, you’re taking your first steps toward pursuing careers such as: 

• Earth science teacher
• Geoscientist
• Field geologist
• Environmental scientist
• Mine geologist
• Exploration geologist
• Environmental field technician
• Environmental consulting
• Research assistant
• Geotechnical engineer
• Geophysicist

Be sure to also visit Georgia Southern’s Career Services Office where you can speak with a Career Development Specialist who is available to help you make informed life decisions.

Do You Have Questions? Contact Us!

Department of Geology and Geography

Georgia Southern University
P.O. Box 8149
Statesboro, GA 30460
Phone: 912-478-5361
Fax: 912-478-0668

Last updated: 2/8/2023