Geology

The Geology program examines the entire Earth as a dynamic natural system by focusing on its composition, history and structure.  Students pursuing a B.S. degree take coursework in areas of Earth Sciences and Geology such as mineralogy, geochemistry, structural geology, hydrogeology, sedimentology, stratigraphy, petrology, and optical mineralogy. 

Students majoring in Geology pursue careers in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, mining, oil and gas exploration, site analysis, and teaching.  Students should seek advising for guidance toward courses that meet the requirements for North Carolina Licensure as a Professional Geologist and/or Soil Scientist.  There are employment opportunities in both government and private industry with the greatest range of positions available to students who earn graduate degrees.  For details, see the UNC Charlotte Graduate Catalog regarding the M.S. in Earth Sciences program.

Degree Requirements

A Major in Geology leading to a B.S. degree consists of a minimum of 45 credit hours in geology and earth sciences and 18 credit hours of extra-departmental courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

Degree Total = 120 Credit Hours

Cooperative Education Program

Students in the Geography and Earth Sciences programs may obtain practical work experience while pursuing their degrees by participating in the Cooperative Education program.  The work experience is approved by the department and is closely related to the student’s field of study.  The Cooperative Education Program allows qualified students either to alternate semesters of academic study with semesters of full-time work experience or to combine part-time academic study and part-time work during the same semester.  Students who are in good standing with the University, have a minimum overall GPA of 2.5, and have completed 30 credit hours are eligible to apply.  Transfer students are required to complete 12 credit hours at the University prior to application. Students interested in learning more about participating in this program should contact the Department of Geography and Earth Sciences or the University Career Center.

Honors Program

For details about the Honors Program in Geology, visit the program page .

Suggested Curriculum

For the suggested course sequence toward completing the major, please see the Academic Plan of Study available online at academics.uncc.edu.  Consultation with an advisor is required.