Department of Geology & Geophysics

Welcome to the department of geology & geophysics

As Geoscientists, we apply the principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology to understand the composition, structure, and history of the Earth and the processes that govern it. Our students use this knowledge to address societal needs and problems, such as locating and characterizing mineral, energy, and groundwater resources, assessing seismic and other geologic hazards, and evaluating and remediating environmental contamination.

Geoscience
Geo Engineering
Earth Science Teaching
Earth & Environmental Science
Earth Science Minor

Geoscience

Emphasis in Geology or Geophysics

Educates students to apply the principles of chemistry, physics, mathamatics, and biology to understand the composition, structure, and history of the Earth.

Geological Engineering

An engineering approach to solving important problems related to geological hazards (such as earthquakes and landslides) and natural resources (such as surface water and groundwater).

Our degree is ABET accredited, so graduates are ready to become licensed, practicing engineers. This program is also one of the only 13 programs nationwide.

Earth Science Teaching

A secondary education teaching degree for physical science and Earth science instructors in high schools and middle schools.

Earth & Environmental Science (EES)

An interdisplinary degree that enable students to study the interconnected nature of earth systems, including the fields of atmospheric science, geology, and ecology.

Earth Science Minor

Curriculum comprises core courses on earth systems and history. Electives include: geologic hazards, sustainable energy, paleontology and geobiology, and oceanography.

DEPARTMENT RESEARCH & NEWSView all news

Marjorie Chan

Marjorie Chan, Emeritus Faculty, Receives the 2026 Twenhofel Medal

The Twenhofel Medal is the highest award of SEPM Society for Sedimentary Geology. This award is in recognition of "Outstanding Contributions to Sedimentary Geology."

Gabe Bowen

Gabe Bowen named a Geochemistry Fellow for 2026

This announcement comes from the Geochemical Society and the European Association of Geochmeistry.

Freshwater Under Great Salt Lake Playa

In a first of its kind breakthrough, U geophysicists used electromagnetic data from airborne surveys to characterize a deep freshwater reservoir under Farmington Bay.