THE GEOLOGY AND GEOPHYSICS PROGRAM
The Geology and Geophysics program at the University of Utah is ranked within the top 50 Earth Science programs in the United States (US News & World Report, 2014). The faculty of the Department of Geology and Geophysics includes 24 regular (tenure-track) professors, 11 research professors, and 11 emeritus professors with specialties spanning the entire spectrum of the earth sciences. Women comprise about 33% of the Faculty and 48% of the students in the Department. The Department has 99 undergraduates. There are 41 students in the Masters Program and 37 students in the PhD program. Students routinely serve on departmental committees and participate in the governance of the Department. Our professors are widely recognized for excellence in teaching and are at the forefront of their research fields. Close association between students and faculty is encouraged and enhances instructional and research activities.
GEOLOGY IN UTAH
Utah is one of the very few locations in the world that has rocks of every geologic period exposed, extending our state’s history back beyond two billion years into the past. Every major rock type, fossil group, precious metal, economic metal, fossil field, and type of geologic structure and landform can be found within the state. Geoscience applies the principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology to understand the composition, structure, and history of the Earth and the processes that govern it. Geoscientists 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.
The University of Utah’s program can provide you with a broad foundation in fundamental science concepts allowing you to individualize your degree by pursuing one of three emphasis areas in the geoscience field:
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Geology: focuses on geologic materials, Earth systems, and fossils
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Geological Engineering: integrating geology and engineering
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Geo Teaching: BS to MS in Earth Science Composite Teaching
RESEARCH
DEGREES OFFERED
Undergraduate Degrees | Minor in Earth Sciences | Graduate Degrees
SCHOLARSHIPS
There are multiple dedicated scholarships available specifically for Geology and Geophysics majors.
STAFF MISSION
The Mission of the Geology & Geophysics staff is to provide the highest standards of support, service, management, accounting, and other office related functions, to our customers, who are students, faculty, other departments, and the University community, and to promote harmony, growth, and development of our department through friendliness, integrity, reliability, and professionalism.