CMES Earth - The University of Utah

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

Pick an 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

Jeff Moore

"The Great Salt Lake Meteorite Fall of 2022" in the Nov. issue of Outcrop- Newsletter for the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists.

Read the full article on pages 15-24. "I stopped mid-stride, turned back toward where the sound came from and wondered, is that what a meteorite fall sounds like?!"

students walking through capitol reef

Rock Solid Teaching

Some Utah teachers are stepping out of the classroom and into Capitol Reef, transforming how K-12 students learn about geology.

The team includes Holly Godsey, a professor of geology & geophysics and associate professor of education.

Issaku Kohl

How a Pyrite-Oxidizing Microbe Helps Preserve Atmospheric Oxygen in Sulfate.

New research led by U geoscientist (Issaku Kohl: photo) shows O₂ in sulfate deposits, coupled with geochemical clues, could help identify microbial activity in Earth’s rock record and even in Martian sediments.