Geology

The Geology Program at Westminster University

As a geology major, you’ll spend almost as much time in the field as you do in the classroom. You’ll explore some of the most spectacular geological landscapes in the country and use them as your guide as you learn how the Earth works.

Geology majors begin by learning about the rocks and minerals that compose the Earth and what each of them can tell us about our planet’s past. In more advanced classes, geology majors explore the theories that let us understand that past in detail as well as make predictions about the future. Through various opportunities to spend time in the field, you'll be able to make the most of your geology education.

Who the Geology Program Is For

The geology program is designed for students who are naturally curious about their surroundings. As you study geology, you will develop your knowledge and interpretive skills until you are able to see the Earth’s present landscape as evidence of its dynamic past.

What You'll Learn in the Geology Program 

• Synthesize multiple lines of evidence and multiple sources of data to support geologic hypotheses
• Use an earth systems perspective to integrate an understanding of geologic processes across disciplines.
• Evaluate data necessary to answer a particular question
• Think and extrapolate across a broad range of temporal and dimensional scales
• Work collaboratively to break a complex problem into simpler, individually achievable tasks
• Work together constructively in challenging field environments
• Explain geologic information at a level appropriate to the audience
• Read and understand the geologic literature and create original research reports
• Communicate scientific information through the verbal and written presentation of data, graphics, and maps
• Assess the effects of human activity on the natural environment
• Bring a geologic perspective to discussions of social issues

sample geology courses

 

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Key Benefits of the Geology Program

• Westminster has the only liberal arts geology program set among the amazing landscapes of Utah’s deserts and mountains.
• Frequent field study opportunities allow you to use the Earth itself to guide you in hands-on learning.
• Exploration is at the heart of the geology program. As a student, you’ll have opportunities to develop your own questions and find your own answers. This exploration happens through field-based classes, summer field experiences, and undergraduate research opportunities.  Many of our students have presented the results of their research at regional and national conferences.