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Geology 

At UW-Eau Claire 

(Printable version)

geology field trip

If you have a passion for science and the outdoors and a desire to become engaged with other students and faculty in high-quality research in the geosciences, you will be right at home as a geology major at UW-Eau Claire! 

Research alongside faculty

The Geology Department prides itself on engaging students in and out of the classroom. Every geology class includes hands-on learning and field trips. In addition, about 60% of the students are engaged in faculty/student collaborative research which enhances your skill set and provides a strong addition to your resume. Students frequently present their research (which is often award-winning) at regional, state and national venues.

Great facilities

The Geology Department at UW-Eau Claire, along with the Material Science Center, houses state-of-the-art analytical equipment that is rarely found at undergraduate institutions. Students gain hands-on experience with these techniques — a

unique opportunity that enhances future employment or graduate school opportunities.

Great facilities

The Geology Department at UW-Eau Claire, along with the Material Science Center, houses state-of-the-art analytical equipment that is rarely found at undergraduate institutions. Students gain hands-on experience with professional techniques — a unique opportunity that enhances future employment or graduate school opportunities.

Growing career field

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for geoscientists are expected to grow by 22 % between 2006 and 2016, much higher than the average in most fields. The integration of observational skills with GIS experience provides a strong base for future job opportunities.

geology student



Majors

Geology

Minors

Geology

Areas of concentration:

Students may choose to specialize in general geology, hydrogeology and water chemistry, environmental science, geological engineering or earth and space science.

Suggested freshman curriculum

- Physical Geology
- Environmental Geology
- Calculus I
- Calculus II
- Intro to College Writing
- Chemical Principles
- General electives
More advising information

Career paths

Four major career paths are available in geology:

Industry and consulting:

Most geologists are employed by oil and mining companies or engineering and consulting firms.

Government:

Many geologists work at government agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey, the Department of Natural Resources, geological surveys of individual states, and various research laboratories and museums in the country.

Research:

Teaching and research positions generally require a doctorate degree in the related field.

note

Special note

The department has a dual degree  program with the University of Minnesota in geology and engineering and in five years a student can graduate with a degree in both geology and an engineering discipline.

Teaching:

Through the College of Education and Human Sciences, geology graduates can qualify to teach earth science and related science subjects to junior high and high school students.

Our graduates

Typical positions held by geology graduates include four major paths: Industry and consulting, government agencies, research and teaching.
More career information

Places you’ll find recent graduates:

- Environmental Technician,
  S.E.H. Inc.,
  Chippewa Falls, WI
- Hydrologist, Wisconsin DNR
- Environmental Lawyer,
  Denver, CO
- Research Scientist, U.S. EPA
- Petroleum Logging
  Engineer, Pathfinder
  Energy in Lafayette, LA
- Pollution Control Specialist,
  MDT, Oakdale, MN
- Hydrogeologist, Meridian
  Alliance Group,
  Eau Claire, WI 

Department contact information

Lori Snyder
snyderld@uwec.edu
715-836-5086

Excellence. Our Measure. Our Motto. Our Goal.