Geology
Major, Minor
Overview of our geology degree
Are you fascinated by the forces that shape our planet? Do you wonder why earthquakes and volcanoes occur where they do? What the Earth’s oceans and atmosphere were like before life began? Or where the materials in your cellphone came from? CMU’s geology degree offers a hands-on, up-close exploration of our ever-changing world. It gives you the experience, knowledge and professional skills necessary to pursue a meaningful career in geosciences that has positive impact and helps your community.
Our geology program builds your knowledge of Earth systems from an atomic scale to continental scale. You’ll learn how to apply this knowledge to solve the great challenges of the 21st century, such as the need for clean water, renewable energy and sustainable extraction of raw materials. You’ll develop new skills in the field and lab, and you’ll gain experience with professional writing and presentations. These skills will help you launch your career as a geoscientist where you’ll do important work finding, developing and stewarding the world’s natural resources. Begin your path as an Earth-saving scientist at CMU!
AT A GLANCE
How our geology degree prepares you for vital geology jobs
Our planet is in peril! Geoscientists understand processes essential for a sustainable Earth. They are experts in finding, assessing quality and using the essential materials, water and energy that we need to support and strengthen our society. Earth scientists use their knowhow, talent and skills to improve people’s lives and safeguard the environment. Some may choose to explore the movement of continents, the formation of mountains, the flow of glaciers or the rise and fall of sea levels. Others track soil and groundwater pollution, or assess risks from natural hazards like floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanos.
Our geology degree is adapting to intensifying climate change and diminishing resources in today’s world. The Geology Major, B.S.: Green Energy Concentration (starting Fall 2025) is unique in the state of Michigan. It will help you jump-start your career in high-demand industries.
We are known for the emphasis we put on helping you grow professionally. We listen closely to our alumni and carefully craft our courses to teach you essential workplace skills. Lectures and labs are infused with collaborative exercises and hands-on learning. Many courses include field trips that give you practical experiences.
You’ll collect data using the latest equipment in the field or in laboratories on campus. You’ll have the chance to conduct your own research and present your results at professional conferences. Before graduation, students spend a month at a geology field camp in places like Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Spain, Ireland, Scotland or Australia – an awesome, eye-opening, career-building experience!
Central Michigan’s geology degree features small class sizes and a dedicated, diverse team of faculty experts. The ratio of geology faculty to geology majors is around 1:5, with most upper-level courses having fewer than 16 students. Most of our students benefit from generous department awards and scholarships or working one-on-one with faculty on cutting edge research projects. Our majors also benefit from connections with our alumni who provide excellent career advice in a required professional development course for seniors and annual alumni-career day events for all.
Geology degree highlights
As a student in our geology program, you’ll benefit from:
- Hands-on exploration: Experience the wonders of geology firsthand by working with our vast collection of earth materials and state-of-the-art laboratory equipment.
- Strong foundations for the future: Learn about critical resources for the energy transition while honing your problem-solving and communication skills, essential for success in geology careers.
- Developing a three-dimensional perspective: Apply critical thinking to solve geological problems from a variety of angles, considering both the physical and temporal aspects of Earth’s processes.
- Internships and independent study: You’ll have opportunities to apply professional skills learned in your coursework to solve challenging, real-world problems.
- Real-world adventures: Embark on exciting field trips to explore geological formations and participate in research projects alongside CMU scientists.
- Networking with geology alumni: Gain valuable insights from former students about the pros and cons of various industries before figuring out your own career path.
Geology jobs and career paths
The Earth’s future depends on effective champions and stewards with the expertise to be the agent of change our planet and civilization need. Not only does a geology degree allow graduates to work on many of society’s most important challenges, but it also unlocks personally rewarding careers in industry, academia, research and government. With a geology degree from CMU, you’ll be prepared for a variety of careers in water resources, environmental consulting, geological mapping and exploration, minerals industries, carbon capture and underground storage, onshore/offshore wind and solar renewable energy, or geothermal energy. Over 90% of our graduates find rewarding positions in geoscience fields or graduate programs.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Geoscientist | $92,580 |
| Geoscience Postsecondary Teacher | $84,380 |
| Mining and Geological Engineer | $100,640 |
| Geophysicist | $92,580 |
| Hydrologist | $88,770 |
| Environmental Specialist | $78,980 |
| Geological and Petroleum Technician | $53,440 |
| Environmental Engineering Technician | $54,000 |
Student organizations for future geologists
Student organizations offer geology students benefits that extend beyond the classroom. CMU's student chapter of the American Institute of Professional Geologists provides opportunities to network with peers who share a passion for geology, fostering a deeper sense of collaboration and community.
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