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JMU Major: Geology

Description of the Major | Degrees Offered | Concentrations | Minors |
Declaring the Major | Progressing in the Major

Description of the Major


The Geology major offers specialized study focusing on earth materials, internal and external earth processes, analysis of earth history and appreciation of geology to environmental and engineering issues. The program provides a strong theoretical background in geology while allowing students flexibility in choosing courses to prepare for a specific career in the geological sciences. Graduates have attained employment as geologists and environmental scientists, as well as entry into prestigious graduate schools.

The major prepares students to collect data in the field and laboratory on minerals, rocks, fossils, landforms and structures; properly use field and laboratory equipment; and construct accurate geologic maps and displays of geologic data. Geology Title use geologic data to write interpretive geological reports and histories of regions; solve environmental and economic geological problems, and critically evaluate the theories and conclusions of other earth and environmental scientists. Students will have the opportunity to engage in research with a diverse and professionally active faculty.

Degrees Offered



Environmental and Engineering Geology

General Geology



Declaring the Major

New Freshmen and Transfer Students
Students should declare the Geology and Environmental Science major when they register for orientation.

Currently Enrolled Major Changers
Students should submit a "Change or Declaration of Major" form to the Geology and Environmental Science department head in Memorial Hall, room 7125.

Progressing in the Major
