Geology

With your undergraduate Geology degree from Edinboro, you'll be prepared for a variety of careers that tackle the challenges of today’s world, including jobs in oil and gas, alternative energy, water resources, environmental and climate science.

90,000

Geologists Needed

Wanted: Geologists of All Kinds.

The American Geosciences Institute predicts 90,000 geologists will be needed over the next decade to replace retiring professionals and meet the growing demand for geoscientists. Geologist workforce needs outpace the national average for 2018-28 and the median annual pay for geoscientists is currently $92,040.

Why Edinboro Stands Out.

Edinboro's Department of Geosciences is one of the largest and most diverse in the region, with faculty expertise in Geology, Geography, Geographic Information Sciences, Environmental Science and Meteorology.

As a student, you'll learn from the best. Our faculty are teachers first and foremost, but they also research fascinating topics that range from new fossil lobster species, glacial geology, applied geophysics, water resources, earth-system interactions, environmental geology and local lake-effect snow.

You will be held to high standards and be well-prepared to enter the global workforce or graduate school. Here's what our Geology program offers that sets us apart from the rest:

A curriculum aligned with PA state licensure requirements.
Expert faculty who are recognized around the world for their scholarly research.
State-of-the-art, technologically advanced laboratory facilities.
Multiple opportunities for capstone educational experiences.
Network of successful alumni working in the discipline.
Internships with industry, government and nonprofit organizations.
Assistantship opportunities to attend prestigious graduate schools including the University of Pittsburgh, University of Buffalo, Kent State University, University of New Hampshire and University of Kentucky.

Our students have the opportunity for hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment, which gives them a competitive edge when they enter the job market.

Dr. Brian Zimmerman,

Chair, Department of Geosciences

Experience in the Field

As a Geology major, you'll have access to extensive field work opportunities in geologically significant areas including nearby Howard Falls, Presque Isle and Moraine state parks, and the glacial terrains of northwest Pennsylvania. Our department also offers unique opportunities for international travel to Scotland, Ireland and China.

The Latest Equipment

Our Geology program features state-of-the-art, technologically advanced laboratory facilities featuring the latest tools and equipment, so you can trust you're learning the skills you need on the best equipment around.

Student Organizations

Get involved with one of these student organizations:

S.E.E.D -- Students of Edinboro for Environmental Defense
CHAOS (Cooper Hall Ambassadors of Science) - Space Sciences and Planetarium Club
Sigma Gamma Epsilon - Geology Club

Your Future

You can help solve problems with your geology degree. Whether you’re interested in climate change, alternative energy, mining, oil and gas resources or environmental science, there’s a job for you as a geologist. With ample current opportunities available and a predicted workforce shortage in the next decade, our graduates are and will be qualified to fill these positions.

Around the country our alumni have exciting careers at organizations like:

Chevron Resources

Exxon Mobil

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

U.S. Geological Survey

U.S. Forest Service