Oregon State University United States

Geology (B.S.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on a Bachelor of Science in Geology at Oregon State University, a program designed for those passionate about understanding the Earth's intricate systems, from its deep history to its present-day processes. You will explore the fundamental principles that govern our planet, including mineralogy, petrology, and structural geology, gaining the scientific knowledge and practical skills essential for addressing critical global challenges. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students aiming to contribute to fields such as natural resource management, environmental protection, and hazard assessment, providing a robust foundation in earth sciences.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, immersing you in a curriculum that balances theoretical learning with extensive hands-on experience. You will engage in fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation, applying concepts from geochemistry and geophysics to real-world scenarios. The program emphasizes practical skills through courses like Introduction to Field Geology and Advanced Field Geology, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of Earth systems. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for diverse career paths in geological surveying, environmental consulting, and scientific research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Geology program provides a comprehensive foundation in Earth sciences, covering physical geology, Earth systems, and the evolution of planet Earth. Students will delve into mineralogy, petrology, and petrography, alongside essential calculus, chemistry, and physics courses. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics such as field geology, stratigraphy, structural geology, hydrogeology, geochemistry, and geophysics, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the geosciences.

1 First Year

General chemistry and laboratory for chemistry 231 Compulsory
Physical geology
Differential calculus
Composition I

2 First Year - WINTER

General chemistry and laboratory for chemistry 232
Earth systems science
Lifetime fitness for health
Integral calculus

3 First Year - SPRING

General chemistry and laboratory for chemistry 233
Evolution of planet Earth
Speech
General elective

4 Second Year

Introduction to field geology
Geosciences data analysis
Earth materials I: mineralogy
General physics with calculus

5 Second Year - WINTER

Earth materials II: petrology
General physics with calculus
Biological science
Literature and arts

6 Second Year - SPRING

Earth materials III: petrography
Introduction to statistical methods
Difference, power & discrimination
General elective

7 Third Year

Surface processes
Geiscience I: geographic information systems and theory
Social processes and institutions

8 Third Year - WINTER

Stratigraphy and sedimentology
GEO Upper Division Elective

9 Third Year - SPRING

Structural geology
GEO Upper Division Elective
Writing II
General elective

10 Third Year - SUMMER

Advanced field geology

11 Fourth Year

Hydrogeology
GEO Upper Division Elective
General elective
General elective

12 Fourth Year - WINTER

Geochemistry
Science, technology and society
General elective
General elective

13 Fourth Year - SPRING

Geophysics and tectonics
Contemporary global issues
GEO Upper Division Elective
General elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 164,440.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 799.00 - USD 1,094.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Corvallis Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Electrical & Mechanical InstallationFisheries & AquacultureHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Hydropower & Alternative RenewablesIndustrial & Mechanical EngineeringIndustry 4.0 & Digital ManufacturingProduct Design & PrototypingProduction & Operations ManagementRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)Residential Construction

Top Employers Hiring for this course

H2Alluvium

HDR

Jacobs

Lam Research

NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

National Energy Technology Laboratory

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Why Study Geology (B.S.) at Oregon State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Oregon State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Oregon State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Geology (B.S.) at Oregon State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit if on campus. Off-campus work is possible after the first year but requires university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, scores for Duolingo must be 100 across all sections. For TOEFL, an overall score of 70 with specific section scores is required, while IELTS requires an overall score of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Geologist, Environmental Consultant, Hydrogeologist, Paleontologist, and Geophysicist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Geology program at Corvallis focuses on Earth's structure and natural resource management. Key areas of study include Mineralogy and Structural Geology, equipping students with essential scientific skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Students can begin the Geology (B.S.) program in January, March, June, or September. Each intake gives you the opportunity to advance your education in geology.
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