Colorado 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

The Bachelor of Science in Geology at Colorado State University provides you with an essential academic and practical foundation for a wide array of professional geosciences careers. You will explore critical areas such as water and energy resources, geological hazards, environmental management, and mineral exploration, preparing you for roles in both private and public sectors. This program is ideal for students driven by a curiosity about Earth's systems and a desire to contribute to sustainable resource management and hazard mitigation through a deep understanding of geology and geospatial applications.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is structured over four years, guiding you through foundational chemistry, physics, and mathematics in your freshman year, progressing to specialized courses like mineralogy, structural geology, and geomorphology. You will engage in hands-on learning through field methods and a required summer field course, culminating in a senior year focused on advanced topics and electives in areas such as sedimentary petrology and GIS. You will graduate with the analytical skills and practical experience necessary for careers in resource management, environmental consulting, and geological research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Geology program provides a comprehensive foundation in the Earth sciences, beginning with fundamental chemistry, composition, and physical and historical geology courses. Students will progress through specialized topics such as mineralogy, petrology, stratigraphy, and structural geology, complemented by essential field methods and geospatial applications. The curriculum culminates in advanced coursework in sedimentary petrology, geomorphology, and a selection of geology electives, preparing graduates for diverse professional roles or further academic pursuits in the field.

1 Freshman Year

General Chemistry I & Lab I Compulsory
College Composition Compulsory
Physical Geology for Scientists & Engineers Compulsory
Historical & Analytical Geology Compulsory
Logarithmic & Exponential Functions Compulsory
Numerical & Analytic Trigonometry Compulsory
One Year Calculus IB Elective
Calculus for Physical Scientists I Elective
Arts & Humanities Elective
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Elective

2 Sophomore Year

General Chemistry II & Lab II Compulsory
Mineralogy Compulsory
The Solid Earth Compulsory
Optical Mineralogy Compulsory
Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology Compulsory
Calculus for Physical Scientists II Compulsory
Writing Arguments Elective
Writing in the Disciplines: Sciences Elective
Strategic Writing & Communication Elective
General Physics I Elective
Physics for Scientists & Engineers I Elective
Social & Behavioral Sciences Elective

3 Junior Year

Stratigraphy & Sedimentology Compulsory
Structural Geology Compulsory
Geologic Field Methods Compulsory
Geospatial Applications in Natural Resources Elective
Intro. to Geographic Information Systems Elective
General Physics II Elective
Physics for Scientists & Engineers II Elective
Intro to Ordinary Differential Equations Elective
Introduction to Applied Statistical Methods Elective
Intro to Theory & Practice of Statistics Elective
Arts & Humanities Elective
Historical Perspectives Elective

4 Summer

Geology Summer Field Course Compulsory

5 Senior Year

Sedimentary Petrology & Geochemistry Compulsory
Geomorphology Compulsory
3 Geology Electives Compulsory
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry Elective
Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry Elective
Introduction to Analytical Chemistry Elective
Modern Organic Chemistry I Elective
Foundations of Physical Chemistry Elective
Physical Chemistry I Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 136,172.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Fort collins campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesCoal & Consumable FuelsCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationHigher Education & UniversitiesMineral Exploration & GeologyMining Technology & InnovationOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionSecondary & High School EducationSurface & Underground Mining

Top Employers Hiring for this course

National Park Service

Shell

u.s. geological survey (usgs)

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

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Colorado 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 Colorado State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term, with full-time options during breaks. On-campus jobs do not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language proficiency is required through tests such as Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific score thresholds must be met across listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include geoscientist, environmental consultant, hydrologist, and mineralogist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Major in Geology offers a foundation for careers in natural resources and environmental management. It also prepares students for addressing geologic hazards and working in energy sectors.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Geology (B.S.) program has two intake months: January and August. You can apply for admission during either of these periods.
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