Illinois State University United States

Traditional 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 journey to understand our dynamic planet with the Traditional Geology (B.S.) at Illinois State University. This undergraduate degree is crafted for students passionate about the Earth's intricate processes, from its formation to its ongoing transformations, and for those interested in applying scientific principles to real-world environmental and resource challenges. You will delve into a curriculum that integrates core concepts from chemistry, physics, and mathematics, preparing you for a field where scientific inquiry meets practical application. This program is your gateway to a comprehensive understanding of geological sciences.

As a full-time, on-campus student, you will complete this Bachelor of Science degree over four years, gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork and laboratory analysis. The curriculum emphasizes senior-level coursework, ensuring you develop advanced skills in areas such as quantitative geology and major electives. You will explore topics like earth processes, mineralogy, and stratigraphy, culminating in a substantial summer field experience (GEO 395). Graduates are prepared for careers in the environmental, energy, and minerals sectors, or for further study in graduate programs.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Traditional Geology program provides a comprehensive foundation in geological sciences. Students will engage with core geology courses, alongside essential general education requirements in English, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. The curriculum progresses through specialized geology electives and applied quantitative geology, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in the field.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (14 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
CHE 140 General Education
MAT 145 General Education
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (14 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
CHE 141 General Education
General Education course
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (13-15 credit hours)

GEO 202 B.S. - SMT
GEO 203
Foreign language course 111-level or University-wide elective
PHY 108 or PHY 110

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (12-13 credit hours)

Foreign language course 112-level or University-wide elective
General Education course
General Education course
University-wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (14 credit hours)

GEO 280
GEO 290
GEO 295
Senior level University-wide elective

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (17 credit hours)

GEO 285
GEO 296
Geology major elective
AMALI course or University-wide elective
IDEAS course or University-wide elective

7 Third Year - Summer

GEO 395

8 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

Applied Quantitative Geology major elective
Geology major elective
Geology major elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

9 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

Geology major elective
Geology major elective or University-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective
General Education course

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
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 Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Technology & Precision FarmingBeverage Production & DistributionCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCrop Production & FarmingFood Safety & Quality AssuranceForestry & LoggingMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionPower Generation & UtilitiesQuantity Surveying & Cost Estimation

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Nature Concept

Shell

The Nature Conservancy

WSP

Why Study Traditional Geology (B.S.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Illinois 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 Traditional Geology (B.S.) at Illinois 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. On-campus work does not require a separate permit, but off-campus work requires university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, you can take Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores are needed for each test option, such as a Duolingo overall score of 105 or a TOEFL overall score of 79.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Environmental Geologist, Geotechnical Engineer, Hydrogeologist, and Mineralogist.

What will I actually study in this course?

Geology studies the Earth’s systems and history, focusing on processes like earthquakes and rock formation. The program at Illinois State prepares students for careers in environmental and energy sectors, integrating chemistry, physics, and biology.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Traditional Geology (B.S.) program accepts students in January, May, and August. Make sure to prepare your application for one of these intake months.
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