Geology has undergone a revolution in the past decade, becoming an interdisciplinary science that emphasizes the study of major Earth systems – the solid Earth, the Earth's surface, the hydrosphere, atmosphere and cryosphere (ice!), and the ancient and modern biosphere. Students in geology learn how these systems work and how they are connected. Students integrate knowledge of Earth materials, the processes that have shaped them and the deep chronology of Earth history to understand global change through time. For example, geology students learn how the collision of continents and the creation of mountains affect sea level, climate and the diversity of marine organisms.
Students in geology work in the field and go on field trips as part of their regular course work. Geology majors become skilled in working in the field; making and working with maps; collecting, processing and presenting data and images with computers; and identifying and analyzing materials using up-to-date instrumentation. The Department of Geology is close-knit and personable.