Geology Department
Professor Garver, Chair; Professor Hollocher; Professor Rodbell; Professor Shaw; Research Professor Fleischer; Research Professor Finks, Research Professor Stander, Postdoctoral Fellow Smith.
Requirements for the Geology Major: Twelve courses in the department including: one of Geology 100 (10), 102 (12), 105 (15), 106 (16), 107 (17), 108 (18); one of 101 (11), 103 (13), 104 (14), 208 (28); one of 303 (26), 300 (40), or 301 (41), each of 200 (20), 201 (21), 202 (22), 250 (30), 253 (33), and 405 (180), and three elective geology courses. Also required are two terms each of mathematics (or equivalent such as Math 113 (13)), chemistry, and biology or physics. Advanced work or a minor is encouraged in chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, economics, or engineering. All Geology courses at the 100 level are introductory and have no prerequisites. Senior Geology majors may not take these introductory courses for major credit. A senior thesis is the final product of 405, which may be a research thesis (required for honors) if accompanied by senior level research (495-498). Only one senior level research credit may count toward the three geology electives. Students who intend on going to graduate school are strongly encouraged to do a research thesis and to take two courses in physics rather than biology, unless specifically interested in paleontology or geobiology, because most graduate programs require physics. A summer field course in the junior year is strongly recommended, particularly for those going on to graduate school or geological consulting work.
Requirements for Honors: The major requirements as specified above are required, as are the GPA requirements of Union College described elsewhere in this catalog. A senior research thesis is required, consisting of at least one term of 495-498 (195-198) (independent research with a faculty member) and 405 (180). Only one 495-498 credit may count toward the three geology electives.
Requirements for Interdepartmental Majors: Interdepartmental majors will follow the guidelines described elsewhere in this catalog. Students taking geology as part of an interdepartmental major should take any introductory level course at the 100 level, plus any other geology courses needed complete the geology segment of their major (all prerequisites apply). All courses should be chosen in consultation with a geology advisor as part of a coherent plan of study.
Requirements for the Minor: A minor in geology requires six courses including any introductory level course at the 100 level, 200, and any four electives numbered higher than 200. All prerequisites apply.
Requirements for Secondary School Certification: Students seeking certification in earth science should complete the normal Geology major described above, except that astronomy, planetary science, and meteorology may substitute for any Geology elective or physics/biology ancillary science course. For other requirements consult the Educational Studies Program elsewhere in this catalog.