Geological Sciences

The Bachelor of Arts in Geological Sciences at the University of Delaware offers students a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of Earth sciences, combining rigorous coursework with hands-on research experiences. This program is designed for students who are interested in understanding the Earth's processes, including its structure, composition, history, and the dynamic forces that shape our planet. Throughout the program, students will explore various areas such as mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology, structural geology, geophysics, and environmental geology, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for careers in academia, industry, government agencies, and environmental consulting.

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates classroom instruction with laboratory work and field studies, enabling them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in real-world contexts. The program emphasizes modern geological techniques, including GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and quantitative data analysis. An important aspect of the program is research opportunities, often involving field trips and laboratory investigations, which prepare students for graduate studies or professional work. The faculty members are experts in various subfields of geology, and they mentor students through independent research projects, thesis work, and internships.

Graduates of the Geological Sciences program are equipped to pursue diverse career paths such as environmental consulting, natural resource management, geological surveying, hazard assessment, and scientific research. Alternatively, students might choose to continue their education with graduate studies in geology, geophysics, paleontology, or related disciplines. The University of Delaware’s commitment to experiential learning, combined with its state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for meaningful careers in understanding and protecting the Earth’s natural systems.

Requirements for the Master of Science degree include 30 credits of graduate study (6 of which are thesis credits) and the research, preparation, and defense of a thesis. Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree include a Master of Science degree, an oral and written comprehensive exam, a course program developed with the student's dissertation committee (including 9 credits of dissertation research), and the research, preparation, and defense of the dissertation. All graduate students are required to register for GEOL 601 (Geological Sciences at Delaware) during their first fall term at the University. GEOL 605 (Stratigraphy) is also required of all graduate students. For both the MS and PhD degrees, course programs are otherwise developed on an individual basis to meet the specific needs of the student. The program of study and research is formed by student consultation with the advisor and thesis or dissertation research committee. Because of the value of the teaching experience, PhD candidates are expected to teach a course or laboratory section for at least one semester.

• Applicants to a University of Delaware graduate program must possess (or be in the final year of completing) a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree.
• Transcripts
• Test Scores
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Write your Graduate Application Essay
• Resume (optional)
• International applicants need to pass the TOEFL (minimum 100, with at least 20 in each section) or IELTS (minimum 7.5, with at least 6.5 in each section) language test, unless they have a postsecondary degree from an institution in an English-speaking country.

Scholarships

• University Fellowships
• University Tuition Scholarships
• Graduate Student Assistantships
• Residence Hall Assistantships
• UD Press Awards Internship

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in Geological Sciences at the University of Delaware offer comprehensive undergraduate education in the field of earth sciences. The program provides students with a robust foundation in geology, mineralogy, petrology, geomorphology, paleontology, and geophysics, equipping them with the essential knowledge and skills to analyze Earth's processes, history, and resources. Students have the opportunity to engage in both theoretical coursework and practical experiences, including fieldwork, laboratory research, and internships, to gain valuable hands-on knowledge of geological methods and applications.

The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and scientific communication skills. Undergraduates can customize their learning experiences by choosing electives aligned with their interests, such as environmental geology, planetary geology, or hydrogeology. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding geological hazards, resource management, and sustainable practices, preparing students for careers in industry, government, research, or further graduate study.

Research is a vital component of the program, with opportunities to participate in faculty-led projects focused on topics like mineral deposits, seismic activity, climate change impacts, or earth history. The department collaborates with various institutions and offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment. Graduates from the program are well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in fields related to natural resource exploration, environmental protection, geotechnical engineering, or education.

Overall, the Geological Sciences program at the University of Delaware aims to develop knowledgeable, skilled geoscientists capable of addressing complex environmental and societal challenges through scientific inquiry, research, and practical expertise. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating aspects of chemistry, physics, and biology to enhance understanding of Earth's systems and their interactions.