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Geology

Explore the materials, processes and history that shape our planet. The Geology minor adds hands-on study of rocks, minerals, landforms and Earth systems to majors in science, environmental fields, geography and more.

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Geology

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Degree Level
Minor
Delivery
In Person
Credit Hours
22 Total, 22 in Major
Careers
Managers, Specialists, Geoscientists
Geology students at EIU

Why Study Geology at EIU?

  • Understand how Earth works. Explore the processes that create rocks, minerals, landforms and other features of our planet.
  • Add an Earth science perspective to your major. Geology complements studies in biology, environmental science, geography, chemistry, physics and related fields.
  • Learn through observation and investigation. Develop skills in identifying materials, interpreting evidence and understanding geologic change.
  • Explore environmental connections. Learn how geology influences natural resources, water, hazards and environmental systems.
  • Study with experienced faculty. Learn from faculty engaged in teaching, research and professional work in the geosciences.
"I didn't expect to get real experience this early, but by my sophomore year I was already working on projects that felt like actual marketing work. It made me feel confident that I'm ready for what comes next."
Alex Wilcoxon
Marketing | Junior
Alex Wilcoxon, Marketing at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Use laboratory activities to identify and interpret Earth materials.
  • Apply classroom concepts by observing landforms, rock units and other features outside the lab.
  • Gain experience with laboratory and analytical techniques used to study Earth materials and processes.
  • Choose courses in areas such as volcanology, hydrogeology, paleontology, tectonics or natural resources.
  • Students interested in going deeper may work with faculty on specialized geologic topics.
Hands-On Experience, Geology students at EIU

What You'll Learn

Geology is the study of Earth, its materials, its history and the processes that continue to shape it. In the Geology minor, you’ll learn how scientists use rocks, minerals, fossils, landforms and other evidence to understand how our planet has changed over time. You’ll build a foundation in Earth history, mineralogy and petrology while exploring the forces that shape landscapes and geologic structures.

View in Catalog
$145,453
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • Natural Sciences Managers
  • Water Resource Specialists
  • Geoscientists
  • Hydrologists
  • Geological Technicians
  • Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, & Space…

Career Insights

Job Outlook Average Outlook
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Investigative

Connect With Us

Dr. James Riley
Department Chair & Associate Professor, Geography
jdriley@eiu.edu
Physical Science 3007
217-581-2142
Dr. James Riley Message Dr. Riley

Message Dr. Riley

or email jdriley@eiu.edu directly
Diane Burns
Professor, Geology
dmburns@eiu.edu
1039
217-581-2018
Diane Burns Message Diane

Message Diane

or email dmburns@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

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or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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