Geoscience Degrees
Geoscience degrees aim to provide an interdisciplinary study of all aspects of the Earth (land, water, and atmosphere), its origin and evolution, and the relationship between humans and nature. Students enrolled in a geoscience degree program will likely immerse themselves in an intensive science-based curriculum with topics spanning geology, paleontology, chemistry and physics, geographic information systems (GIS), hydrogeology, and oceanography, among others.
Colleges and universities may offer geoscience degree programs on campus, online, or in a hybrid setting of digital and in-person courses. Students typically gain essential skills they can apply to the field, such as analytical thinking, sampling, research writing and methodologies, problem-solving, and the ability to identify and interpret patterns, numerical data, and graphical data.
There are many professional opportunities for geoscientists and common career titles typically include hydrologist, oceanographer, petroleum geologist, environmental engineer, or geophysicist.
The Top Bachelor's Programs in Geoscience
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas A & M University-College Station | $11361 | 58% | 82% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 2 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | $11465 | 52% | 84% | 57% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 3 | Stanford University | $53529 | 4% | 94% | 70% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 4 | Western Washington University | $8343 | 90% | 68% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 5 | Lehigh University | $55240 | 32% | 90% | 69% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 6 | SUNY College at Geneseo | $8927 | 65% | 80% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 7 | University of Wyoming | $4747 | 96% | 60% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 8 | The University of Texas at Austin | $10824 | 32% | 86% | 67% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 9 | University of Houston | $9221 | 65% | 61% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 10 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | $10725 | 54% | 88% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 11 | University of California-Los Angeles | $13240 | 12% | 92% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 12 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | $7396 | 55% | 69% | 78% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 13 | University of Nevada-Reno | $8184 | 88% | 61% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 14 | California State University-Long Beach | $6834 | 39% | 74% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 15 | Mississippi State University | $8910 | 54% | 61% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 16 | California State University-Sacramento | $7368 | 82% | 55% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 17 | William & Mary | $22922 | 38% | 90% | 56% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 18 | California State University-Chico | $7806 | 72% | 67% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 19 | University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | $19718 | 57% | 83% | 77% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 20 | University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown | $14156 | 79% | 57% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 21 | Sonoma State University | $7880 | 91% | 62% | 71% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 22 | James Madison University | $12206 | 77% | 84% | 62% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 23 | University at Buffalo | $10524 | 61% | 75% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 24 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $16540 | 23% | 93% | 65% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 25 | State University of New York at New Paltz | $8502 | 45% | 77% | 82% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 26 | California State University-Fullerton | $6924 | 53% | 69% | 77% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 27 | University of Pittsburgh-Bradford | $14158 | 73% | 40% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 28 | University of Nevada-Las Vegas | $8171 | 81% | 45% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 29 | University of California-Davis | $14495 | 39% | 87% | 66% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 30 | Western Michigan University | $13017 | 80% | 57% | 82% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 31 | North Dakota State University-Main Campus | $9619 | 94% | 60% | 90% | No | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 32 | Washington State University | $11841 | 76% | 60% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 33 | California State University-Fresno | $6589 | 58% | 56% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 34 | SUNY College at Oswego | $8717 | 54% | 67% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 35 | University of Colorado Boulder | $12500 | 78% | 69% | 66% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 36 | University of Florida | $6381 | 37% | 88% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 37 | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | $13264 | 79% | 72% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 38 | Central Washington University | $8273 | 85% | 58% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 39 | Oregon State University | $11715 | 82% | 67% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 40 | University of California-San Diego | $14415 | 31% | 87% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 41 | University of Utah | $8615 | 62% | 70% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 42 | West Virginia University | $8976 | 84% | 61% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 43 | Missouri University of Science and Technology | $10575 | 79% | 66% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 44 | Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania | $10958 | 84% | 60% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 45 | Princeton University | $52800 | 6% | 98% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 46 | University of Arizona | $12379 | 85% | 65% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 47 | University of California-Berkeley | $14253 | 16% | 93% | 63% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 48 | Binghamton University | $10201 | 41% | 82% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 49 | George Mason University | $12564 | 87% | 71% | 74% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 50 | Montana State University | $7325 | 82% | 57% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.
Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
What Kinds of Geoscience Degrees Are There?
Geoscience degrees are available at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate levels. Additionally, there are several certificate program options for students to study related geoscience topics. We will explore these different degrees and certificates below.
Associate Degrees in Geoscience
Associate degree programs in geoscience aim to deliver introductory learning and technical skills that typically prepare students for careers in conservation, energy, waste testing, and ecological risk assessment. Associate degrees require about 60 credits of general coursework in mathematics, reading, composition, and science, as well as electives related to geoscience and similar disciplines. Students in associate-level geoscience programs have the opportunity to gain several competencies, such as problem-solving, technical writing, communication skills, the ability to consider complex data, and scientific research methods.
Associate geoscience degrees are usually an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in geoscience-related subjects, for example, geoscience technology, geology, or earth science. Students with associate degrees in geoscience often continue their education in a four-year program or seek entry-level employment in the field.
Bachelor's Degrees in Geoscience
Bachelor's degrees in geoscience examine the Earth's processes and historical evolution as it pertains to key environmental challenges, such as climate change, energy resources, and the correlation between humans and nature. Students who pursue geoscience degrees are typically adept at math, science, and technology and apply their learning to solve key environmental issues such as acid mine drainage and waste removal, as well as answer queries regarding biological events and the Earth's origin.
Degrees at this level include a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in Geoscience. Some schools allow students to enroll in a combined bachelor's and master's degree program for geoscience, in which they will graduate with a master's degree instead. Similar program titles may include Geoscience Technology and Management, or Geosystems Engineering.
Master's Degrees in Geoscience
A master's degree in geoscience offers an advanced curriculum beyond the bachelor's level for students interested in pursuing research opportunities, fieldwork, and laboratory investigations within geoscience disciplines. Students in a master-level geoscience program may utilize several technologies to collect geological and oceanographic data and contribute their findings to research efforts in the scientific community.
While program lengths vary at each school, many master's degree programs include about 30 to 36 credits of core requirements and electives and take about two years to complete. Some programs encourage students to concentrate in a geoscience discipline, and many programs require a thesis/dissertation, capstone project, or portfolio that demonstrates learning outcomes.
Master-level geoscience programs usually culminate in a Master of Science (MS) or Master of Arts (MS) in Geoscience. Students may also choose to pursue a master's degree in a related subject area, such as geology, petroleum engineering, or earth science. Some programs allow students the opportunity to pursue a combined master's and doctoral program in geoscience.
Doctoral Degrees in Geoscience
A doctorate in geoscience is the highest level of scholarship students can pursue to further their expertise in the field. Students enrolled in these doctoral programs are often prepared for careers as researchers and post-secondary educators in a geoscience discipline.
On average, program durations vary from three to five years, and students must typically complete about 45 to 60 credits of an intensive curriculum; although some programs may consist of about 80 credits. Additionally, most doctoral programs require a minimum grade point average of 3.0. Depending on the school, other requirements for a doctorate may include teaching apprenticeships, fieldwork, and a thesis/dissertation and defense. Students may also choose to create a unique curriculum with a senior faculty member based on their academic and research interests.
Doctoral programs in geoscience often result in a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geoscience, although other degree titles may be more specific, such as a Ph.D. in Water Resource Systems Engineering or a Ph.D. in Geology and Environmental Science.
Certificates in Geoscience
Certificate programs in geoscience are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels and are ideal for students who are seeking new or improved skill sets, entry-level employment, a career change, or to advance in their industries. Geoscience certificates provide broad knowledge across several geoscience topics, such as general geoscience studies, geology, hydrogeology, and petroleum engineering, among others.
Depending on the program, certificates may require 12 to 18 credits of subject-related coursework, although some certificate programs may require about 30 credits. Generally, students can complete their certificate programs in about one or two years.
For students who do not wish to enroll in a college certificate program, free geoscience and earth science courses are available online; however, these courses do not usually offer college credit or lead to a degree.
Geoscience Bachelor's Degree Concentrations
There are several concentrations for students to choose from in a bachelor's geoscience degree program. Students are often encouraged to take up internships and gain experiential training in the field throughout their curriculums, as well. While concentrations and specializations differ from school to school, the following study tracks are common in four-year geoscience programs:
Geology
This concentration provides a multifaceted study of the Earth, including its structure, origin, and evolution. Students who pursue geology concentrations typically gain communication, analytical thinking, and investigative skills that can be applied to roles in education, research, geoscience and the energy and mineral resources sector. Topics that are frequently covered include the advancement of geological technologies, major geological events, sediment distribution, and mineralogy.
Hydrogeology
This concentration emphasizes the study of water in surface and subsurface environments, as well as water's role in geologic systems from its transport to quality and quantity. Students enrolled in a hydrogeology track typically investigate the natural movement of water, toxicology, marine and sediment compositions, and natural resources. Students may leverage their hydrogeology education in careers related to water resource assessment, environmental remediation, or engineering.
Earth Science
This concentration aims to provide an interdisciplinary approach to learning Earth's systems and tends to draw from topics related to geology, oceanography, solar system studies, and climate studies. Utilizing scientific research methodologies, technologies, and data analysis, students gain foundational knowledge in climate dynamics, global change, and anthropogenic impacts on the environment. Additionally, students may gain hands-on experience using GIS and remote sensing technologies to examine and understand geological trends. Individuals who pursue this concentration may apply their expertise to several earth science careers, such as GIS specialist, planetary geologist, or science teacher.
Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in Geoscience
Bachelor's geoscience degree programs tend to emphasize mathematics and the natural and physical sciences, designating the first half of the program to general coursework, including intensive chemistry, calculus, and biology classes. The second half of geoscience bachelor's degree curriculums usually involve major core requirements, concentration topics, and electives.
The following titles are examples of courses offered in bachelor's geoscience degree programs:
- Physical Geology
- Calculus I and II
- History of Earth
- Field Geology
- Chemistry I and II
- Stratigraphy
Physical Geology
This course examines the planetary structure of Earth, including rock and mineral evolutions, plate tectonics, and surface formation. Additionally, the Physical Geology course may provide comparisons of Earth to other planets and celestial masses throughout the solar system. Students are likely to gain practical fieldwork training through class trips, rock and mineral analysis, and experience using topographic mapping technology.
History of Earth
This course aims to provide students with an investigation into the evolution of Earth from its origin to the formation of continents. Additionally, students are likely to examine the relationship between the natural world, the atmosphere, and Earth's shifting climate. Other topics may include a study of major geologic occurrences that have impacted the evolution of North America, as well as the numerous technological tools and applications used by geoscience professionals to uncover the past.
Stratigraphy
This course is designed for students pursuing geology concentrations to prepare for careers in sedimentology. Stratigraphy courses often provide an introductory explanation of the origin, structure, movement, and buildup of sediments to better uncover geological history; for example, previous volcanic eruptions and natural changes in the environment. Students typically utilize investigative, critical thinking, collaborative, and data analytics skills to study sediment morphology and rock layers.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's in Geoscience?
Bachelor's degrees in geoscience take about four years to complete, or 120 credits. Of course, program lengths vary depending on whether a student attends school on a full-time or part-time basis, if the program offers summer classes, or if there are special requirements for graduation, such as internships, seminars, or fieldwork.
Additionally, some schools offer an accelerated program or dual degree program which may affect program durations. Combined bachelor-level degrees may be a BS/MS in Geoscience or a similar discipline, in which students will actually graduate with a master's degree.
Accreditation for Bachelor's in Geoscience Degrees
Colleges, universities, and programs receive accreditation when they meet or exceed the learning needs of their students through exemplary curriculum, instruction, and educational and professional resources. Students seeking financial aid through the federal government, scholarships, and even employment in certain industries must attend an accredited institution for higher education.
Specialized accreditation may be given to geoscience degree programs and related STEM disciplines, for example, by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which recognizes programs in four separate subject areas: natural science, engineering, engineering technologies, and computing. This includes certain geology and geological technology programs that may be accredited under the ABET's Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission (ANSAC) or the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC).
For additional institution and program accreditation information, students can visit their school's website or search the U.S. Department of Education's database of accredited colleges and universities.
Enrolling in a School for Geoscience Bachelor's Degree Program
Admissions procedures tend to be comparable among colleges. Most schools require that first-time students fill out an online application through the school's website and submit their academic records, for example, their high school transcripts; SAT and other test scores, letters of recommendation, and college essays. Typically, applicants are charged a nominal fee to submit their documents.
Transfer students from another college follow similar procedures, including sending their official transcripts and any test scores. Depending on the school, some colleges require transfer applicants to maintain a minimum grade point average for consideration to be admitted.
Some geoscience bachelor's degree programs have their own set of admissions criteria for students to meet. Students should look at the program website and contact their academic advisor for more information regarding specific program admissions requirements.
Geoscience Licensure & Certification
There are 31 states that require licensing for geologists who work in public services, such as environmental management, civil engineering, and regulatory compliance. Other professionals may obtain certification and licensure to stay relevant in their industries and to highlight their qualifications in the field. The National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG) is used for credentialing purposes in all states and applicants must meet specific educational and professional criteria, in addition to passing the Fundamentals of Geology Exam, to acquire a license.
The American Institute of Hydrology also offers the Professional Hydrology Certification and the Hydrologic Technician Certification. For each credential, applicants must meet specific educational and professional requirements, such as three to five years working in the field according to their degree level, as well as pass an exam that demonstrates their industry expertise.
Professional Organizations in Geoscience
Depending on an individual's geoscience discipline, there are several professional organizations for professionals and students to join. Typically, membership benefits include the opportunity to network with other professionals, stay informed about industry trends, and gain access to peer-reviewed journals and career resources.
The Geological Society of America (GSA) aims to connect earth science professionals across all degree levels and industry sectors. Membership is available to seasoned professionals, entry-level professionals, students, teachers, and affiliates to drive scientific discovery in geology and related disciplines.
The Paleontological Society is another geoscience professional organization that emphasizes the scientific study of fossils and evolution. Individuals interested in joining should fill out the application on the organization's website. Membership fees are based on the applicant type, for example, student, professional, entry-level professional, educator, or retiree.
Additionally, the American Institute of Hydrology (AIH) is a professional organization designated for hydrologists. The mission of the AIH is to provide hydrology and hydrologic technician certification to individuals in the field, establish a series of procedures and ethics to ensure work safety, and offer members additional training and education related to hydrology. Those interested in joining should fill out an application on the AIH's website according to their membership category.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Geoscience?
Graduates with geoscience degrees will discover several geoscience and earth science careers available to them. Depending on the level of study, geoscience professionals are usually employed with oil and gas companies, environmental consulting groups, utilities, nonprofits, schools, and government agencies.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019, individuals who worked in geoscience careers had a median salary of:
- Geoscientists: $92,040
- Environmental Engineers: $88,860
- Geological and Petroleum Technicians: $51,130
- Hydrologists: $81,270
- Atmospheric Scientists: $95,380
How to Become a Geoscientist
Geoscientists typically investigate the physical components of the Earth to better understand its origins, current state, and future. Utilizing both straight-forward and complex technologies, geoscientists often conduct fieldwork in which they collect rock and mineral samples, keep logs of notes and photographs, and construct geologic charts and maps. Other duties may entail lab work and generating reports and presentations of their findings.
There are many geoscientist careers available to graduates of these programs, including geologist, paleontologist, oceanographer, geochemist, and petroleum geologist, and each specialize in a specific geoscience discipline.
According to the BLS, job growth for geoscientists is expected to increase by 5 percent (2019-2029).
How to Become a Hydrologist
Hydrologists typically examine surface and subsurface water movements, including the effects of precipitation and evaporation on groundwater and streamflow. Essential skills, such as analytical thinking, communication, and collaboration are often exercised to help hydrologists solve complex water quality and quantity issues. Additional duties include collecting water and soil samples to test for contamination, researching ecological impacts of pollution and erosion, and utilizing GIS and remote sensing equipment to determine future trends of water resources.
Hydrologists may work with other scientists, engineers, and public policy officials to create water conservation initiatives and regulations.
According to the BLS, job growth for hydrologists is expected to increase by 5 percent (2019-2029).
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Bachelor's in Geoscience Degrees
For students who need assistance paying for their education, financial aid is available through the federal government. To see if they qualify, students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility requirements include proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen status, enrollment at an accredited school, and evidence of financial need.
Additional financial aid is available through scholarships, grants, and fellowships which students can search for and apply to online. Some colleges offer private scholarships through the school. Other options may include an employer tuition reimbursement program, work-study opportunities, and military/veteran benefits.
Students should visit their school's financial aid office for additional information about paying for college, tuition financing, and scholarships.
Society of Exploration Geophysicists Scholarship
The Society of Exploration Geophysicists Scholarships is available to individuals who are graduating high school seniors or currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student in college. Students should be pursuing or intending to pursue geophysics or a related curriculum. To be considered, applicants should submit an online application, updated transcripts, and contact information for two faculty members who will serve as references. Winners will receive awards from $500 to $10,000, however, the average award is about $2,600.
Janet Cullen Tanaka Geosciences Undergraduate Scholarship
The Janet Cullen Tanaka Geosciences Undergraduate Scholarship is available to female undergraduate students pursuing a geoscience-related degree at a college or university in Oregon or Washington State. Applicants should maintain a minimum 3.2-grade point average and submit the following: current transcripts, a paragraph that explains their financial situation, an essay demonstrating their interest in geoscience careers, and three letters of recommendation. Winners will be awarded $1,500 based on their academic and prospective professional achievements, as well as their financial needs.
