Geology investigates the origin, history, composition and structure of Earth, enabling professional geologists to survey earthquakes and volcanoes; find oil, gas and mineral resources; develop land-use plans; monitor rivers, lakes and coastlines; and much more.
Overview
Our program provides a foundation in the principles of geology and its related sciences with four laboratories, a seismograph and field experiences. A newer track on environmental earth sciences integrates a set of cross-disciplinary environmental science experiences from biological sciences, chemistry, meteorology and physics.
Oswego is ideally located for field studies of Lake Ontario, carbonate and clastic sedimentary rocks of the Lower Paleozoic age, Precambrian rocks of the Adirondacks, Pleistocene glacial features and the pollution of rivers and ground waters. Field trips may include southeastern Pennsylvania, the Chesapeake Bay, Ithaca, Whitaker State Park, and the Catskill Mountains.
You also can perform research with professors around the country, or learn firsthand about field-based research and much more in our Geology Field Program. Build your resume through internships and co-op opportunities, and complete an independent research project under the direction of a faculty adviser. Study geology abroad through through regular coursework or research placements.
Shineman Center for Science, Engineering and Innovation
This $118 million-dollar facility serves as the home for the mathematics, science, computing and engineering programs. This 230,00 square-foot center features a planetarium, three observation decks, a greenhouse, extensive laboratories and state of-the-art equipment.
Outcomes
- Ability to work as part of a team or individually, and communicate the results of the endeavors
- Ability to use critical thinking skills when comparing and evaluating different positions on scientific issues
- Literature review, professional writing and oral communication skills
- Quantitative skills, including ability to generate, display, analyze and interpret a wide variety of data
- Collection of quality data and/or samples in both field and laboratory setting
- Understanding of ethics in science
Career Opportunities
- Urban planning
- Environmental restoration
- Defense intelligence
- Oil, gas and mineral exploration
- Teaching
- Geophysics research
- Environmental consulting
- Federal, state and local government agencies
My experience at SUNY Oswego has made me more confident. I've had amazing research opportunities in my major and worked with wonderful professors. I find myself learning more and more everyday.
I did research this past summer for three weeks. We focused on the Devonian Mass Extinction. I learned how to conduct research in the field, to solve problems efficiently and use geologic equipment.
I am currently participating in research and it's a great experience. I'm learning different skills that not many other students in my major get to learn.
Before declaring, professors and students from the department reached out to me and voiced their welcoming of any questions or concerns I had regarding the program.
Program Resources
The Oswego Guarantee
- Timely course offerings
- High touch connections to alumni
- Small student to faculty ratio
- Limited room & board increases each year
Co-Ops
Apply for this full-time, paid integrated learning experience that allows you to gain hands on experience in a professional environment.
Research
Apply the knowledge you learn in the classroom to research in the field and laboratory.