Department of Geology

The Geology Department explores and celebrates the rich tapestry of geodiversity that our planet offers, encompassing the myriad geological features, processes, and landscapes that shape the Earth's dynamic history. Geology is essential for finding solutions to climate change, natural hazard mitigation, pollution and waste disposal, resource exploration and sustainability, and engineering projects.

Programs of study

The Geology Department offers applied degrees and certificates to prepare students for careers in industry, government, and education.

Bachelor of Arts in Geology Bachelor of Science in Geology Master in Earth, Environmental, and Physical Sciences Certificate in Environment and Sustainability

Dynamic Subject

Earth is our home. Earth is also an active, dynamic planet. The processes that shape and change our planet have economic, anthropologic, and social ramifications.

Geology is the study of the processes that shape the solid Earth through time, and their interaction with the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.

Societal issues addressed by the geosciences

Applied Science

Geology is essential for finding solutions to climate change, natural hazard mitigation, pollution and waste disposal, resource exploration and sustainability, as well as civil engineering investigations.

Geologists work to understand the Earth through field work, rock descriptions, mapping, geophysical techniques, chemical analyses, physical experiments, and numerical modeling.

What Geoscientists do

Students participate in a surveying project

Practical Discipline

The Department of Geology offers degrees and certificates that prepare students for careers in industry, government, or academia.

The geology program at Wichita State offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), a Certificate in Environment and Sustainability, and a Master of Science (MS) degree through the Earth, Environmental and Physical Science (EEPS) Program.

Job outlook - Geoscientists Job outlook - Related occupations

Geology Scholarships and Fellowships

Through the generosity of its alumni and industry supporters, the Geology Department proudly awards more than $60,000 annually in scholarships and awards to qualified undergraduate majors and graduate students.

Current WSU students interested in any Fairmount College scholarship, including physics, can submit an application through ScholarshipUniverse.

ScholarshipUniverse

Department Information

Students stop by the side of the road to examine rock

Donations, Scholarships, Fellowships

Walter ver Wiebe, the first geology department chair at Wichita State

Department History

Sun shining down on a vista of a rocky valley dotted with pine trees

Geodiversity Statement

Wichita State Geology Department is committed to exploring and celebrating the rich tapestry of geodiversity that our planet offers. Geodiversity is the foundation of our discipline, encompassing the myriad geological features, processes, and landscapes that shape the Earth's dynamic history. We believe that understanding and preserving geodiversity is not only crucial for advancing scientific knowledge but also for ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for our planet. Through our research, education, and outreach efforts, we aim to foster a deep appreciation for the Earth's geological diversity and promote responsible stewardship of our natural heritage.