Degrees in Geosciences

The Bachelor of Arts degree is the minimum preparation appropriate for the field and is best combined with other degree programs, such as a second major or a minor. The minor in Geosciences is ideal for those who do not have the time or space to complete a major in the field.

Students must take GEOS 201 which is offered both fall and spring. Completion of this course with a grade of C+ or higher is a prerequisite for enrolling in the upper division courses in the program. The department strongly recommends that all students complete MATH 140 or higher before enrolling in 300-level and higher courses in geosciences. The department also strongly encourages students to complete the Chemistry and Physics requirements as early as possible. Students should also note that upper-division courses are offered on a two-year cycle. Early declaration of a major or minor in geosciences will facilitate development of individual programs and avoid scheduling conflicts.

Students must complete a capstone project for the major. They may not use the capstone of another major to fulfill the Geosciences capstone. While there may be overlap in the topic chosen, they must complete all of the Geosciences capstone requirements and take GEOS 498 and 499.

See the PLU catalog for more information about all graduation requirements.

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

34 semester hours in the following geosciences courses, plus 4 semester hours in supporting courses

The Bachelor of Arts degree is the minimum preparation for the field and is best combined with other degree programs, such as another major or minor. Students interested in Earth Science and completing a Bachelor of Arts in Education often combine it with this degree.

  • Required: GEOS 201, 401, 498, 499
  • 8 semester hours from: GEOS 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, or 109
  • 16 semester hours from: GEOS 325, 327, 331, 332, 334, 335, 336, 340, 345, 350 or 387/388/389
  • Required Supporting non-geoscience course: CHEM 104 or CHEM 115
  • Recommended: Geologic Field Experience
  • Course selections should reflect a student’s interests and are discussed with an advisor
  • All courses taken for the major must be completed with a grade of C- or higher.

The details of the degree requirements are summarized in the Academic Program Contract for the B.A. in Geosciences found on the Documents and Forms page.

Minor

20 semester hours in geosciences

The minor is for students with another major who are interested in geology but do not have space to complete a second major.

  • GEOS 201
  • A minimum of eight upper-division semester hours of geosciences courses
  • All courses for the minor must be completed with grade of C or higher

The details of the degree requirements are summarized in the Academic Program Contract for the Geosciences minor found on the Documents and Forms page.