B.S. in Geology

Corvallis, Oregon

 

INTAKE: Jan, Mar, June & Sept

Program Overview

The B.S. in Geology program at Oregon State University offers students a comprehensive education that integrates classroom instruction, field-based learning, laboratory techniques, and research opportunities. With its emphasis on foundational geoscience courses, advanced specializations, field experiences, and research opportunities, the program prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in geosciences, environmental consulting, resource exploration, education, and government agencies. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to address pressing geological challenges, understand Earth's dynamic processes, and contribute to sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship efforts.

Curriculum:

  1. Foundational Geoscience Courses: The B.S. in Geology program at OSU begins with foundational geoscience courses that cover fundamental concepts such as mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology, and structural geology. Students learn about the composition, structure, and evolution of Earth's interior and surface processes, laying the groundwork for advanced studies in specialized areas of geology.

  2. Field-Based Learning: OSU's program emphasizes field-based learning experiences that allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world geological settings. Field trips to local geological sites, national parks, and field camps provide students with opportunities to observe geological formations, collect rock samples, and analyze geological structures firsthand. These immersive experiences enhance students' observational skills, geological mapping abilities, and understanding of geological processes.

  3. Advanced Specializations: The program offers advanced specializations in areas such as hydrogeology, environmental geology, tectonics, geophysics, and petroleum geology. Students have the flexibility to tailor their coursework to align with their career interests and academic goals. They may choose elective courses and research projects that focus on specific geological phenomena or resource exploration techniques.

  4. Laboratory Techniques and Analytical Skills: OSU's B.S. program provides students with hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and analytical skills essential for geological research and exploration. Students learn to analyze rock and mineral samples using microscopy, spectroscopy, and geochemical analysis methods. They gain proficiency in geospatial technologies, GIS mapping, and remote sensing techniques, enhancing their ability to interpret geological data and create geological models.

  5. Research Opportunities: The program offers research opportunities for students to engage in independent or collaborative research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. Students may conduct field-based research, laboratory experiments, or computational modeling studies to investigate geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, climate change impacts, or groundwater dynamics. These research experiences foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and scientific inquiry abilities.

Pollster Education

Location

Corvallis, Oregon

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 37290

Undergraduate Programs Entry requirements:

  • Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at OSU must have completed their secondary education or its equivalent with a minimum grade average of 83-86% or above.
     
  • English Language Proficiency:  
    • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5.
    • TOEFL: A minimum score of 70 on the internet-based test (iBT).
    • PTE: A PTE score of 48.
    • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 100.
       
  • SAT or ACT: SAT - 500 Verbal (or 560 evidence-based Reading/Writing) or ACT - 21 English/Reading is required.

Oregon State University (OSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. 

  1. International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship: The ICSP scholarship is a competitive scholarship awarded to outstanding international students who demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange. Recipients receive a tuition waiver of up to 15 credits per term and a monthly stipend.

  2. Provost's Scholarship for Excellence: This scholarship is available to incoming undergraduate international students who have exceptional academic records and demonstrate leadership potential. The scholarship covers a portion of non-resident tuition fees and is renewable for up to four years.

  3. International Achievement Scholarship: The International Achievement Scholarship is open to incoming undergraduate international students with a strong academic background. The scholarship provides partial tuition waivers ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year.

  4. INTO OSU Scholarships: INTO OSU, the university's international pathway program, offers a range of scholarships to support international students transitioning to OSU. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and can provide substantial tuition reductions.

  5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within Oregon State University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, field of study, or other criteria. Students are encouraged to explore the scholarship opportunities available within their respective colleges.

  6. Global Diversity Scholarship: The Global Diversity Scholarship aims to increase access to education for underrepresented international students. The scholarship is available to undergraduate and graduate students and provides a partial tuition waiver.

  7. Graduate Assistantships: OSU offers graduate assistantships to qualified international students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. These assistantships provide financial support in the form of a stipend and often include a tuition waiver.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts may vary from year to year. 

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geology from Oregon State University (OSU) opens up numerous career opportunities in various industries. The B.S. in Geology program at Oregon State University prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in geosciences, environmental science, engineering, and natural resource management. With their specialized knowledge, technical skills, and field experience, graduates play a crucial role in addressing societal challenges related to energy, water, climate, and environmental sustainability.

  1. Environmental Geologist: Graduates may work as environmental geologists, assessing the impact of human activities on the environment and developing strategies for environmental remediation and conservation. They evaluate soil and water quality, conduct environmental impact assessments, and recommend measures to mitigate pollution and preserve natural habitats.

  2. Petroleum Geologist: Graduates may pursue careers as petroleum geologists, working for oil and gas companies to explore and develop hydrocarbon reserves. They analyze geological data, interpret seismic surveys, and assess the potential for oil and gas extraction in subsurface reservoirs. They play a crucial role in locating and exploiting oil and gas deposits while ensuring environmental compliance and safety standards.

  3. Mining Geologist: Graduates may work as mining geologists, supporting mineral exploration and extraction projects in the mining industry. They identify mineral deposits, evaluate their economic viability, and develop mining plans that minimize environmental impact and maximize resource recovery. They may specialize in areas such as ore geology, mineral resource estimation, or mine site rehabilitation.

  4. Geotechnical Engineer: Graduates may pursue careers as geotechnical engineers, assessing the stability of soil and rock formations for engineering projects such as building construction, infrastructure development, and land development. They conduct site investigations, analyze geological hazards, and design foundations and slopes to ensure structural integrity and safety.

  5. Hydrogeologist: Graduates may work as hydrogeologists, studying the distribution, movement, and quality of groundwater resources. They assess groundwater recharge rates, conduct aquifer tests, and develop groundwater management plans to sustainably manage water supplies for drinking, agriculture, and industrial uses. They may also specialize in groundwater contamination remediation or groundwater modeling.

  6. Environmental Consultant: Graduates may work as environmental consultants, providing expertise to private companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations on environmental compliance, risk assessment, and natural resource management. They conduct environmental assessments, prepare regulatory documents, and advise clients on sustainable practices and regulatory requirements.

  7. GIS Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) specialists, using geospatial technologies to analyze and visualize geological data. They create maps, spatial databases, and spatial models to support environmental planning, resource management, and hazard mitigation efforts in industries such as environmental consulting, urban planning, and natural resource management.

  8. Research Scientist: Graduates may work as research scientists in academic institutions, government agencies, or research laboratories, conducting fundamental or applied research in fields such as geology, hydrology, climate science, or natural hazards. They may investigate geological phenomena, develop predictive models, and publish research findings in scientific journals to advance knowledge and inform public policy.


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