Bachelor of Science
in Geology

Bachelor of Science
in Geology

Program Overview

Explore the History and Science of Earth With a Geology Degree from YSU

Prepare to become a rock-solid detective who unearths the past—and provides insights into the future—with Youngstown State University’s Bachelor of Science in Geology.

From coastal oceans to earthquakes, groundwater to volcanoes, YSU’s bachelor’s degree in geology will introduce you to a variety of topics to help you reach your professional goals. You’ll learn from experts in the field, gain valuable hands-on experience, and use a wide range of modern scientific instruments as you study topics such as environmental geophysics, engineering geology, energy resource exploration, forensic geology, and more.

With your Bachelor of Science in Geology, you’ll be prepared to make discoveries, pursue new knowledge, and tackle exciting and high-paying careers in the field of applied geology.

The Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences offers two geology degrees:

Both programs prepare you for employment in the field, but our Bachelor of Science in Geology offers a more rigorous curriculum and prepares you with a stronger pathway for admission to master’s and doctoral programs.

Beyond our Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Geology programs, YSU offers five minors to help you gain added expertise in the field:

Speak to a Faculty Member

Dr. Snjezana “Snow” Balaz

Chair, Environmental Science
sbalaz@ysu.edu

Why a Bachelor of Science in Geology at YSU?

Studying geology at YSU means exploring the Earth’s history, processes, and resources in small classes that foster personalized attention and collaborative learning. You’ll also benefit from:

  • Top-notch facilities: Our Forensic Geology Lab is fully equipped with instruments for detecting a wide variety of underground natural resources and locating buried evidence. Geology degree students also have access to a Rock Studio Lab, Sedimentology Lab, and the Clarence R. Smith Mineral Museum, which offers a world-class collection of fossils, gems, minerals, and rocks.
  • Expert educators: Many of our geology program faculty members are lifelong leaders in the field. Our professors have worked with county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to locate buried evidence, training them on a broad array of geophysical instruments. They also research buried corpse decomposition to assist law enforcement officials in their important work.
  • Opportunities to get involved beyond classes: As a YSU Geology major, you’ll join a supportive community of individuals who share your interests and passions for the field. Many of our students studying geology get involved with the YSU student chapter of the American Institute of Professional Geologists, which is an ideal way to connect and network with successful professional geologists.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor of Science in Geology?

YSU’s bachelor’s degree in geology prepares you to solve environmental issues, discover mineral and energy resources, and predict and mitigate natural hazards and disasters. Our graduates are sought after by regional, national, and international companies and organizations, where they work in areas such as:

  • Compliance
  • Construction
  • Energy
  • Engineering geology
  • Environmental geology
  • Geophysics
  • Government regulation
  • Hydrogeology
  • Mining
  • Petroleum geology
  • Water resources

Many of our BS in Geology graduates also pursue advanced degrees, including YSU’s master’s in environmental science.

A geology degree opens doors to a dynamic and growing field, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 5 percent increase in geoscientist jobs over the next decade. Additionally, the BLS reports a median annual salary of $92,580, making geology a rewarding career choice. With a Bachelor of Science in Geology from YSU, you’ll be well-positioned to thrive in this ever-growing profession.

Bachelor of Science in Geology: What You'll Study

Start your Bachelor's Degree in Geology Journey at YSU

Unearth new knowledge and discoveries with our Bachelor of Science in Geology. While studying geology at YSU, you’ll gain a broad-based education through a summer internship and in-depth coursework, including:

  • Field Investigations in Geology
  • Geological Field Methods
  • Geological Research Methods and Data Analysis
  • Geology in the Field
  • GIS Applications to Geology
  • Rock Studio
  • Subsurface Investigations

Explore Our Bachelor of Science in Geology Curriculum

Dig into the exciting field of geology with YSU’s Bachelor of Science in Geology. Our geology degree program equips you with the skills to explore the Earth’s fascinating history and contribute to its future.

Student Organizations

The STEM community has a variety of student professional organizations that allow you to grow and foster your learning in an environment with those who share the same interests. 

Student professional organizations provide opportunities for you to meet experienced professionals, collaborate with students at other universities, or form relationships with colleagues outside the classroom. They provide social, academic, entrepreneurial, and professional networking opportunities.

Scholarships Available

At YSU, we are one the most affordable geology programs in Ohio. Each year, thousands of dollars in scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Scholarships come from a variety of sources, vary in amount, and are available to both incoming and current students