The geology concentration in the Ocean & Earth Sciences B.S. degree is designed for students with a wide range of professional goals in the sciences, engineering, business, and the arts. Students seeking employment in pure and applied fields of geology, including environmental geology, geological oceanography, hydrogeology, marine geology, geobiology, geophysics, and geochemistry, should also choose their courses to support certification as a professional geologist (below). Students considering graduate work in these fields should similarly build their backgrounds accordingly. Students with a strong interest in geological applications of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing tools should consider the geology concentration with a minor in geography; the certificate program in spatial analysis of coastal environments also emphasizes this area of study.
Program Highlights
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The program provides student with the necessary training for employment with a B.S. in a wide range of federal, state, local and private venues.
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The program provides students with the necessary background for graduate work in geology, oceanography, marine science, and environmental science.
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Small class sizes at the upper division level means student work closely with faculty in their discipline as a part of their undergraduate experience.
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Geophysical Data Technicians
Measure, record, or evaluate geological data, using sonic, electronic, electrical, seismic, or gravity-measuring instruments to prospect for oil or gas. May collect or evaluate core samples or cuttings.
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. May use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge in exploration for oil, gas, minerals, or underground water; or in waste disposal, land reclamation, or other environmental problems. May study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Includes mineralogists, crystallographers, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.
Geological Sample Test Technicians
Test or analyze geological samples, crude oil, or minerals to detect presence of petroleum, gas, or mineral deposits indicating potential for exploration or production or to determine physical or chemical properties to ensure that products meet quality standards.
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in the physical sciences, except chemistry and physics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Alumni Careers
Requirements
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Students must first declare the Ocean and Earth science major, geology concentration, with the chief departmental advisor (CDA).
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Entering students should be prepared to take MATH 211 (Calculus I), although students with math deficiencies can take remedial math classes as needed (e.g., MATH 102M, 103M, 162M, 163 or 166, as needed; note that all of these courses will not necessarily be required before taking MATH 211; please consult the catalog or CDA for details).
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
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Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
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