Majors in Geoscience

  • Geoscience class outdoors

    GEOSCIENCE: A MAJOR AS BIG AS THE OUTDOORS — Professor John Taylor often takes his geology, paleontology, and stratigraphy classes outdoors. He's an expert on invertebrate fossils and the depositional environments that produced the rocks they're found in.

    Recent grad Heather Empfield works for McLanahan Corporation

    Mineral Processing Engineer Uses Her Courses on the Job

    “Because of the small classes and the student-teacher interaction, I was well prepared. I’ve used almost every course I took in my job. For example, when I look at the stratigraphic map and identify the mineral compositions, I’m using what I learned in Professor John Taylor’s Stratigraphy course.”

    Heather Empfield, BS in Geoscience, 2012; Mineral Processing Engineer, McLanahan Corporation, Hollidaysburg, PA

    Expand your scientific knowledge, develop your critical thinking, and discover the power of collaboration

    As a geology major you will investigate the sciences of astronomy, geology, meteorology, and oceanography in a collaborative environment. But that’s just the foundation. You will be immersed within the scientific community at IUP, working directly with faculty on their research projects, going out in the field – locally, regionally, and elsewhere in North America (i.e. Newfoundland, the Yellowstone region, the Bahamas, and the American Southwest). You will learn to evaluate and assess important issues of climate change, fossil fuel energy, and environmental quality.  And best of all, you will be challenged by your peers and professors.

    Because there are so many directions that are open to geology majors, you can choose one of three different tracks. There is also a BSEd option for those who would like to pursue a career as a teacher. In addition, we offer a Minor in Geology and a Certificate in Shale Gas Energy.

    Geology/Geology Track, BS

    • Become a well-trained, professional geologist able to compete for positions as a professional geologist in the job market.
    • Gain the necessary allied science and mathematics background to qualify for admission to the graduate school of your choice in geology.

    Geology/Environmental Track, BS

    • Acquire a solid foundation in geosciences while also exploring biology and chemistry.
    • Achieve the skill necessary to compete in the rapidly growing field of environmental geoscience.

    Geology/Energy Resources Track, BS

    • Prepare yourself for direct entry into the energy industry with a focus on the discovery and development of energy resources and geophysical exploration techniques.
    • Take advantage of your proximity to the Marcellus shale, and gain first-hand experience of what it’s like to be in the field.

    Earth and Space Science Education, BSEd

    • Acquire the foundation and skills you need to gain certification to teach secondary earth and space science education in Pennsylvania and many other states. 
  • Geoscience Department
  • Walsh Hall, Room 111
    302 East Walk
    Indiana, PA 15705
  • Phone: 724-357-2379
  • Fax: 724-357-6208
  • Office Hours
  • Monday–Friday
  • 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.