Geology

Note: All students entering either the Geology or Applied and Environmental Geology programs must first complete a common Geological Sciences core (20 half-courses). Once these courses are completed (with a C- or better), students may enter the third year of the Geology or Applied and Environmental Geology program.

Geology is the study of the earth processes, resources, and all the physical aspects of our planet. Its scope includes processes such as the eruption of volcanoes, development of river deltas, and uplift of entire mountain ranges. It also includes study of the geologic record preserved in the rocks of the earth, revealing processes that occurred in the past such as changes in atmosphere and climate, the drowning of continents by the sea, and development of life on earth.

Geology encompasses many diverse disciplines that concentrate on particular earth materials and processes as well as features of geologic time periods within the record. Mineralogy (mineral formation and composition), petrology (rock and rock-forming processes), geochemistry (chemical composition of and chemical processes within rocks and fluids), stratigraphy (rock layering and sediments), structural geology (processes of rock deformation), paleontology (fossilized life forms and their arrangement in the geologic record), surficial geology (surface modifying processes), geomorphology (landforms created by surface modifying processes) and planetary science (applications of geologic science to other solar- system bodies) are all branches of geological study. These branches offer scientists the opportunity to explore all facets of our physical earth using a variety of geological approaches.

Why Study Geology?

Out and about
Successful geology students are curious individuals interested in science and capable in mathematics. They are simultaneously detectives and historians who enjoy solving problems that can be related to processes or events thousands of kilometres away or billions of years in the past. It is also the most outdoor-oriented discipline of the basic sciences; the entire earth serves as a laboratory for geologists. Geology is great for individuals who enjoy being active, and are passionate about discovering the origins of their natural surroundings.

A stone’s throw away
The Department of Geoscience is located within of one of the largest concentrations of geoscientists in the world, and benefits from interactions with industry, the Geological Survey of Canada’s Calgary offices, and the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology in Drumheller. Moreover, the department also has access to magnificent natural geological laboratories, in particular the Alberta Basin (the major source of Canada’s oil-and-gas production), and the immense concentration of mountain ranges constituting the Canadian Cordillera. Students can look forward to a rewarding education with numerous opportunities to study and experience geological phenomena first-hand!

Researching success
Innovative research is part of the Department of Geoscience's success. There are a large number of ongoing faculty research projects, many in partnership with other Canadian and international institutions, headed by award-winning members of the department. This is augmented by unmatched opportunities for collaboration of students and faculty with scientists in private industry, and with government agencies such as the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). In addition, the department is a Canadian leader in computer-aided mapping practices, and recognizes the importance of numeric and computer skills in the dynamic world of geosciences.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology with a Concentration in Petroleum Geology

Students in the Geology degree program have the option of directing their studies towards the field of petroleum geology. Students will be exposed to principles and theories behind hydrocarbon accumulation, maturation, migration and trapping, as well as global occurrences of petroleum. Career options for pursuing this concentration are obviously geared towards the oil and gas industry in both the field and office environments.

What do I need to get in?

You’ll need to meet the admission requirements of the Faculty of Science.

What will I study in my first year?

All students entering either the Geology or Applied and Environmental Geology programs must first complete a common Geological Sciences core (20 half-courses). Once these courses are completed (with a C- or better), students may enter the third year of the Geology or Applied and Environmental Sciences program.

The courses in the first year of the Geological Sciences core provide students with an introduction into physical and historical Geology and help you build a strong foundation in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics. The second year includes fundamental geoscience courses in mineralogy, sedimentology and stratigraphy, geologic field methods, geochemistry, structural geology and exploration geophysics. An additional course in Mathematics gives you a basic understanding of linear algebra, which in addition to the fundamental geosciences courses prepares you for subsequent major field courses.

What will I study in later years?

In your third and fourth years as a Geology major, you’ll study additional geoscience fundamentals such as igeneous, metamorphic and sedimentary petrology, crystallography and optical mineralogy, paleontology and advanced geologic field methods. In addition to these core geoscience courses you’ll select from a number of related geoscience, engineering and science options giving you the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of geology and/or prepare yourself for professional accreditation (with APEGGA for example, the Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists), as well as graduate schools or careers in academics or industry. Honours students complete a research project under the guidance of a faculty member. During your degree you are also expected to take a number of courses from outside your major field and are encouraged to take courses that will provide breadth and contribute to the interdisciplinary nature of your degree.

What can I do with my degree?

Geology graduates have a strong foundation in geological topics and concepts such as surface and chemical processes, the origin and distribution of fossil fuels and mineral deposits, as well as the earth’s physical and biological evolution. They are familiar with various branches of geological study (mineralogy, geomorphology, paleontology, etc.) and are able to synthesize their knowledge to solve complex problems logically. Graduates can also use, collect, interpret and construct maps of geological data, identify rock and mineral samples, and apply principles of modern ecology, biology and evolution to the fossil record.

Geology graduates may find employment in science, engineering or environmental companies. They might also act as private consultants, working on projects/studies involving infrastructure, water systems, environmental assessment, and waste disposal. They can search for, develop and manage oil, water and mineral resources for petroleum, hydrology and mining companies, and conduct geological and geophysical surveys for government agencies. Employment in public parks systems and museums are additional career options.

Who can I contact for more information?

For general information, or to book an appointment with a Geology advisor, contact:

Tracy Quinton (Undergraduate Program Administrator)
Phone: (403) 220-5850
E-mail: tlquitno@ucalgary.ca