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Geology explores Earth's composition and evolution. This field examines planetary formation and transformation, with a primary focus on our home planet. Geologists analyze Earth's interior and surface structures, materials, and the chemical/physical processes shaping them, applying principles from mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology to comprehend terrestrial systems.
The Geology Professional Track prepares students for geoscience careers in both private and public sectors, as well as for advanced graduate studies. This curriculum aligns with industry standards, academic expectations, and government requirements. To earn a B.S. degree, students must fulfill departmental prerequisites, complete capstone projects, select core discipline courses, and finish 58-62 credits of electives plus 16 supporting credits, alongside General Education requirements totaling at least 120 credits. Geology majors must maintain a C- minimum in required geology courses and a C- average in supporting courses. The program includes mandatory field trips where students cover lodging (when necessary) and meals. Field camp occurs during summer at external institutions approved by the University of Maryland, College Park department.