Undergraduate Degree Programs

Download the Undergrad Survival Guide PDF.

Degree Programs — Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Geology and Geophysics is an interdisciplinary scientific degree program that prepares students for both graduate education and the professional marketplace in geology, geophysics, or related fields. The B.S. offers students a comprehensive introduction to all of the major tools, disciplines, and topics of the Earth Sciences.

The largely similar Bachelor of Arts in Geology has fewer requirements and somewhat greater flexibility, more suitable for students who wish to become teachers or relate a geologic background to another field such as law, scientific journalism, planning, or others.

Student learning objectives (SLOs) for GG BA and BS degrees

The GG department has identified 5 main objectives for the degree program. You can download a chart of the undegraduate degree SLOs to see how each course in the program introduces and reinforces these objectives

Skills Obtained from GG Bachelors Degrees

Knowledge of the geological sciences and sub-disciplines in a global context and with a Hawaiian Islands focus.
Using scientific principles, particularly the fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics, in the study of Earth and planetary systems.
Critical thinking, particularly problem solving and using the scientific method. Throughout our curriculum students are asked to define problems, collect and analyze appropriate data, and apply various methodologies and techniques to solve and draw defensible conclusions relating to scientific problems.
Global awareness and social relevance, particularly of geologic phenomena. Throughout their coursework students have multiple opportunities to examine the interaction of natural processes and humankind. Special emphasis is given to contributions of geological inquiry to social, cultural, and economic aspects of the human condition.
Verbal and written communications. Students majoring in Geology and Geophysics are given training to develop their oral and written communication skills. This includes in-class presentations, written reports, and group projects emphasizing information exchange in a clear concise manner

Undergraduate Degree Programs

Degree Programs — Overview

Student learning objectives (SLOs) for GG BA and BS degrees

Skills Obtained from GG Bachelors Degrees

Undergraduate Degrees Offered

Scholarship Information

Department Information for Current Students

Graduate Application Forms

G&G Student Work

5 Yr Draft Department Course Schedule