I did field, lab and analytical work. I participated on teams as well as spent time figuring things out on my own. I also presented research at professional meetings — an invaluable experience that made my learning relevant.
Program overview
Study the composition, structure and physical aspects of the earth in a program that explores multiple scientific disciplines to build your analytical and technical knowledge of geology. Conduct individual, faculty-led or team research projects to extend your learning outside of the classroom. *Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
7%
employment growth through 2030*
31K +
geology jobs projected in the U.S. through 2030*
$83,680
median annual salary for geoscientists in 2021*
Admission options

First-year - How to Apply
Rider is where your future begins. First-year students are defined as recent high school graduates who are attending college for the first time. There are so many opportunities ahead. Take the first step towards your tomorrow at Rider.

Transfer - How to Apply
No matter where you began your journey, Rider has the resources you need to continue moving forward. At Rider, transfer students are defined as students who are under the age of 25 and have credits from another college or university.

Continuing Education - How to Apply
Rider offers flexible pathways for adult learners aged 25 or over, including veterans and active duty military personnel, that allow you to earn your bachelor's degree or take courses for personal enrichment. Non-matriculated or visiting students should apply using the Continuing Education application.
Apply your passion for the Earth
You will leave well-prepared for productive careers in a number of fields, including science, academia, government, industry and nonprofit institutions. The major also provides solid training for the exploration of graduate studies in geology and its sub-disciplines.
Rider graduates have gone on to pursue advanced degrees at prestigious schools such as Brown University. So where can a Rider degree in geology lead you?
Common careers and organizations:
- Geoscientist
- Hydrologist
- Environmental consultant or specialist
- Geographer
- Educator
- U.S. Geological Survey
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory at Columbia University
- Gemological Institute of America
- New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
- Gateway National Recreation Area-Sandy Hook
- Consulting Firms (e.g. Langan Engineering and Environmental Services; Weston Solutions consulting; Environmental Compliance Monitoring, Inc.; Earth Engineering Incorporated; Clean Earth, Inc.)


Learn science by doing science
Geology students participate in extensive laboratory and field studies to professionally apply and integrate what they’ve learned to complex, real-world geologic problems. You’ll attend a senior-level geology field camp, work as colleagues in the field with your professors, take on exciting internships and have opportunities to use adventure as your educational asset.
Program requirements
The geology major features a broad and challenging curriculum, which emphasizes and investigates many of the important geologic subdisciplines. These include rock-forming mechanisms and controls, deformational and tectonic processes, the weathering and erosion of geologic materials, the transport and deposition of derived sediments and the evolutionary history of earth.

Financial aid resources
Learn more about financial aid, tuition and the various options we offer to make your college education affordable.
Contact
Geology (B.S.)
Professor, Department Chair
Department of Earth and Chemical Sciences
Mike and Patti Hennessy Science and Technology Center
grushow [at] rider.edu
609-896-5095
Academic Focus: Chemistry
