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*

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.)
Muhammad Y. Sarwar
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.
Muhammad Y. Sarwar '15
Geology (B.S.)
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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.

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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.)

Alexander Grushow

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

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