Academic Programs - Undergraduate

Geology

Geology is an exploration of the dynamics of our planet and its resources. It is also an exploration of the most economic and sustainable ways to use those resources.

For students who appreciate a good mystery and the great outdoors.

A student stands on a rock outcropping exposed by low tide in the Minas Basin. Cape Blomidon is visible in the distance.

By choosing to study geology you will become a scientific detective. You will work closely with your professors to uncover the Earth’s past and predict its future. Do you enjoy the outdoors and have a good scientific knowledge base? Do you want to understand how the world around you works? If so, you will find the field of earth sciences rewarding.

The Geology program is specifically designed to allow graduating students to register as a professional geoscientist and is available at both the BSc and BSc (Honours) levels. Acadia’s curriculum allows you to achieve professional registration as a geologist. It includes a core of courses at the first-year to fourth-year levels. You may also choose elective courses tailored to your interests. Outside the Department of Earth and Environmental Science, you will study chemistry, math and physics.

Class sizes are small. You will take frequent field trips and be part of a close-knit community. The strong network you develop will typically continue long past graduation. The integration of field work and technology gives you rewarding hands-on experience and exposure to all aspects of geology. Faculty members are dedicated to your success. You will receive individual attention.

First Year at a Glance

First semester

  • GEOL 1013 and GEOL 1010L
    Our Dynamic Earth, with Lab
  • CHEM 1013 and CHEM 1010L
    General Chemistry 1, with Lab
  • MATH 1013
    Introductory Calculus 1
  • PHYS 1053
    Introductory Physics 1
  • ARTS xxx3
    Introductory arts course

Second semester

  • GEOL 1023
    Earth History: Global Change through Time
  • CHEM 1023
    General Chemistry 2
  • MATH 1023
    Introductory Calculus 2
  • PHYS 1063
    Introductory Physics 2
  • ARTS xxx3
    Introductory arts course

Future Careers

  • Exploration geologist
  • Geochemist
  • Geographic information systems (GIS) specialist
  • Geophysicist
  • Hydrogeologist
  • Marine geologist
  • Museum curator
  • Seismologist
  • Petroleum geologist, and many other careers in the environmental, mining, and oil industries
 

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Related Programs

Geology is closely connected to many other disciplines that might interest you, such as:

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