When you major in geology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, you will study the Earth’s minerals, rocks and landforms, and the processes that cause them to change over time. Learn about the causes of geological hazards (e.g., earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, landslides), and the occurrence of the elements and materials necessary for a clean energy future. Gain practical experience through laboratory analysis and fieldwork.

The Nebraska Difference

Curiosity

Discover what moves you with a diverse blend of academic disciplines.

account-group-circle(users)

Flexibility & Choice

Customize your degree with course choices. Add a minor or second major.

greek-column(places)

Hands-On Experience

Build knowledge, skills and experience in and out of the classroom.

graduate(people)

Limitless Career Paths

Connect your major, interests and goals to any field.

Students sit at table talking with an advisor.

Program Features

Focus and Range 

Dive deep into your geology major while taking a wide variety of courses across all areas in the College of Arts and Sciences. Graduate academically well-rounded and eager to keep learning. Use your collaboration and communication skills to address complex problems and make a positive impact professionally and personally. 

1-to-1 Academic Advising and Career Coaching 

Along with your faculty, professional academic advisors and career coaches will help you make a one-of-a-kind degree plan. We are focused on your success, while at Nebraska and after graduation, whether your goal is employment or graduate/professional school. 

Learn from the Experts 

Geology faculty specialize in over 40 earth, air and water areas and are part of geological research projects worldwide. 

Student in class look up attentively.

Notable Courses

Dynamic Earth (GEOL 101)

Examination of minerals and rocks; investigation of geological processes and their products.

Minerology (GEOL 200)

Crystallography and mineral optics, mineral classes, crystal chemistry and mineral identification methods. Includes microscope techniques and field methods.

Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (GEOL 300)

Sedimentary rocks and processes, their descriptive parameters, occurrence, origin and significance. Stratified rocks in time and space, and methods of correlating geologic units.

Structural Geology (GEOL 400)

Folding and faulting of rocks, texture and structure, cleavage, joints, dikes and unconformities. Structural interpretation of geologic maps; plate tectonics, mountain belts and regional structures.

Volcanology and Igneous Petrology (GEOL 412)

The study of igneous systems, including an investigation of volcanic processes, mineral equilibria, petrography and the geochemistry of magmas and minerals.

Micro-paleontology (GEOL 431)

Morphology, classification, ecology and geological application of common fossil and extant marine, brackish and freshwater microfossils.

Huskers Do Big Things

Internships

  • Geologist, Shell Inc.
  • Integrated water management specialist assistant, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources
  • Student intern-hydrology, United States Geological Survey
  • Geology intern, Twin Rivers Testing & Environmental
  • Integrated water management intern, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources

Careers

  • Geologist, Marathon Oil Company
  • Hydrogeologist, United States Geologic Survey
  • Drafter, Manilli Wagner
  • Geologist, NioCorp
  • Mud-logger, Selman and Associates

Graduate Schools

  • Master’s degree, Material Science, University of Dayton
  • Master’s degree, STEM Education, University of Iowa
  • Master’s degree, Geophysics, California Institute of Technology
  • Master’s degree, Hydrogeology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  • Ph.D., Geology, University of Michigan

Outside the Classroom

Depending on your major, interests and goals, you can choose to do research, work as an intern, study abroad, become a leader or serve your community. The university’s Experiential Learning requirement ensures you have at least one of these transformative learning experiences; students in the College of Arts and Sciences typically complete at least two.

science-lightbulb(school-science)

Academics & Experiential Learning

  • Our motto is Academics + Experience = Opportunities. Employers and graduate/professional schools are looking for students who have a strong academic background and hands-on experience.
  • Geology majors regularly engage in research or internships, and many study abroad or get involved in service or leadership on campus and beyond.
certificate-2(vote-rewards)

Career Preparedness

  • CASC 200: Career Development in Arts and Sciences. Explore your interests, abilities and values while identifying career options and preparing to apply for internships, jobs or graduate/professional school.
  • GEOL 460: Summer Field Course. Build skills and knowledge alongside other Huskers and partner institutions during this 6-week experience in a geologically classic area.
network-people(business)

Community

  • Join Students in Earth and Atmospheric Science (SEAS) to build connections with students and faculty as well as guest speakers and alumni.
  • Participate in field tours to study the geology of the Western United States while earning credit.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help

If you have questions about the Geology major or navigating the application process, contact us.

Nicholas Gordon portrait.
Contact Name
Nicholas Gordon
Contact Title
Director of Recruitment
Phone
Phone
Email
Envelope