Tufts University Department of Geology Programs of Study

The Geology Department offers two programs: the Geological Sciences major, intended for students who wish to pursue graduate study in geology and related fields or entry level employment; and the Geology major, which emphasizes breadth and flexibility for students seeking a double major, teaching certification, medical programs, careers in multidisciplinary fields such as environmental law, or a broad-based liberal arts major.

Students considering a major in Geology or Geological Sciences should discuss their course selections with a faculty member in the Geology Department. This is particularly important because upper level courses are offered in alternate years. Careful planning will give students the opportunity to participate in more course offerings, optional field trips, and student-faculty research as an undergraduate.

Students intending to continue with geology after graduation should complete:

• Geology 1 and 2.
• Eight or more geology courses above Geology 9. The geology courses should normally include Geology 11, 12, 22, 32, 35, and one of the following: Geology 36, 102, 115, or 131.
• Mathematics 12, Chemistry 2, and Physics 1 and 2 (or 11 and 12) and their labs.
• Approved related fields courses may replace up to two upper-level geology courses.
• Research experience and a six-week geology summer field camp are strongly recommended.

Students electing this option should complete:

• Geology 1 and 2.
• Eight other geology courses (except Geology 9).
• Approved upper-level engineering courses may replace up to two of the upper-level geology courses.
• Approved related fields science courses may replace up to three of the upper-level geology courses.
• One semester of chemistry and physics.