The Department of Geological Sciences offers both undergraduate and masters degree programs. Through formal courses, field work, and research projects, the students develop an awareness of the geological processes that shape our planet, and their impact on society and the environment. The undergraduate major in geology offers concentrations in both General Geology and Environmental Geoscience.Elementary education and secondary education concentrations in Earth Science are offered at both the undergraduate and masters levels. These programs are described under the School of Education listings. An undergraduate degree in Environmental Geochemical Science, also offered by this department, has a separate listing. A minor in geology is available for those majoring in other fields.Interdisciplinary in nature, the undergraduate degree in geology requires courses in geology and cognate areas. The General Geology option is recommended for those contemplating graduate work in the geological sciences. For any of the geology programs, Physical Geology (GLG201 and GLG211 lab) should be taken in the fall semester of the freshman year, followed by Historical Geology (GLG202) in the spring. General Chemistry I (CHE201 and CHE211 lab), General Chemistry II (CHE202 and CHE212 lab) and Calculus I (MAT251) should also be taken in the freshman year. It is also possible to begin the major in the sophomore year with proper advising.