The BS is designed to satisfy the entrance requirements and expectations of the top graduate schools in the country. The BS is also the appropriate choice for a student seeking immediate employment as a geologist. Students are encouraged to participate in a research project supervised by a member of the faculty in Geological Sciences (see Undergraduate Research webpage). Additionally, with successful completion of an independent research paper and above-average performance in coursework, the student may be awarded Distinguished Independent Work in the Geological Sciences upon graduation.