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Geology Major

Geology Major

Learn the foundational concepts of geology with the Geology BA or Geology BS from the College of Science and Technology. Geologists use a combination of field and laboratory research to understand the physical, chemical and biological processes that have shaped our planet over time and how these processes affect us. You’ll cover topics like

  • energy resources;
  • environmental protection;
  • geologic hazards such as volcanic eruptions, storms and floods; and
  • global climate change.

Elevate your degree with a combination of upper-level classes that meet your interests and future goals, and prepare for postgraduate study or a career in development, policy and research.

Choosing between the BA and BS

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) is geared toward liberal arts students who want to concentrate in geology. Students gain exposure to the study of groundwater, minerals and physical geology. It is also well-suited for premedicine and prelaw students as well as those planning to teach earth science in secondary school. The BA degree requires slightly fewer credit hours than the BS degree, so you will have sufficient flexibility for electives outside the major.

The Bachelor of Science in Geology (BS) involves foundational and advanced science courses and is the best choice if you are considering graduate studies in the geosciences. The BS curriculum includes courses such as igneous and metamorphic geology, the use of computers and remote sensing in geology, paleontology and the interpretation of earth history through the study of sedimentary deposits. It also provides excellent preparation for a career in government, industry, research or teaching.

Learn more about courses and curriculum for the Geology BA and Geology BS.

Geology Major / Master of Education

You can also earn a Geology Major from the College of Science and Technology and a Master of Education from the College of Education and Human Development. Qualified students can earn a master’s degree in five years, instead of taking the usual six. Learn more about pursuing this accelerated degree.

Geology students performing a study in the field

Related Graduate Degrees

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $23,856.00 per year
Out-of-state: $39,480.00 per year

Our Academic Advisors

The Center for Academic Advising and Professional Development in the College of Science and Technology helps you navigate New Student Orientation, advises on specific degree programs and courses, provides post-graduation guidance, and offers peer support. You can also be matched with a qualified student advisor or advocate who will further assist with degree and academic questions or concerns.

Learn more about the Center for Academic Advising and Professional Development’s academic advisors and the CST Peer Team.

Program Contact

Contact the following faculty for more information about the Geology Major.

Allison Tumarkin-Deratzian is the vice chair and faculty advisor.
Phone: 215-204-2321
Email:

Ilya Buynevich is a faculty advisor.
Phone: 215-204-3635
Email:

Student Clubs & Organizations

Student clubs and organizations in the College of Science and Technology provide opportunities to meet with peers, network with professionals or scientists in your field of study, and learn about internship opportunities. The College of Science and Technology offers 15 major clubs and 12 prehealth clubs for undergraduate students. Enhance your academic study and social life by participating in a club related to your major or interests.

Students pursuing the Geology Major may be interested in the following clubs and organizations.

Explore the full list of College of Science and Technology student clubs and organizations.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Deepen your understanding of your math, natural science or computer science coursework by experiencing firsthand how such disciplines are studied overseas. Temple’s study abroad program offers College of Science and Technology students opportunities to spend a summer or semester studying in Germany, Italy, Japan and Spain. Learn more about your options for studying away.

College of Science and Technology undergraduate students can also take part in international research. These opportunities include the following external scholarship programs.

  • The Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship provides funding for underrepresented students to study in nontraditional destinations such as Australia and Eastern Europe.
  • The Boren Scholarship Summer STEM Initiative offers undergraduate STEM majors opportunities to participate in a language-intensive program.
  • The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research and Temple offer opportunities for students in biology, chemistry and physics programs to work in research groups in Pune, India, over the summer.
  • The Siena Biomedical Research Program provides the opportunity for students to spend their summer working full time in a biotechnology and pathology lab based in Tuscany, Italy.
  • The Sicily Applied Biotechnology Program allows students to learn the biological basis behind the technology used for art conservation and then apply that knowledge in the laboratory and in the field.

Learn more about study abroad programs for College of Science and Technology students.

Accreditation

As a division within Temple University, the College of Science and Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Additional Program Information