Geology is the study of Earth. The planet is about 4.5 billion years old. It is constantly changing as a result of various rapid and slow processes that range from floods and volcanoes, to the movement of plates and evolution of species. Geologists identify earth materials, analyze forces that act within the earth to produce major features of the earth's crust, identify processes that sculpt surface features; identify and explore resources that are vital to modern societies (oil) and apply this knowledge to solve industrial and societal problems.

The geology program at Illinois State University has seven full-time faculty members who emphasize undergraduate education.

Degrees and Curriculum

Students may earn a B.S. degree in Geology, or a B.S. in Earth and Space Science Education. Regardless of the major track students also develop and exercise critical thinking, writing and quantitative skills. The major curriculum provides a balance between traditional liberal arts, and technical and analytical skills. The main thrust of instruction continues to be in practical and applied geology. Our students are provided with ample experience in the field through course field trips and summer field courses. Other practical skills are learned in the classroom laboratory.