The Ohio State University School of Earth Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Earth Science: Geological Sciences Subprogram

Students and teaching assistants at Arches National Park during field camp make an O-H-I-O.

Bachelor of Science in Earth Science: Geological Sciences Subprogram

The Geological Sciences BS subprogram revolves around the study of Earth’s composition, structure, and natural processes, and how these have changed over Earth’s 4.56 billion-year history. Geoscientists work to understand our planet’s history and current processes using a broad swath of natural and physical sciences. Because their work occurs at the intersection of the biosphere, geosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere, geoscientists are uniquely positioned to help society and the environment.

Program Requirements

The Geological Sciences Subprogram requires 24 credit hours of courses in addition to the 7-10 credit hours of core courses required for all Earth Science BS students. Like all Earth Science BS Subprograms, Geological Sciences requires the completion of an approved certificate, minor, or any second major. The Geological Sciences Subprogram has a 50% overlap with the School of Earth Sciences' Petroleum Geology and Natural History Museum Curation Certificates, meaning that it is possible to earn one of these certificates with as little as 2 additional courses.

Sample 4-year curriculum

Preparation for the Major (27-29 units)

Note: Supporting science requirements will be changing in spring 2027. See updated requirements.

Supporting math and science (take all, 20 units):

Choose 1 additional supporting science courses (4-5 units):

One introductory Earth Science course & lab (4 units)

with:

Sustainability Course Requirement (4 units) 

Required for everyone in the Geological Sciences Subprogram (24 units)

EARTHSC 5189.02 comprises the Summer Field Camp program, partially taught in Utah.

Required for all Earth Sciences BS (7-10 units)

  • EARTHSC 2000: Preparation for Thesis and Careers in Earth Sciences (1 unit, au)
  • EARTHSC 2245: Introductory Data Analysis for Earth and Environmental Sciences (4 units, sp)
  • EARTHSC 4999.01: Undergraduate Research for Thesis in Earth Sciences (1 unit, graded)

Applying for research distinction

If you choose to apply for research distinction, you must enroll in 1 unit of 4999.01 in the semester you plan to graduate and enroll in at least 3 units of 4999.02 anytime during your degree, which includes the semester you plan to graduate. Honors program students should enroll in 4999.01H and 4999.02H. Applications to apply for research distinction are due early in your penultimate semester. More information is available at the ASC advising website. 

Advising information

Director of Undergraduate Studies (Earth Sciences): Professor Liz Griffith, griffith.906@osu.edu 

Undergraduate Academic Advisor (Earth Sciences): Dr. Karen Royce, royce.6@osu.edu, 614-292-6961

The state of Ohio does not license Geologists; however, if you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure and certification and state licensing board contact information at the Office of Distance Education and eLearning- State Authorizations for Students.