Environmental geology studies the broad aspects of human-induced changes on Earth, the effects of pollution, and the problems associated with geological hazards, from flooding and landslides to earthquakes and volcanoes. PSU's minor in environmental geology provides you with an understanding of natural hazards and related land-use planning, waste disposal and pollution in the geological environment, water supply, mineral and energy resources, and the impacts of climate change.
Demand for environmental geologists is high, and our program prepares you for a variety of environmental jobs, including:
- management of resources such as fossil fuels, minerals, and water
- mitigation of earthquake, volcanic, landslide, and flood hazards
- assessments and remediation of contaminated sites
Our location gives you unparalleled opportunities to study natural hazards and the impacts they have on people and the environment, as floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis have all occurred in Oregon within the past century and preparations are underway for when "The Big One" hits.
In your courses, you'll enjoy small classes taught by faculty who are experts in topics such as geomorphology, hydrogeology, paleoseismology, structural and igneous petrology, tectonics, and volcanology. We also provide a range of hands-on experiences on and off-campus with labs and field trips to the mountains, coast, and eastern Oregon.
PSU's chapter of the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists provides students with opportunities to network with practicing professionals and learn more about the type of work being done in the fields and potential careers.
A minor in environmental geology will prepare you for a variety of environmental jobs, from forecasting geological events and problems and informing government officials and the public to assisting with the remediation of Superfund sites, or helping protect and restore coastal erosion.
Our graduates find work with government agencies, regulatory agencies, and environmental firms.