Geology is the study of the Earth and its 4.5 billion-year history. As such, it unites and enhances the utility of the other natural sciences (biology, chemistry, physics) in our quest to understand life, the planet and the universe.Only through the systematic geological study of our planet can we hope to understand and predict the major events that influence our lives, including climatic variation, nutrient availability, rapid extinction, seismicity and volcanism. Geology also guides the unending quest for natural resources including ores, minerals, energy and water, and constrains the distribution, fate and remediation of natural and man-made contaminants. Our program prepares its graduates for exceptional opportunities for graduate school, careers in academia, research, teaching and consulting, and as informed citizens, capable of critically analyzing scientific issues and related policies.

Students may major or minor in geology or elect an interdisciplinary combined geology-physics major or environmental studies-geology major.

“St. Lawrence University was the perfect place to start [being a geologist], and my professors gave me a wonderful foundation that has helped me throughout my career. Geology at SLU is much more than book learning; it’s about understanding the Earth, enjoying the out of doors, and interacting with other students and scientists.”
Michael Perfit, 1971