Geology
February 3, 2022 2025-11-14 22:58Geology
Geology at Rocky Mountain College
At Rocky Mountain College, geology comes alive outside the classroom. Our students regularly learn and conduct research in the dramatic natural labs of Montana’s landscapes. Back on campus, you’ll experience small classes and close faculty mentorship, with access to modern labs and the latest mapping technology. Here, you’ll follow your curiosity—from the dynamic processes that shape our planet to the skills and knowledge needed for graduate study, teaching, or a career in energy, environmental science, or geotechnical fields.
Why Choose Geology at Rocky
RMC’s location in Montana means the Rockies, Yellowstone, and other world-class sites are your extended classroom. Our program emphasizes regular field trips and practical projects, bringing classroom theory to life in real-world environments. Experienced faculty provide individualized attention, and top students engage in independent faculty-guided research.
With professional-grade microscopes, cutting, polishing, and GIS equipment on campus—and collaborations with leading institutions for advanced analysis—you’ll have every opportunity to develop both advanced technical skills and true scientific intuition.
99%
of students receive scholarships or grants
Major and Minor Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Equestrian Studies program will:
- Describe and analyze geologic relationships using both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
- Develop, test, and revise geologic hypotheses through hands-on data collection and field work.
- Apply quantitative and conceptual skills to interpret Earth processes and the sequence of geologic events.
- Synthesize and communicate complex findings clearly in writing and presentations.
- Explain the physical and chemical properties of the Earth, time scales, and major geological processes within plate tectonics.
- Demonstrate practical geological skills—rock and mineral identification, geologic mapping, field and lab analysis.
$70K
average annual pay for Bachelor’s Degree in Geology in Montana according to ZipRecruiter
88%
of students are placed in internships
Coursework and Requirements
Your geology journey begins with fundamental courses on Earth’s materials and geologic history, then expands into specialized topics like stratigraphy, sedimentology, tectonics, and geomorphology. Extensive fieldwork is integrated throughout the curriculum.
Students can tailor upper-division electives based on interest—choosing from areas such as GIS, remote sensing, geochemistry, paleoclimate, or practical research projects. Whether you’re looking toward a career in resource exploration, environmental consulting, or science education, the program’s flexible structure and field emphasis will help you get there.
Course highlights include:
Course highlights include building essential lab skills in Fundamentals of Geology with Laboratory, identifying and analyzing rocks in Earth Materials, and mastering field techniques in Field Methods for Geoscientists. You’ll study ancient environments in Stratigraphy and Sedimentology, investigate Earth’s dynamic forces in Geomorphology and Tectonics, and synthesize it all through advanced projects and presentations in Applied Field Geology and the Capstone Seminar.
Explore Areas in Geology
Geology Major
A comprehensive curriculum covering core geological disciplines, with strong focus on hands-on fieldwork. Prepares you for immediate entry into geoscience careers or for graduate study. Students can further focus their studies through electives in GIS, geochemistry, natural resources, or environmental science.
Pair With:
Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Math—each strengthens your skills for grad school or geoscience careers by adding lab, analytical, or mapping expertise.
Career Pathways:
Environmental consulting, energy and mineral exploration, hydrology, geotechnical analysis, and graduate study in geosciences.
Geology Minor
A solid introduction to geoscience fundamentals, ideal for students majoring in biology, environmental science, physics, or education (and anyone interested in field-based science). The minor provides practical mapping, identification, and analytical skills.
Pair With:
Biology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Education—broadens field skills and scientific understanding, supports teaching or environmental work.
Career Pathways:
Environmental technician, natural resource manager, field analyst, science educator, or preparation for grad programs.
Career & Graduate School Ready
With a degree or minor in geology from Rocky, your career possibilities are broad and in-demand. Graduates successfully pursue roles in environmental consulting, energy and mineral exploration, water resources, hazard assessment, and geotechnical analysis. Others teach, conduct research, or move into policy and land management.
Many Rocky alumni go on to top graduate programs in the geosciences or related fields. The program’s strong fieldwork component and modern lab experience make you a strong candidate for both employment and advanced study.
Field Experience and Mentorship
You’ll be learning from world-class trainers, judges, and coaches with decades of experience and connections. Every student completes internships matched to their goals—be it with elite show barns, therapeutic riding programs, business offices, or vet clinics. There’s also the one-of-a-kind colt training program, the IHSA Team, Judging Team, and opportunities to show, teach, and lead. With small class sizes and personalized faculty guidance, you’ll find mentorship and support every step of the way.
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