Many of us grew up thinking geologists simply study rocks. Although it is true rocks provide some of the fundamental clues to understanding these issues, geologists also study soil, sediments, lakes, groundwater, and the interior of the earth. Spatial analysis using ArcGIS, numerical computer modeling, and geochemical analysis using sophisticated instrumentation are common methods used by different geoscientists.

In the Geology Department, we strive to develop the whole student by emphasizing critical thinking and analytical, quantitative, public speaking and writing skills. Students have the opportunity to work collaboratively with geology faculty on research projects, in addition to learning the key field, lab and research skills of a professional geologist. These skills are transferable to many different fields and help prepare students for a range of career paths. The geology curriculum has been designed to provide students with a solid core, but with sufficient flexibility to allow students with particular interests to pursue a more customized Geology program. At the heart of this program are a number of hands-on learning opportunities, a fundamental and basic component of a St. Thomas geoscience degree. Department faculty emphasize the fact that geology must be learned by practicing skills and as a result offer analytical experiences in all courses that extend from a short afternoon trip to a multi-week field course on field methods and regional geology. Majors will visit many of the geologically significant localities throughout the upper Midwest as part of their program as well as use analytical instrumentation.