Important Program Update
The Geology major is transitioning to a Geology concentration within the Earth and Environmental Science major. Current students declared in the Geology major may complete their degree as planned. Students wishing to enter the standalone Geology major must start the program by January 11, 2027. After that date, all new students will be admitted to the Geology concentration within the Earth and Environmental Science major.
If you have an inquisitive passion for nature and the outdoors, a desire to understand the natural wonders of Earth and/or a concern for responsible stewardship of global natural resources, then pursuing the geology program at USI might be right for you.
At USI, you will have the opportunity to work with dedicated faculty members on hands-on research, to present your ideas at conferences, and to travel on excursions to unique geological locales, such as to the Grand Canyon, Hawaii, Yellowstone National Park, or the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. You’ll have the opportunity to earn departmental scholarships and find internships with local companies. Geology is unique in that it combines aspects of biology, earth science, chemistry, and physics, providing a background that is useful for almost any career path. You will be provided with analytical, critical thinking and communication skills that are desired by employers.
To apply to the University of Southern Indiana (USI) for undergraduate enrollment:
Once USI has processed your application, transcript(s) and scores (if needed), a decision will be made by Undergraduate Admissions and you will receive a notification.
Upon acceptance to USI, you'll receive detailed information about next steps, including orientation, registration and housing.
Forbes magazine listed geology as number 7 on its list of the 15 most valuable college majors. Geology stresses problem-solving skills that are in demand and transferable to a wide range of professions that include business, engineering, law, consulting and education. Such skills include lateral thinking, teamwork, technical writing, verbal communication, observation, data collection, data analysis and interpretation.
As we move in to a future of growing human population and need for natural resources, geologists will play an important role in resource management and remediation of the many environmental problems that we will face. USI geology alums are working in a variety of professions across the career spectrum including, but not limited to, academia, business, consulting, education, engineering, government, mineral exploration and the petroleum industry. USI graduates also have great success in graduate school.
*Income data provided by CareerOneStop.
Opportunities and salaries vary by region and experience.
The University of Southern Indiana is committed to making college accessible to those wishing to further their education by providing numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to assist students in managing tuition expenses.
