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Environmental Geology

Environmental Geology

What is Environmental Geology?

Environmental geologists apply geological, geochemical, and geophysical techniques to develop sustainable relationships between the earth and its inhabitants. They work to assess the potential environmental impacts of human activities, prevent future pollution, perform environmental monitoring, protect our natural resources, and assist in the cleanup of contaminated sediments and waters. Additionally, environmental geologists work with engineers to support construction projects and prevent damage from natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides. 

Do my interests fit?

Environmental geology students typically have interests in:

  • Outdoors
  • Problem solving
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Working in the field/lab

High school preparation should include science and math courses, especially Earth science, chemistry and physics.

Environmental Geology FAQ

Graduates from OU's School of Geosciences in the Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy are among the most highly recruited students in the energy industry, and 98 percent of graduating seniors are placed in full-time positions or choose to continue onto graduate school. With some of the highest starting salaries in the nation, we prepare students for success in their professional careers by instilling knowledge, skills, confidence, pride, principled leadership, and the ability to contribute to the wise stewardship of the earth and its resources. Curriculum is taught by exceptional faculty with the finest equipment and highly focused on providing hands-on learning through labs and field trips.

Environmental geology courses include:

  • Introduction to Mineral Sciences
  • Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
  • Sedimentary Petrology and Sedimentology
  • Introductory Field Geology
  • Structural Geology
  • Invertebrate Paleontology
  • Geowriting
  • Depositional Systems & Stratigraphy
  • Field Geology - Capstone
  • Environmental geologist
  • Geologist
  • Environmental engineer
  • Petroleum industry
  • Drilling companies
  • Consulting firms
  • Energy companies
  • Engineering geologist

Environmental geology students have the opportunity to study abroad through a variety of programs:

  • Geologists in Colombia
  • Geophysicists in Brazil
  • Petroleum Engineers in Bolivia
  • Petroleum Engineers in Romania
  • Petroleum Engineers in Spain

Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree. 


The University of Oklahoma Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy School of GeoSciences

School of Geosciences
Phone: (405) 325-3255
Email: rfay@ou.edu
Website: ou.edu/geosciences