Geological Sciences, B.S.
McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
Get a rock-solid foundation for a career exploring the environment. You will study the inner workings of the Earth all the way to climate change and build technical skills for working in the lab or in the field.
Whether you want to study earthquakes, volcanoes, groundwater, climate change or the coastal oceans, a degree in geological sciences can help you reach your goals. You can also fulfill pre-med, pre-health, or pre-law requirements, or pursue graduate study in geology.
Program Highlights
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Field Experience
Spend a summer with hands-on learning in the field collecting and analyzing structures in a capstone course.
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Leading Labs
Join cutting-edge research using plasma-source mass spectrometers at the Center for Elemental Mass Spectrometry.
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Engaged Faculty
Learn from our large and diverse faculty with broad scientific expertise in a variety of specializations.
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Work That Matters
Gain meaningful employment within energy and mineral resources or environmental consulting related to water resources.
Building Skills
Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.
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Laboratory Research
Conducting experiments and analyzing data to gain new knowledge and insights in a scientific field
Scientific Writing
Communicating scientific research and findings in a clear, accurate and compelling manner
Data Analysis
Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
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Critical Thinking
Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments
Analytical Reasoning
Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions
Problem Solving
Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies
Using your degree
Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.
Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.
Potential Careers
- Carbon Sequestration Scientist
- Lobbyist
- Researcher
- Instructor
- Mine Geologist
- Coastal Zone Management
Job Titles of Alumni
- Geologist
- Staff Geologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Field Engineer
Average Alumni Salary
Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $66,276
Workplace Settings
- Education
- Environmental Science
- Government
- Private Sector
Employers of Alumni
- S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control
- University of South Carolina
- Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
- Schlumberger
My experience at USC has been nothing short of amazing. I've been able to cultivate experiences such as travel opportunities, research internships and fellowships all by committing to being a good academic. I think my biggest accomplishment is the network and sense of community I've established.
