Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

This programme combines core geological science courses with laboratory work, field training and opportunities for independent research. Students build skills in observation, quantitative analysis and problem solving while studying Earth materials, processes and history.

Core topics and typical modules

• Introduction to Earth Science and Physical Geology
• Mineralogy and Crystallography
• Petrology (igneous and metamorphic)
• Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• Structural Geology and Tectonics
• Geochemistry and Isotope Geology
• Paleontology and Earth History
• Geophysics and Subsurface Imaging
• Hydrogeology and Environmental Geoscience
• GIS, Remote Sensing and Spatial Data Analysis
• Field Methods and Mapping (multiple field trips and practical mapping exercises)
• Laboratory methods including mineral/rock analysis and geochemical techniques
• Senior capstone, independent research project or honours thesis supervised by faculty

Students typically follow a core sequence in the first two years, move into advanced electives and specialised seminars in the third and fourth years, and undertake substantial fieldwork and a research or capstone project in the senior year. Interdisciplinary options allow coursework with engineering, environmental science, chemistry and planetary science.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a strong secondary school programme with solid preparation in mathematics and the natural sciences. Typical preparation includes courses in algebra/trigonometry, calculus (or precalculus), chemistry and physics. Admissions evaluate academic record, teacher recommendations and a personal statement; relevant extracurricular activities such as field clubs, science projects or lab experience strengthen an application.

International applicants should present an equivalent secondary qualification and meet English language proficiency requirements. Where standardised test scores are submitted, they will be considered alongside the rest of the application, but specific test policies can vary; check the university’s admissions pages for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers across industry, government and academia. Typical paths include:

• Environmental and geotechnical consulting (contaminated land, remediation, construction site assessment)
• Hydrogeology and water resources management
• Natural resource exploration and mining
• Energy sector roles (including conventional and renewable energy companies)
• Geospatial analysis, GIS and remote sensing
• Academic and government research (USGS, state geological surveys, university research groups)
• Science policy, education and museum work
• Further study at master’s or doctoral level in geology, geophysics, environmental science or related fields

Undergraduates with quantitative and computing experience are also attractive to employers in data science and environmental modelling.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve offers close contact with research-active faculty in the Department of Earth, Environmental & Planetary Sciences and access to well‑equipped teaching and research laboratories. The university’s location provides easy access to diverse field sites in the Great Lakes region and Appalachian Basin for practical mapping and field-based learning.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with engineering, chemistry and environmental programmes, opportunities for paid and credit-bearing internships with regional industry and government agencies, and strong support for undergraduate research projects. Small class sizes in advanced courses and active faculty mentoring help prepare graduates for professional work or further study.