Geology Program at SUNY Plattsburgh - About Geology

About Geology

What is Geology?

Geology is the study of the planet earth: its history, composition, and processes that shape the earth. Geology is a very broad science with strong links to chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics and engineering.

Many of the important questions being studied by geologists now include:

• Quantifying available natural resources such as petroleum, ores and water
• History of earth's climate and climate change
• Studying the geology of other planets
• Using remote sensing to better understand the earth's surface
• Understanding processes that affect humans such as:
  • landslides
  • flood control 
  • contaminant flow in groundwater

Students majoring in geology have many career opportunities. These opportunities include many federal and state agencies, education (K-12 and college), consulting industry, and non-profit agencies.There are even opportunities in law and medical research.

What Can You Do With a Degree In Geology?

Graduates of our degree programs in Geology have successful careers with local, state and federal agencies, and numerous consulting firms including:

• The U.S. Geological Survey
• The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• Environmental Consulting firms such as Malcolm-Pirnie

Become an Earth Science Teacher

Teach Earth Science at the high school level via one of several options in association with our Departments of Educational Studies and Services.... read more

Graduate School

Many of our alumni have entered graduate school to receive advanced training as:

• Hydrogeologists
• Environmental Geologists
• Earth Science Educators and College Professors
• Engineering Geologists
• Petroleum Geologists

Questions, Comments, Suggestions?

If you would like more information about geology at SUNY Plattsburgh, please contact

Dr. Robert Fuller, Director
Office: Ward Hall 239, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Phone: (518) 564-2028
Toll-Free Phone: (877) 554-1041
Fax: (518) 564-5267
E-mail: cees@plattsburgh.edu