Undergraduate Degree Programs

The Department of Geography and Geology at EKU offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Earth Science Teaching, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Geography.

The B.S. in Geology is directed toward students pursuing a profession in geology. Students completing the B.S. degree program will learn the fundamental principles of geologic processes, including the identification of rocks and minerals, the physics and chemistry of mineral and rock formation and their importance in deciphering the history of the Earth. Students will become proficient in math, chemistry, and physics through an extensive series of supporting courses, which will enhance the understanding of geologic processes. Through applied geology courses and field experience, students will learn to use geologic concepts to understand environmental processes and develop the ability to evaluate future impacts of humans on the Earth.

The B.A. in Geography is supported by studies in specialty areas which include Global Studies, Geotechniques, Natural Resources, and Community and Regional Planning. Geography is a wide-ranging and integrating academic discipline that focuses on spatial patters and relationships found on the Earth’s surface. Spanning the social and natural sciences, Geography is a field that offers a variety of specializations, many of which are included in the major offered at Eastern Kentucky University.

The B.S. in Earth Science/Teaching prepares students for careers as secondary school teachers of earth and space science. Earth science is an interdisciplinary pursuit that studies phenomena affecting the formation, history, and current functioning of Earth, its oceans, and its atmosphere. The curriculum includes course work in the four areas of earth science: geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. In addition, students build a framework for scientific understanding through supporting coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. A required teaching minor prepares students for teacher certification in a second area.