Studying geology in the USA: What's it like?

I'm curious about studying geology in the USA and potentially making a career out of it. What should I look for in a good geology program? Are there any universities that stand out in this field?

When evaluating a strong geology program, look for several important aspects:

1. Accreditation: Be sure that the university is accredited, as this indicates that it meets certain academic standards. Most geology programs in the U.S. are accredited by specialized bodies, such as the Geological Society of America.

2. Curriculum: Look at the depth of the geology curriculum. It should offer a range of courses that cover different aspects of geology, from physical and historical geology to more specialized areas such as structural geology, volcanology, and sedimentology.

3. Faculty: Who are the faculty members? Do they have advanced degrees, are they recognized in their field, do they have published work? A strong faculty usually translates to a strong program.

4. Research Opportunities: Are there opportunities for undergraduate research in the department? Such experience can be extremely valuable when applying for graduate programs or jobs after graduation.

5. Fieldwork: Since geology is a field science, an excellent geology program will offer significant fieldwork opportunities. This might include trips to various landscapes, where students will learn to observe and interpret the rocks and landform processes.

6. Internship and Career Resources: Does the department support finding internships in the field? Do they provide assistance with job placement upon graduation?

As for standout schools for geology, a few come to mind:

- Stanford University: Stanford's Department of Geological Sciences has top-notch faculty and a broad range of research opportunities.

- California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Known for its rigorous science and engineering programs, Caltech offers a dynamic Earth and Space Science degree.

- University of Michigan: The Earth and Environmental Science major students get access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and numerous opportunities to perform fieldwork all over the world.

- Harvard University: Through the Earth and Planetary Sciences concentration, students can tailor their coursework based on their specific interests in geology.

Remember, though, that the best geology program for you will depend on your specific interests and career goals as well as the overall fit of the school.