Hey all! I'm thinking about majoring in geology, and the University of West Virginia caught my eye. What can you guys tell me about their geology program? Are there any notable professors or research opportunities?
The University of West Virginia (WVU) has a solid geology program within its Department of Geology and Geography. The program offers a B.S. in Geology, a B.A. in Environmental Geoscience, and various graduate degrees. The department has a strong focus on applied geology, and you'll find courses covering a wide range of topics, such as sedimentology, structural geology, hydrogeology, and geophysics.
One of the strengths of WVU's geology program is their faculty, who are actively involved in research across numerous fields. Some of the notable professors include Dr. Tim Carr, an expert in energy resources and carbon sequestration, Dr. Amy Weislogel, who specializes in sedimentology and basin analysis, and Dr. Dorsey Wanless, who focuses on geomorphology and glaciology.
Research opportunities for undergraduate students are available, and you might get the chance to work with faculty members or graduate students on their ongoing research projects. Some of the current research topics include coal and shale gas resources, groundwater and water resource management, geologic hazards, and Appalachian tectonics, among others.
Moreover, WVU's location in the Appalachian region provides geology students with unique field experiences. The department offers several field-based courses, such as Geological Field Mapping and Field Methods in Hydrology. Additionally, the university hosts an annual six-week summer field camp in Montana, which offers invaluable hands-on training in mapping and field studies. This could be an excellent opportunity to gain practical skills and build your resume.
Overall, if you're interested in applied geology and looking for a program with dedicated professors and diverse research opportunities, the University of West Virginia is a good choice. Before deciding, it would be helpful to contact the department or current students to further discuss the program and gain insight into the student experience.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.