University of Tennessee

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad foundation in the Earth sciences, emphasising the physical, chemical and biological processes that shape the planet. Core topics include mineralogy and petrology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, structural geology, geomorphology, igneous and metamorphic processes, and geochemistry. Students gain practical skills in field mapping, sediment and rock description, geologic interpretation, and use of geospatial tools such as GIS and remote sensing.

• Core modules: introductory and intermediate courses in physical geology, mineralogy, sedimentary geology, structural geology and geologic history.
• Laboratory and practical work: hands-on mineral and thin-section analysis, geochemical lab techniques, and quantitative data analysis.
• Field courses: short and extended field trips focused on regional geology, stratigraphic logging, and field mapping in the Appalachian region and surrounding terrain.
• Quantitative and technical skills: instruction in GIS, remote sensing, geophysical methods, data visualisation and basic programming for data analysis.
• Advanced and elective topics: hydrology and hydrogeology, environmental geology, petroleum and mineral resources, palaeontology, geochronology and climate change science.
• Project and research experience: an undergraduate capstone, independent research project or honours thesis supervised by faculty, often linked to active research groups.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with solid attainment in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes courses in mathematics (algebra and precalculus or equivalent), chemistry and physics; earth science or geology at secondary level is beneficial but not always required.

• Completed high school diploma or equivalent with strong grades in science and maths.
• Recommended subjects: high-level mathematics, chemistry and physics; coursework in Earth/Environmental Science is an advantage.
• For transfer applicants: college-level coursework in introductory geology and mathematics is helpful; submission of official transcripts and course descriptions is required.
• International applicants should meet English language proficiency requirements and provide comparable academic credentials from their home country.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a wide range of careers that apply geological knowledge and technical skills. Typical entry-level roles include geological technician, environmental consultant, field geologist, hydrologic technician and GIS specialist. With further experience or postgraduate study, graduates progress to positions in resource exploration (petroleum and mining), hydrogeology, environmental remediation, geotechnical engineering, hazard assessment and academic or government research.

• Employment with environmental and engineering consultancies, energy and mining companies, and federal or state geological surveys.
• Technical roles supporting infrastructure projects, natural hazard assessment and environmental compliance.
• Opportunities in geospatial data analysis, remote sensing, and applied geophysics.
• Paths into postgraduate study in specialised areas such as volcanology, hydrogeology, geochemistry or paleoclimatology, leading to research or teaching careers.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers direct access to rich Appalachian geology and varied field sites, enabling extensive field training as part of the curriculum. The Earth and Planetary Sciences faculty are active in research across geochemistry, tectonics, sedimentary processes and environmental geology, providing opportunities for undergraduates to join research projects and present findings.

• Strong practical emphasis with well-equipped teaching laboratories and field-based courses that build observational and mapping skills.
• Collaborative links with nearby research institutions, including national laboratories and state geological surveys, which support internships and applied research opportunities.
• Access to modern geospatial and analytical facilities, and a supportive environment for undergraduate research and capstone projects.
• Location in Tennessee provides a range of natural field environments for study, from Appalachian mountain geology to riverine and karst systems.