Students who undertake this option obtain practical training in the evaluation of natural hazards in relation to land use and planning. An undergraduate degree in this option provides a theoretical and practical basis for more advanced studies in urban planning, marketing and locational analysis, transportation research and planning, and public administration and education. Geologists examine rocks and minerals in order to formulate and test theories on natural processes affecting the earth and to explore for mineral resources. They may also study fossil remains of animals and plant life and observe the flow of fluids and gases through rocks to determine the ages and rates of change of various parts of the earth's crust, as well as the possibility of oil and gas deposits. They contribute to environmental impact studies by examining the effects of wind,water, earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic action on landforms.
Geologists also determine sources of groundwater and possible contamination effects.
They make measurements of gravity and magnetic fields, seismic waves, temperatures, and natural electric current. Geophysicists study these topics from the standpoint of the physics of solid bodies, gases, and fluids. Some geophysicists are field oriented, some laboratory oriented, some theoretical, and some combine these areas. See the Undergraduate Studies section for a complete listing. See Degree Requirements under College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences in the Undergraduate Studies section of this catalog.