Why Geosciences? | Penn State Department of Geosciences

Discover your place at Penn State and join the Department of Geosciences. Be part of a diverse network of students aspiring to become scientists who seek to find solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in climate, sustainability, energy and mineral resources, and the environment.

The Department of Geosciences is in a small college within a large research university. That combination means that you can enjoy small class sizes, get to know your faculty, participate in research, and still have all the benefits of a large university. Many students think of the student hub for our college, the Ryan Family Student Center (RFSC) as a home away from home. In between classes, students frequently take breaks in the RFSC. It is a place to study, chat with friends, relax, grab coffee, or talk with advisers, tutors, and staff who want to support you as you find your niche and pursue your educational goals.

Learn from world-class faculty

Dedicated to academic and professional excellence, our faculty members emphasize both fundamental and interdisciplinary study. Despite their high research productivity, our faculty are committed to delivering the very finest undergraduate geoscience education in the country.

Student Life

Life for our undergraduates is engaging. We offer ample opportunities for field experiences, and take great pride in our efforts to develop an active, supportive student community. You can also join one of our many student organizations to find students with passions like yours.

Test your skills outside the classroom

Take advantage of opportunities to study abroad, complete internships at prestigious companies, work side-by-side with researchers in their laboratories, and more.

Learn from accomplished alumni as you prepare for the start of your career

The Graduates of Earth and Mineral Sciences (GEMS) alumni group plays a key role in our students’ experience. Alumni regularly volunteer their time to come back to campus and discuss their life and career experience with students, including volunteering at EMEX and TOTEMS.

Get Support from Dedicated Staff

At the Ryan Family Student Center, you can speak with academic advisers about classes to schedule, a technology tutor to learn new skills, a writing tutor to fine-tune the writing of your papers, and a math tutor to gain a better understanding of challenging math problems.