Geosciences

Department Chair: Gary Gianniny
Email: gianniny_g@fortlewis.edu

Professors: Gary Gianniny, David Gonzales, Kimberly Hannula, and Ray Kenny
Associate Professor: William (Scott) White
Assistant Professor: Jonathan Harvey
Lecturer: Lauren Heerschap

The Department of Geosciences offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, with either the Geology or Environmental Geology options. The Geology option focuses on earth materials, earth processes, and earth history while the Environmental Geology option focuses on natural resource management, geohydrology, and environmental topics. Both options are intended to prepare students for graduate school and careers as professional geologists. All majors are required to complete a mandatory set of core courses that includes a capstone research project and an applied field geology course. In addition to our mandatory course offerings, we also offer a wide variety of upper division elective courses to further prepare students for careers.

The department also offers GIS and geography courses, as well as a GIS Certificate program. Geography classes are recommended for students wishing to enhance their understanding of such topics as world cultures, physical landscapes, globalization, weather and climate, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The GIS Certificate complements majors in biology, geology, environmental studies, public health, engineering, anthropology, business administration, and many others. For more information on the GIS Certificate, click here or contact the program’s coordinator, Dr. Scott White.

A Geology Minor is available for students majoring in other disciplines that are interested in increasing their knowledge of earth science topics. No more than one course from the major department can count toward any minor.

The study of geosciences at Fort Lewis College is strengthened and enhanced by our proximity to the remarkable natural geological laboratory in the Southern Rocky Mountains and adjacent areas of the Southwest. Regional field trips and outdoor laboratory activities expose students to a wide array of geologic processes and provide unique field-based learning opportunities. The numerous outcrops, mine, and oil field workings provide excellent, real-world experiences for students. Laboratory and field equipment are available for research.

Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in geology and environmental geology are employed by geo-engineering and consulting firms, state and federal governmental agencies, and the extractive industries (mining, energy, and industrial minerals).

Major in Geology and Options

Geology Major - Environmental Geology Option

Geology Major - Geology Option

Minor in Geology

Geology Minor