Vancouver resides in a landscape forged by active geological processes. Studying geology in EOAS is an opportunity to live and work in a beautiful geological laboratory literally at your doorstep. An outstanding cohort of field geology courses take full advantage of the setting.
Over 20 of our professors have research interests spanning nearly all geologic subfields. We have a particularly strong focus on mineral deposit geology and geochemistry. Mineral Deposit Research Unit (MDRU) maintains strong ties with industry partners based here in the mining capital of North America; some 1,200 mineral exploration companies are based in BC. The Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research (PCIGR) hosts the premier equipment and personnel for geologic analytical work.
Our department leads the charge of reshaping undergraduate education at UBC through the Carl Weiman Science Education Initiative. Many geology courses have been restructured with progressive, student-focused pedagogical practices that ensure you get the most out of your education.
Read and fill in the Course Template document (below) for the Winter session in which you FIRST enter Honours. Book an appointment to see your Honours advisor to solve problems or discuss your questions about the Honours Specialization. [In any email correspondence with an advisor, please put your name and student number in the subject line. Thank you.]
Please see your Honours advisor with questions regarding the Combined Honours Specialization
About the Discipline
Geological sciences are studies of the solid Earth including its composition, history, and processes. Among other things, geologists study:
- the origin and evolution of Earth and other terrestrial planets
- the chemical and physical properties of minerals, rocks, and fluids
- the history of life as preserved in the fossil record
- the formation and distribution of mineral deposits and petroleum reservoirs
- the nature of geologic hazards including earthquakes and volcanoes
- the quality, distribution and movement of groundwater
The uncertain future of energy, mineral and water resources, environmental stewardship, the effects climate change, and hazard assessment present challenges to society and geoscientists.
Employment
Many geologists are employed by industries related to mineral, petroleum, and water resources. Some geologists with extensive industry or research experience are employed as geological consultants or work with consulting firms. Others dedicate to their careers to research in academia or geoscience education at the university or secondary levels. Many geoscientists perform a combination of field and laboratory as part of their careers.
For more geology career planning resources, visit:
Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia
BC Ministry of Energy and Mines
Geological Survey of Canada
Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia
Society of Economic Geologists
