The goal of a field geology course is to improve observational and problem solving skills in actual geological settings. Most field geology courses are offered only during the summer, and they emphasize actual geologic mapping. In the process of mapping you must often integrate structural, stratigraphic, lithologic, and geomorphic information to complete and interpret the map correctly. Hence a good field geology course demands competence in several areas of geology. Although field geology is not required for a geology major at Calvin College, it is extremely important to a well-rounded geologic education and strongly preferred by graduate schools and employers. Therefore, we strongly recommend that every geology major take a field geology course.

Most students take field geology between their junior and senior years. You should have completed our structural geology course. Geology 307, covering petrology, is also desirable. Field mapping courses vary in length from four to eight weeks and usually give six semester hours of credit. Costs vary. There are some scholarships available from the National Association of Geology Teachers (NAGT).

Because these courses fill up quickly you should request application materials from the courses you are interested in during the fall semester preceding the summer of the course. Apply to several courses before January to increase your chances of acceptance. Field geology courses require long days and long nights of work but it's also an enjoyable time as you make new friends and realize that you have the ability to solve real geologic problems.

NEW!!Calvin field camp: Montana Field Methods - For information contact Dr. Gerry Van Kooten

Field Camps offered by other colleges: http://geology.com/field-camp.shtml.