Integrating two disciplines

Geological engineering integrates two disciplines: geology and engineering. Geologists study the Earth-its origins, composition and evolution. Engineers apply scientific principles to practical ends, such as the design and building of structures. Geological engineers help find the best ways to solve Earth-related technical problems while at the same time protecting the environment.

An interdisciplinary program

The Geological Engineering Program (GLE) is interdisciplinary, utilizing faculty in the College of Engineering, as well as in geology and geophysics (College of Letters and Science). Specific areas of study include the following:

• designing structures in soil and rock for foundations, dams, tunnels and other caverns;
• mitigating geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides and volcanos; and
• protecting the environment through remediation of polluted sites, proper waste disposal, erosion control and groundwater quality maintenance.

Geological engineering is a BS, MS and PhD program. The B.S. degree program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering & Technology.

Geological engineering program expands

The Geological Engineering Program is experiencing considerable growth. The program started in 1988 with just two students. This year, the program has 65 students with more than 20 percent women. The program now has 10 part-time and three full-time faculty members with the addition of Asst. Facilities are also improving for the GLE program. The rock mechanics lab is being modernized as part of the Materials Science and Engineering Building renovation.

Excellent prospects for graduates

With strong skills in geoenvironmental engineering, groundwater technology, rock mechanics and geo-technical engineering, graduates can expect employment with consulting firms, the petroleum production industry, federal and state laboratories and agencies, and others. With few exceptions, the graduates will spend part of their working time outdoors enjoying nature. GLE students can opt for a second major in geology, since the credits in geology required for the GLE degree often satisfy the BS degree in geology. Employers have told the College of Engineering that they get a bargain by hiring GLE graduates since one graduate can fill two positions: that of a rock/soils/groundwater engineer and that of a geologist.