• SamWebSamWeb
  • My SamMy Sam
  • ExchangeE-mail
  • SHSUOnline | Blackboard

Fast Links

Department of Geography and Geology

BA in Geography (Human)|BS in Geography (Human)|BA in Geography (Environmental|BS in Geography (Environmental)|BS in Geography (Geo-spatial)|BA in Social Science Composite|BS in Social Science Composite|BS in Geology|BS in Geology (Geoscience)|Course Descriptions

Chair: Brian Cooper    (936) 294-1566    

Faculty: Don Albert, Chris Baldwin, Brian Cooper, Marcus Gillespie, Gang Gong, John Patrick Harris, Joe Hill, Mark Leipnik, Faljuni Mukherjee, Velvet Nelson, Dennis Netoff, John Strait, Jim Tiller, and C. Allen Williams (Emeritus)

Website: www.shsu.edu/~gel_geo

The Department of Geography and Geology is an excellent blend of two disciplines that have a common thread. Both programs are concerned with the physical environment, with resources – including energy resources – and with ways that humans interact with and modify the natural environment. Students may major or minor in either program.

Mission

The primary mission of the Department of Geography and Geology is to provide students of the two complementary programs a comprehensive understanding of the range and depth of these scientific disciplines which encompass, respectively, the human and physical domains of geography, and the physical and historical domains of geology. This understanding is intended to enable our students to achieve their full potential as skilled professionals and well-qualified technical employees in a diverse range of companies and governmental organizations, and to become effective teachers and community leaders. Our programs enable students to become informed users of a range of technologies and prudent stewards of our natural resources. This understanding of the world will promote successful careers, active life-long learning, and an ability and desire to contribute positively to society.

Geography Program

Coordinator: John Strait     (936) 294-4077    

Faculty: Don Albert, Gang Gong, Marcus Gillespie, Mark Leipnik ,Faljuni Mukherjee, Velvet Nelson, Dennis Netoff, John Strait, Jim Tiller, C. Allen Williams (Emeritus)

Website: www.shsu.edu/~gel_geo/

Geography is the study of the world from a spatial perspective and entails the comprehensive study of the earth and its people. Contrary to popular belief, it is NOT about memorizing place-names and coloring maps. On the contrary, geography is an all-encompassing discipline that focuses foremost on fully understanding the Earth and all of its human and natural complexities – not merely where objects are, but how they have changed and come to be. This includes an understanding of both the physical environment and the cultural world of politics, economics, population, religion, and other human phenomena. A major thrust within the discipline includes the use of geospatial technologies as a means to facilitate geographic inquiry. This entails various methodologies that pertain to the use of spatial analysis, such as computer cartography, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and global positioning systems. Because of the breadth of its subject matter, geography integrates information from a wide variety of other disciplines and examines that information from a spatial perspective. For individuals that are curious about the world, there are few disciplines that will satisfy that curiosity as much as Geography. In the age of global markets, global transportation systems and global telecommunications, we are increasingly faced with the reality that our welfare is highly interdependent with the rest of the world. A geographic education represents an excellent way to understand how to deal with environmental, social and economic issues associated with this reality.

Academic Programs

The Geography program incorporates a three-track curriculum and is designed to fit the particular academic needs of our students and better prepare them for life beyond SHSU, particularly in terms of graduate study or employment opportunities.  Student majors may choose to focus their program within one of three tracks, each providing a broad geographical background yet emphasizing different foci of study.  The human geography track is designed for students primarily interested in the broad geographical study of human or cultural phenomena.  The environmental geography track is designed for students interested in orienting their program of study around the spatial interactions between human society and the physical environment.  The geo-spatial information sciences track is designed for students more interested in developing skills in the application of a variety of geo-spatial technologies. 

Highlights

Located on the third floor of the Lee Drain Building, the department maintains both a Geographic Information System (GIS) lab and a combination GIS and remote sensing lab. These labs contain state-of-the-art computers, software and scanners. We also have a van for fieldtrips, a Zodiac watercraft used for field research, a coring device capable of taking up to 6m core samples, high-quality GPS receivers, a large-scale flume to demonstrate sedimentation processes, and a Ground Penetrating Radar System. In order to enhance learning, all of our rooms are outfitted with video-projection systems, and our lecture rooms have sound systems and dedicated computers with Internet access that are used by the instructors for teaching purposes. Many of our students obtain internships and work with faculty members on research projects.

Career Opportunities

Because of the breadth of geography, there are a wide variety of career opportunities for geography graduates. These opportunities include careers in the following:

  • urban planning
  • computer mapping and geospatial technologies
  • environmental companies and state environmental agencies
  • state transportation departments
  • city, county, state, and federal government
  • education
  • historical preservation
  • marketing agencies
  • energy companies
  • emergency management
  • tourism
  • military

Geography’s focus on spatial relationships, in conjunction with new advances in technology, have led to the development of new geographical tools—principally Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS)—that are now used by many geographers in a wide variety of fields. Because these technologies can be applied within virtually any field (government, business, military, etc.) it is one of the fastest growing job fields and the demand for people with experience using them exceeds the supply. Aside from offering a track with our program that emphasizes these technologies, we also offer students and an Interdisciplinary Minor in GSS that emphasizes GIS, remote sensing and computer cartography. The combination of geography major and a GSS minor is highly marketable. With their broad background, geography graduates have an ability to see connections where others do not, and this enables geographers to work in many different fields. Geography literally offers a world of opportunities.

Suggested Minors

  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Foreign Language
  • GSS (Geo-spatial Science)
  • Geology, Biology, Environmental Science
  • History
  • International Business
  • Journalism
  • Marketing
  • Military Science
  • Political Science
  • Social Science Composite
  • Sociology

Student Organizations

  • Geographers of Sam Houston (GOSH) - GOSH is intended to enhance appreciation for geography through club-sponsored field trips, guest lectures, and other activities, and to promote camaraderie among geography students.
  • Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU) - GTU is the National Geography Honor Society and was established to promote geographic awareness and the pursuit of geographic knowledge. To be eligible for membership in this honor society, students must have at least 12 hours of geography coursework, a minimum GPA of 3.25 in their geography coursework, and an overall GPA of at least 3.0.

Internships

Educational and research opportunities using GIS are available through a variety of internship opportunities that will increase students’ skills and employment opportunities.

Richardson Endowment Awards

  • C. ALLEN WILLIAMS AWARD FOR GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS: $500-$700 one semester.
    Geography majors or minors, senior status.
  • CODY BARRON AWARD FOR GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS: $500-$700 one semester.
    Geography majors or minors, senior status.
  • GERALD L. HOLDER AWARD FOR GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS: $500 -- $700 one semester.
    Geography majors or minors, senior status, 3.0 GPA Geography overall.
  • JAMES ELLISON KIRKLEY AWARD: Two awards (amounts vary) to majors in history, political science, geography, or sociology.
    Recipients are selected on basis of high academic achievement.
  • JOHN H. BOUNDS AWARD FOR GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS: $500-$700 for one semester.
    Geography majors or minors, senior status.
  • THE ELTON M. SCOTT AWARD FOR GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS: $500 -- $700 one semester. Geography majors or minors, senior status. 3.0 GPA Geography overall.


Request information from: Christopher T. Baldwin, Chair, Department of Geography and Geology, Box 2148, Huntsville, TX 77341-2148. (936) 294-1233

Program Specific Requirements

Students must meet the academic standards established by the university.

 

Curriculum

Required Courses for Geography Major

Required Courses for BA or BS in Social Science Composite (Geography Emphasis)

All Social Science Composite majors must take the following courses: GEO 131/111 <GEOG 1301/1101>, 265 <GEOG 2355>, 266<GEOG 2356>, 330 <GEOG 3350>, 331 <GEOG 3351>, 362 <GEOG 3362>, 369 <GEOG 3359>. and 1 technical/applied course from GEO 363 <GEOG 3363> , 364 <GEOG 3364>, 433 <GEOG 4333>, 444 <GEOG 4464>, or 448 <GEOG 4468>. In addition to these requirements, students must take the courses shown below for the respective degree.

Bachelors of Arts, Social Science Composite (Geography Emphasis):
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, 471 <4358>, and 3 hours of GEO <GEOG> Advanced)                          9 hrs.
Bachelors of Sciences, Social Sciences Composite (Geography Emphasis):
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, 442 <4432>, 471 <4358>, and 3 hours of GEO (Advanced)
13 hrs.

Bachelor of Arts
Major in Geography, Human Geography

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Freshman

Component Area IV

 

 

           (Visual & Performing Arts)

3

Senior

          (Literature/Philosophy)

3

Sophomore

          (Cultural Studies)

3

Junior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Freshman

Foreign Language 141, 142

8

Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore

Foreign Language 263, 2642

6

Junior

Major Core
GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101> or
GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105>

4

Freshman
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, or
GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>

6

Sophomore
GEO 330 <GEOG 3350>, GEO 331 <GEOG 3351>,
GEO 332 <GEOG 3352>, GEO 436 <GEOG 4356> or
GEO 437 <GEOG 4357>

9

Sophomore/Junior
GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>,
GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>,
GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464> or
GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

6-8

Junior

Major

Advanced Geography Electives

8

Senior

Minor (required)

18

 

Total Hours:                                                                        120-123

Notes:
1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.
2Foreign Language 263 & 264 satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement.

 

Bachelor of Science
Major in Geography, Human Geography


3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Freshman

Component Area IV

 

 

           (Visual & Performing Arts)

3

Senior

           (Literature/Philosophy)

3

Sophomore

           (Cultural Studies)

3

Sophomore

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements
HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman
CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Freshman
MTH <MATH> or PHL 262 <PHIL 2303> or PHL 362 <PHIL 3362>

3

Sophomore
POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore
GEL 133 <GEOL 1303>/GEL 113 <GEOL 1103>
and
GEL 134 <GEOL 1304>/GEL 114 <GEOL 1104>

8

 Sophomore/Junior

Major Core
GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101>
or
GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105>

4

Freshman
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, or
GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>

6

Sophomore
GEO 330 <GEOG 3350>, GEO 331 <GEOG 3351>,
GEO 332 <GEOG 3352>, GEO 436 <GEOG 4356> or
GEO 437 <GEOG 4357>

9

Sophomore/Junior
GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>,
GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>,
GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464> or
GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

6-8

Junior

Major

Geography Electives

6

Senior

Advanced Geography Electives

6

Senior

Minor (required)

18

 

Total Hours:                                                                          120-123

Notes:
 1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.
2GEO 265 <GEOG 2355> or 266 <GEOG 2356> satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement.

 

Bachelor of Arts
Major in Geography, Environmental Geography

 

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence
Core Curriculum
Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman
Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman
Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Freshman
Component Area IV (Visual & Performing Arts)

3

Senior
Component Area IV Literature/Philosophy)

3

Sophomore
Component Area IV (Cultural Studies)

3

Junior
Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior
Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman
Degree Specific Requirements
HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman
CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Freshman
Foreign Language 141 , 142

8

Sophomore
POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore
Foreign Language 263 <2642>

6

Junior
Major Core
GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101>
GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105>3

8

Freshman
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, or
GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>

3

Sophomore
GEL 360 <GEOL 3326>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>, and
GEO 442 <GEOG 4432>

10

Sophomore/Junior
GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>,
GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>,
GEO 444 <GEOG 4464> or GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

6-8

Junior
Major
Advanced Geography Electives

6-8

Senior
Minor (required)

18

 
Total Hours:                                                                         120-122
1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.
2Foreign Language 263 & 264 satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement.

 

 


Bachelor of Science
Major in Geography, Environmental Geography

 

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Freshman

Component Area IV (Visual & Performing Arts)

3

Senior

Component Area IV (Literature/Philosophy)

3

Sophomore

Component Area IV (Cultural Studies)

3

Sophomore or Junior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Freshman

MTH <MATH> or PHL 262 <PHIL 2303> or PHL 362 <PHIL 3362>

3

Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore
GEL 133 <GEOL 1303>/GEL 113 <GEOL 1103>
and
GEL 134 <GEOL 1304>/GEL 114 <GEOL 1104>

8

Sophomore
Major Core
GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101>
GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105>

8

Freshman

GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, or
GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>2

6

Sophomore, Junior

GEL 360 <GEOG 3360>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>, and

GEO 442 <GEOG 4432>

10

Sophomore/Junior

GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>,

GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>,

GEO 444 <GEOG 4464> or GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

6-8

Junior

Major

Advanced Geography Electives

9-12

Senior

Minor (required)

18

 

Total Hours:                                                                           120-124

Notes:
 1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.
2GEO 265 <GEOG 2355> or 266 <GEOG 2356> satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement.


Bachelor of Science
Major in Geography, Geo-spatial Information Sciences

 

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Freshman, Junior

Component Area IV (Visual & Performing Arts)

3

Senior

Component Area IV (Literature/Philosophy)

3

Sophomore

Component Area IV (Cultural Studies)

3

Freshman or Junior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Freshman

MTH <MATH> or PHL 262 <PHIL 2303> or PHL 362 <PHIL 3362>

3

Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore

GEL 133 <GEOL 1303>/GEL 113 <GEOL 1103>
and GEL 134 <GEOL 1304>/GEL 114 <GEOL 1104>

8

Sophomore

Major Core

GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101>
or GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105>

4

Freshman

GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, or

GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>

6

Sophomore, Junior

GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>, GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>,

GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464>

13

Sophomore/Junior

GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333> or

GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

3-4

Junior

Major

Geography Electives

3

Junior

Advanced Geography Electives

9

Senior

Minor (required)

18

 

Total Hours:                                                                           120-122

Notes:
1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <HIST 1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.
2GEO 265 <GEOG 2355> or 266 <GEOG 2356> satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement.
3GEO 131/111 <GEOG 1301/1101> or GEL 132/112 <GEOL 1305/1105> satisfies the requirement for Component Area III and the degree specific requirement.

 


Bachelor of Arts
Major in Social Science Composite (Geography Emphasis)

 

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)1

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Freshman

Component Area IV

 

 

            (Visual & Performing Arts)

3

Junior

            (Literature/Philosophy)

3

Sophomore

            (Cultural Studies)

3

Junior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Freshman

POL 378 <POLS 3378>, PHL 366 <PHIL 3366>, HIS 398 <HIST 3398>

9

Senior

HIS 369 <HIST 3369>, HIS 379 <HIST 3379>, ECO 234 <ECON 2301>, SOC 131 <SOCI 1301>1

12

Junior

COM 384 <COMS 3384> (or COM 161 <COMS 1361> if transfer credit)

3

Sophomore

HIS 265 <HIST 2311>, HIS 266 <HIST 2312>

6

Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore

Foreign Language 263, 2642

6

Sophomore

Major Core
GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101>
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>

7

Freshman

GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>

6

Freshman

GEO 330 <GEOG 3350>, GEO 461 <GEOG 4331>,
GEO 369 <GEOG 3359>, GEO 471 <GEOG 4358>

12

Junior, Senior
GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>,
GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>,
GEOG 435 <GEOG 4365>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464> or GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

6

Senior

Major

Advanced Geography Electives

6

Senior

Minor (required)

18

 

Total Hours:                                                                                     122

Notes: 1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <HIST 1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.
Foreign Language 263, 264 satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement.



Bachelor of Science
Major in Social Science Composite (Geography Emphasis)

 

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)1

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)

8

Junior

Component Area IV (Humanities/Visual/Performing Arts)

9

Sophomore, Junior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

15

Freshman, Sophomore

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Freshman

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330> or GBA 180 <BUAD 1305>

3

Sophomore

GEL 133 <GEOL 1303>/GEL 113 <GEOL 1103>
and GEL 134 <GEOL 1304>/GEL 114 <GEOL 1104>

8

Freshman, Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>, 200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

6

Sophomore

HIS 398 <HIST 3398>, POL 378 <POLS 3378>,
SOC 321 <SOCI XXXX>

9

Senior

HIS 265 <HIST 2311>, HIS 266 <HIST 2312>2

6

Sophomore
COM 384 <COMS 3384> (or COM 161 <COMS 1361>
if transfer credit)

3

Junior
MTH <MATH> or PHL 262 <PHIL 2303> or PHL 362 <PHIL 3362>

3

Freshman

ECO 234 <ECON 2301>1

3

Freshman

HIS 369 <HIST 3369>, HIS 379 <HIST 3379>

6

Sophomore

Major Core
GEO 131 <GEOG 1301> and GEO 111 <GEOG 1101>,
GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>

7

Freshman

GEO 265 <GEOG 2355>, GEO 266 <GEOG 2356>,
GEO 330 <GEOG 3350>

9

Sophomore

GEO 331 <GEOG 3351>, GEO 369 <GEOG 3359>,
GEO 471 <GEOG 4358>

9

Junior

GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>,
GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>,
GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464> or
GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>

6

Senior

GEO 442 <GEOG 4432>

4

Senior

Minor (required)

18

 

Total Hours:                                                                              120

Notes:
1HIS 163 <HIST 1301> & 164 <HIST 1302> and POL 261 <POLS 2301> & POL <POLS> (200-level) satisfies the requirement for Component Area V and the degree specific requirement.

HIS 265, 266 satisfies the requirement for Component Area IV and the degree specific requirement


Teacher Certification

Students seeking a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree with a major in Social Sciences Composite (Geography Emphasis) and teacher certification at the secondary level (grades 8-12) should use their elective hours and an additional 9 hours to satisfy the required certification requirements. Students seeking a Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree with a major in Social Sciences Composite (Geography Emphasis) and teacher certification at the secondary level (grades 8-12) should use their 13 elective hours and an additional 11 hours to satisfy the required certification requirements. The required education courses are listed below and with teacher certification, the BA degree total is 137 hours and the BS degree total is 139 hours. Those students not seeking certification should use their electives to fulfill the University requirement for advanced elective hours—preferably in their major or minor field of study.

SED 374 <CISE 3374>, SED 383 <CISE 3383>, SED 464 <CISE 4364>, SED 494 <CISE 4394>. RDG 492 <READ 4320>, SED 480 <CISE 4380>, SED 496 < CISE 4396>, SED 497 <CISE 4397> (24 hours)

For teacher certification, no grade below C in social science courses is accepted.

Minor in Geography

(1 of the following courses) GEO 131/111 <GEOG 1301/1101> or GEL 132/112 <GEOL 1305/1105>

(1 of the following courses) GEO 161 <GEOG 1321>, or GEO 265 <GEOG 2355> or GEO 266<GEOG 2356>

(1 of the following technique courses) GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>, GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464>

9 credit-hours of geography elective (6 credit-hours must include advanced courses � 300 <3000>/400 <4000> level)

Minor in Geo-Spatial Science

(4 of the following courses) GEO 363 <GEOG 3363>, GEO 364 <GEOG 3364>, GEO 435 <GEOG 4365>, GEO 444 <GEOG 4464>

(2 of the following courses) GEO 362 <GEOG 3362>, GEO 433 <GEOG 4333>, GEO 448 <GEOG 4468>, GEO 475 <GEOG 4375>

 

 

Geology Program

Coordinator: Brian J. Cooper     (936) 294-1566  

Faculty: Chris Baldwin, Brian Cooper, John Patrick Harris, Joe Hill, Mark Leipnik, Dennis Netoff

Website: www.shsu.edu/~gel_geo/

Geology is the ultimate integrated science because all of the principles and methods of the other sciences, as well as geologic principles and methods, are applied to an understanding of the Earth. Geologists study rocks, of course, but they study them from the context of providing information that may eventually be used to forecast earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other geologic hazards. The information obtained may also be applied to help geologists locate various natural resources. Therefore, geology serves to enhance human existence by attempting to reduce risk and by providing the materials necessary for the expansion of civilization.

Academic Programs

The Geology Degree is designed for the person seeking a position in industry or planning to attend graduate school. The Geoscience Plan is designed for the person with a general interest in geology. Each plan is designed to provide an education in the fundamentals of geology. The required geology courses will give the student an understanding of the Earth and will provide an opportunity to observe, investigate, analyze, and interpret geological materials, processes, and structures.

Highlights

Located on the third floor of the Lee Drain Building, the department places considerable emphasis on the integration of lab-based analytical science with similarly rigorous analysis conducted by means of field work. In support, the department maintains a range of field and laboratory equipment including a Mackereth coring system, a vibracorer, a research flume, a portable XRF, plus a variety of GPS and GIS-linked surveying equipment. Many of our students obtain internships and work with faculty members on research projects.

Career Opportunities

Geology majors generally pursue careers in three areas:

  • the environmental industry
  • the petroleum industry
  • teaching

Geology students are provided with the knowledge and skills required to pursue an applied profession, a career in education, and/or continued education at the graduate level.

Suggested Minors

  • Computer Sciences
  • Geography
  • Geographic Information Systems
  • Mathematics
  • Science

Student Organizations

Sam Houston Association of Geology Students (SHAGS) - SHAGS is a very active student organization that sponsors field trips to sites in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Alumni, professors, and other professional geologists are invited to speak at SHAGS meetings. Geology majors benefit greatly from the sense of camaraderie gained during the field trips, meetings, and other activities.

Internships

Educational and research opportunities are available through a variety of internship opportunities in the fields of GIS, hydrocarbons, and environmental geology that will increase students’ skills and employment opportunities.

Awards and Scholarships

  • CANNAN GEOLOGICAL SCHOLARSHIPS: $600 per year, junior or senior status, Geology majors, minimum GPA of 3.2 in Geology and overall 3.0, faculty recommendations required.
  • HOUSTON GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD: Awards and scholarships funded by the Houston Geological Society given to just seven universities in Texas.
  • HOUSTON GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY SCHOLARSHIP:  Award recipients are determined by a faculty committee during the Spring semester.
  • SHAGS Award: $500 per year, awarded to two students, junior or senior status, Geology majors, minimum GPA of 3.0, faculty recommendations required.

Program Specific Requirements

Geology program specific requirements include 3 hours of CS; 8 hours in each of CHM <CHEM> and PHY <PHYS>; 4 hours of BIO <BIOL>, plus 7-8 hours of MTH <MATH>.

Curriculum

Required Courses for Geology Major
Bachelor of Science, Geology: GEL 132/112 <GEOL 1305/1105> or 133/113 <1303/1111>, plus 134/114 <1304/1104>, 334 <3304>, 344 <3404>, 345 <3405>, 440 <4400>, 442 <4402>, 460 <4360>, 461 <4361>, and three Advanced GEL <GEOL> Electives.

Bachelor of Science, Geoscience: GEL 132/112 <GEOL 1305/1105> or 133/113<1303/1111>, plus 134/114<1304/1104>, 334 <3304>, 344 <3404>, 345 <3405>, 440 <4400>, 442 <4402>, and five Advanced GEL<GEOL> Electives.

Bachelor of Science
Major in Geology

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)1

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)2

8

Freshman, Sophomore

Component Area IV (Humanities/Visual/Performing Arts)

 

 

        Humanities

3

Sophomore

        Visual and Performing Arts

3

Junior

        Cultural Studies

3

Senior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

 

 

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>

6

Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>

3

Junior

200-level POL <2000-level POLS>1

3

Senior

Social/Behavioral Sciences elective

3

Sophomore

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Sophomore

Degree Specific Requirements

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330>

3

Freshman
CHM 138 <CHEM 1311> and CHM 118 <CHEM 1111>,
CHM 139 <CHEM 1312> and CHM 119 <CHEM 1112>2

8

Freshman

BIO 162 <BIOL 1313> and BIO 112 <BIOL 1113> or
BIO 161 <BIOL 1311> and BIO 111 <BIOL 1111> or
BIO 137 <BIOL 1301> and BIO 117 <BIOL 1101>2

4

Sophomore

PHY 138 <PHYS 1301> <and PHY 118 <PHYS 1101>
PHY 139 <PHYS 1302> and PHY 119 <PHYS 1102>2

8

Junior

MTH 142 <MATH 1420> plus MTH 143 <MATH 1430> or
MTH 379 <MATH 3379>1

7-8

Freshman

Major Core
GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105> or
 GEL 133 <GEOL 1303> and GEL 113 <GEOL 1103> plus
GEL 134 <GEOL 1304> and GEL 114 <GEOL 1104>

8

Freshman

GEL 334 <GEOL 3304>, GEL 344 <GEOL 3404>,
GEL 345 <GEOL 3405>

11

Sophomore

GEL 440 <GEOL 4400>, GEL 442 <GEOL 4402>

8

Junior

GEL 460 <GEOL 4360>, GEL 461 <GEOL 4361>

6

Senior

Major

Advanced Geology elective

3-4

Junior

2 Advanced Geology electives

6-8

Senior

Minor (if required)

Courses in accepted minor

6

Junior

Courses in accepted minor

12

Senior

Total Hours:                                                                          121-125

Notes:
1MTH <MATH> courses satisfy the requirement for Component Area II and the degree specific requirement. 2CHM <CHEM>, BIO <BIOL>, PHY <PHYS> satisfy the requirement for Component Area III and the degree specific requirement.

 

Bachelor of Science
Major in Geology—Geoscience

3 Digit to 4 Digit Crosswalk

SHSU Course Number

Hours

Recommended Sequence

Core Curriculum

Component Area I (Communication)

6

Freshman

Component Area II (Mathematics)1

3

Freshman

Component Area III (Natural Sciences)2

8

Freshman, Sophomore

Component Area IV (Humanities/Visual/Performing Arts)

 

 

        Humanities

3

Sophomore

        Visual and Performing Arts

3

Junior

        Cultural Studies

3

Senior

Component Area V (Social/Behavioral Sciences)

 

 

HIS 163 <HIST 1301>, HIS 164 <HIST 1302>1

6

Sophomore

POL 261 <POLS 2301>

3

Junior

200-level POL <2000-level POLS>

3

Senior

Social and Behavioral Sciences

3

Sophomore

Component Area VI (Institutionally Designated Option)

1

Freshman

Degree Specific Requirements

CTE 133 <CSTE 1330>

3

Freshman

CHM 138 <CHEM 1311> and CHM 118 <CHEM 1111>,
CHM 139 <CHEM 1312> and CHM 119 <CHEM 1112>2

8

Freshman

MTH 163 <MATH 1316>, MTH 170 <MATH 1314>,
MTH 142 <MATH 1420> or more advanced1

6-7

Freshman

BIO 161/111 <BIOL 1311/1111>or
BIO 162/112 <BIOL 1313/1113> or
BIO 137/117 <BIOL 1301/1101>2

4

Sophomore

PHY 138 <PHYS 1301> and PHY 118 <PHYS 1101>
PHY 139 <PHYS 1302> and PHY 119 <PHYS 1102>2

8

Junior

Major Core

GEL 132 <GEOL 1305> and GEL 112 <GEOL 1105> or
GEL 133 <GEOL 1303> and GEL 113 <GEOL 1103> plus
GEL 134 <GEOL 1304> and GEL 114 <GEOL 1104>

8

Freshman

GEL 334 <GEOL 3304>, GEL 344 <GEOL 3404>,
GEL 345 <GEOL 3405>

12

Sophomore

GEL 440 <GEOL 4400>, GEL 442 <GEOL 4402>

8

Junior

Major

Advanced Geology elective

3-4

Junior

4 Advanced Geology electives

12-14

Senior

Minor (if required)

Courses accepted in minor

6

Junior

Courses accepted in minor

12

Senior

Total Hours:                                                                          121-125

Notes:
1MTH <MATH> courses satisfy the requirement for Component Area II and the degree specific requirement.
2CHM <CHEM>, BIO <BIOL>, PHY <PHYS> satisfy the requirement for Component III and the degree specific requirement.

 

A minor in geography, science, or mathematics is strongly recommended.

Minor in Geology

GEL 132/112<GEOL 1305/GEOL 1105> or 133/113 <GEOL 1303/1103>, plus 134/114 <GEOL 1304/1104> and 12 hours advanced geology.

 


Sam Houston State Logo

Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, Texas 77341 | (936) 294-1111 | (866)BEARKAT | Contact Web Editor
© Copyright Sam Houston State University | All rights reserved. | A Member of The Texas State University System