Shape the future through the science of the Earth

Two geology students examining rock types in lab

At Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, our Geosciences Department offers more than just a degree—it’s a transformative opportunity to explore the Earth’s dynamic systems. Whether you’re fascinated by the forces shaping landscapes, eager to tackle environmental challenges, or driven to uncover ancient geological mysteries, our program provides the tools and expertise to turn your curiosity into action.

Located at the meeting point of the Rockies and the desert Southwest, FLC gives you unparalleled access to one of the most diverse geologic regions in North America. 

  • Geology Major
  • Geology Minor
Geology Major

FLC’s Geology Major offers tailored pathways that align with your passions, including geology, climate science, GIS, and geological engineering. You’ll develop a deep understanding of Earth’s systems and how to apply that knowledge to solve real-world challenges, from mapping landscapes to addressing resource management and environmental sustainability.

What you’ll gain

  • Fieldwork focus: Immerse yourself in regional field trips to iconic sites like the San Juan Mountains, studying processes like hydrology, erosion, and tectonics.
  • Specialized skills: Master GIS, drone imaging, digital mapping, and other cutting-edge tools used in geoscience industries.
  • Research experience: Conduct hypothesis-driven research and present your findings at national and regional conferences, gaining professional exposure.
  • Capstone projects: Culminate your studies with a senior project and Field Geology II, where you’ll develop experimental designs, analyze original data, and draw conclusions that could shape the field.

Program highlights

  • Core courses: Introduction to Physical Geology, Environmental Hydrology, Geologic Mapping.
  • Geology Field Camp: A four-week summer adventure in Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and beyond, applying classroom learning to real-world geological studies.
  • Experiential epportunities: Partner with faculty on original research or engage in hands-on projects in the Four Corners region—a geologist’s dream.

Check out the Geosciences Student Roadmap
Find out Geology Major credit requirements in the FLC catalog

Geology Minor

The Geosciences Minor is designed for students in archaeology, environmental science, biology, or any field that intersects with Earth’s processes. This minor equips you with practical skills and unique insights, giving you a competitive edge in understanding and addressing modern environmental challenges.

What you’ll learn

  • Core courses: Study Earth Materials and Introduction to GIS, building a foundation in analyzing geological and environmental systems.
  • Practical experience: Engage in hands-on fieldwork, applying theory to real-world scenarios in the natural laboratories of the Southwest.
  • Interdisciplinary applications: Use your geoscience skills to complement your major, from environmental research to resource management.

Program highlights

  • Gain valuable skills in GIS and Earth systems analysis.
  • Enhance your understanding of sustainability, environmental change, and resource management.
  • Broaden your career opportunities or strengthen your graduate school applications with a foundation in geosciences.

Find out Geology minor credit requirements on the FLC Catalog

Sophia Hawthorne

"I am going into my third year here at Fort Lewis and am so happy to be a part of the geology program. I am originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and had never considered geology before moving here. As soon as I met the faculty and learned about how exciting geology is, I changed my major, and the rest is history. I have been able to do field research, go on field trips, and meet many amazing people who are excited to learn. So many opportunities have come to me from this department, and I'm excited to see where they take me. "

Sophia Hawthorne
Class of 2026

Your career, your impact

A man wears a safety vest on a rocky, desert road.
Geology alumnus Luke Nesmith conducting field work in the desert. Photo courtesy of Luke Nesmith.

With an FLC Geology degree, you’ll be ready to excel in high-demand fields like mining, petroleum, hydrology, environmental geology, and beyond. Whether you envision yourself mapping volcanoes, analyzing groundwater, or consulting on climate issues, your path starts here. Imagine yourself as a:

  • Mining geologist
  • Environmental geologist
  • Volcanologist
  • Groundwater hydrologist
  • Paleontologist