Our Programs

Undergraduate Majors

Students working in the field
Underground cave

Notes on Major Programs

The geology, B.S. program: enables students to concentrate in straightforward geology.

The earth sciences, B.S. program: allows students to choose a more individualized program under three concentrations: geology, environmental earth sciences, and earth science education.

Minors & Certificates

Planetarium projector
Japanese garden
Geothermal pool
drone flying

Notes on Minors & Certificates

The astronomy and geology minor programs: are designed for students majoring in other departments who would like to develop an additional focus of study. The minor can be customized to enable students to develop a specialty in a wide range of fields.

The Environmental Science and Society certificate: will enhance the preparation of students for careers in the environmental field. Students learn to use problem-oriented, interdisciplinary approaches to recognize, comprehend and resolve complex environmental issues.

Graduate Programs & Pathways

Many of our graduates enroll in the Great Lakes Environmental graduate programs. They are offered in conjunction with the Great Lakes Center.

Student from the Great Lakes Center doing research
Graduate students working in Great Lakes Center lab
Great Lakes vessel

Honors Program

The earth sciences B.S. with honors program is for students who have demonstrated high standards of achievement and the ability to work independently. Accepted students work closely with a faculty member to complete an honors project, which may be published in a professional journal or presented at a scientific conference.

Entry to the honors program is by application, see the department office (SAMC 160) for an application. 

Minimum requirements for acceptance are:

  • Completion of 12 credits in the earth sciences, with a minimum of six credits from Buffalo State
  • 3.25 overall GPA
  • 3.50 major GPA
  • Acceptance of a faculty member to serve as a mentor.

The designation "Departmental Honors Program" will be awarded if the following requirements are met prior to graduation:

  • Completion of all departmental requirements for either geology, B.A. or earth sciences, B.S.;
  • Maintenance of a 3.25 overall GPA
  • Maintenance of a 3.50 major GPA
  • Acceptance of the Honors Thesis - GES 498 (6 credits)