In 2012, the Department of Geology and Astronomy, in conjunction with Moscow State University, is offering students the chance to explore and study on the most preserved geologic regions of all Europe; the Khibiny Mountains and Lovozero Tundra, the Baltic Shield.

ESS 480/580 is a special topics course offered by the Department of Geology and Astronomy, in Spring 2012, which shall include a three week summer field trip to the Khibiny Mountains region of the Russian Federation from June 12 through July 15, 2012. The field study will be conducted under the supervision of West Chester faculty and graduate students, during which students will learn to apply geology field methods to study geomorphology and morphotectonics. The itinerary is as follows: arrive in Moscow on June 12; spend 1-2 days sightseeing in Moscow; depart for Khibiny, June 15 via a three day train ride; arrive on June 18; spend 6 days doing group field treks; and then spend 5 days doing individual mapping.

The requirements for the trip are a pre-trip meeting, visa registration and a conference on the logistics of the trip held prior to the commencement of the trip. In addition, a valid U.S. passport is required to travel abroad. The cost of the trip is approximately $3,000. This shall cover airfare, visa registration fees, Consulate fees, train tickets from Moscow to Apatity, lodging at the Moscow State University Field Station in Kirovsk, and all meals.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for undergraduates. For more information, please contact Dr. Daria Nikitina at dnikitina@wcupa.edu.

In 2013, the Department of Geology and Astronomy hopes to be offering students the chance to explore and study our nation's historical and beautiful parks up close and personal. Check back here for upcoming information regarding this exciting opportunity.

Geoscientists study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. They study the Earth’s geologic past and present by using sophisticated instruments to analyze the composition of earth, rock, and water. Because of this, many help to search for natural resources such as groundwater, metals, and petroleum, in addition to developing techniques and technologies in preparation for responses to natural hazards. Furthermore, according to the American Geological Institute, geoscientists are the best equipped "to predict the behavior of Earth's systems" and "advise policymakers on decisions that balance society's need with keeping the world healthy". Others work to preserve/clean up the environment.

As a result of their multifaceted skill set, geoscientists are capable of finding jobs in a whole host of industries. Both public and private sector opportunities await those with a geoscience degree. For instance, many find work at Fortune 500 companies, non-profit organizations, and a number of cabinet departments, such as the Department of Agriculture, Interior, Energy, Transportation and Commerce, as well as NASA. Although employment growth will vary by industry, overall employment of geoscientists, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. Graduates with a master’s degree can expect excellent job opportunities.