College of Science
College of Science
Because of El Paso’s unique geographic setting where the Franklin Mountains meet the Chihuahuan Desert, geology was UTEP's original department in 1914. With strong traditions, Geological Sciences at UTEP has evolved into a nationally recognized research program with projects funded by the National Science Foundation, the United States Geological Survey, NASA, the Department of Energy, and major oil and gas corporations.
Fast-track option allows students to earn master's degree credit while completing a bachelor's
Marianne Karplus, Ph.D., has worked on several geothermal research projects since arriving at UTEP in 2015. One of her main areas of interest and expertise is studying geysers such as Old Faithful using geophysics and seismology methods.
Geological sciences graduates are in demand and highly paid. The oil industry employs them to explore and produce oil and natural gas. Others work in the environmental industry to clean up hazardous chemical spills, protect wetlands and groundwater, and design waste facilities. The U.S. government hires geologists to determine where a landslide might occur or where roads should be built, or to work on Mars exploration through NASA.
