Nevada Geosciences leads the way in tackling global challenges

At the University of Nevada, Reno, our geoscientists specialize in studies related to plate tectonics, natural hazards and green energy.

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Students and researchers in an arid outdoor environment working with drones and electronic equipment.

Be a part of a diverse geoscience network.

Nevada Geosciences identifier Nevada Geosciences includes three integrated units that each have their own specialties: the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering, the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology and the Nevada Seismological Laboratory. The combined faculty and staff from the three units have world-class skill sets and knowledge in a variety of Earth science subdisciplines; to learn more about our geoscientists, visit the People page on the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering website. Not only does Nevada Geosciences house a variety of cutting-edge research facilities, the group also strives to cultivate an inclusive environment through its Geosciences for All Committee and Commitment to Diversity. Combined, these features make Nevada Geosciences an ideal place to embark on an educational journey through classes and research experiences in the Basin and Range and beyond.

There are also multiple research centers housed within the program, including the Ralph J. Roberts Center for Research in Economic Geology (CREG), the Nevada Geodetic Laboratory, the Great Basin Center for Geothermal Energy, the Center for Transformative Environmental Monitoring Program (CTEMPS) and Great Basin Science Sample and Records Library.

Attend our first annual Nevada Geosciences Research Symposium

On Friday, April 11, 2025, undergraduate students, graduate students, researchers and postdocs will present their research to our broader Nevada Geosciences community, as well as members of other University departments, industry, the public and other government agencies. The event will consist of both oral and poster presentations.

Learn more about the symposium

Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering

The Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering (DGSE) is the academic portion of Nevada Geosciences, offering a variety of classes that supports multiple undergraduate majors and minors, an Accelerated BS/MS program and several graduate degree options.

Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology

The Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology (NBMG) is a research and public service unit of the University of Nevada, Reno and is the state geological survey. NBMG’s mission focuses on analyzing and assessing the geologic framework, natural resources and geologic hazards of the state.

Nevada Seismological Laboratory

The Nevada Seismological Laboratory (NSL) is a research and public service unit of the University of Nevada, Reno. The Laboratory has a primary responsibility to monitor earthquake activity throughout Nevada and in bordering regions.

Bringing leaders in the geosciences to our campus

A joint effort between the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering, Nevada Seismological Laboratory and Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, our geoscience seminars are open to members of the local and University geoscience community who are eager to learn about the latest topics in geological science and engineering research.

Geosciences seminar schedule

4 majors

1 minor

7 graduate programs

B.S.
M.S.
Minor
Ph.D.

Geological Engineering (B.S., M.S.)
Combine your interests in engineering, the outdoors and cutting-edge technology as a geological engineering major. You will apply this knowledge to solve real-world problems in natural disaster mitigation, infrastructure development, and sustainable energy and resource extraction critical for a green future.
- Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering, Course Catalog
- Master of Science in Geological Engineering, Course Catalog
Geological Sciences (BS/MS Accelerated Program, Minor)
Interested in learning about the major earth systems and the geologic processes that create and shape them? Develop an in-depth understanding of earth surface processes, earth materials and geochemistry, structure and tectonics, rock forming processes and paleoecology. Skills in interpreting geological data are gained through work in the classroom, laboratory, computer simulations, and in the field. If you’re majoring in Geology, Geological Engineering, Hydrology or Geophysics, you have the opportunity to participate in the accelerated BS/MS program, which allows you to obtain an M.S. degree in Geology, Geological Engineering or Geophysics in a shorter timeframe.
- Bachelor of Science/Master of Science Accelerated Program in Geological Sciences, Course Catalog
- Minor in Geological Sciences, Course Catalog
Geology (B.S., M.S., Ph.D.)
There’s a whole world of discovery in the ground beneath your feet. From the shifting of tectonic plates to the eruption of volcanoes, geology majors learn about the Earth and all the natural processes that have shaped it over time.
Geophysics (B.S., M.S., Ph.D.)
Explore earth and sky and all the space in between as a geophysics major. Learn to apply physics, mathematics, geology, computer science and engineering concepts to explore the physical characteristics of Earth and other planets; from seismic activity to magnetic fields and more.
Hydrogeology (B.S., M.S., Ph.D.)
Water is essential to life. As a hydrogeology major, you will develop a strong quantitative foundation that will allow you to become an expert on water movement and interactions across Earth’s surface and in groundwater reservoirs. You will be able to apply this knowledge to monitor, manage and protect water resources, evaluate water-related industrial and utility projects, and monitor the impact of climate change on Earth’s water supply.