Appalachian State University
Geology (BS) - Paleontology
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
Got credits?
Learn about transferring credits to App State
Unearth a bright future by exploring the prehistoric past.
The movie “Jurassic Park” might have made paleontologists cool, but you can make them essential for modern-day Earth resource management by earning your Bachelor of Science (BS) in Geology - Paleontology degree at App State.
This degree program prepares you to understand diverse topics such as evolution and plate tectonics, sedimentation and sea level change, water resources and groundwater contamination, and much more.
App State Geology graduates have the field skills, core geologic knowledge and credentials to obtain a Professional Geologist license (PG) — an essential certification for many jobs in the field of geology, especially those in the environmental and Earth resources industries.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, paleontologists have an average annual salary of nearly $90,000.
Before selecting your intended Geological and Environmental Sciences major, use this online table to help you decide if a degree in geology, environmental science or another program is the right major for you.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Elevate Your Education
Courses
Minors
A minor is optional. Many Paleontology students pursue a minor in Anthropology.
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Geologist
- Environmental Lawyer
- Geologist
- Geophysicist
- Geo-Technical Engineer
- Hydrologist
- Laboratory Technician
- Materials Analyst
- Meteorologist
- Microscopist
- Mining Engineer
- Oceanographer
- Paleontologist
- Petroleum Engineer
- Petroleum Geologist
- Pollution Control Specialist
- Soil Scientist
- Structural Geologist
- Water Quality Control Technician
Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
State-of-the-art Facilities
Work in state-of-the-art research facilities outfitted with modern equipment. Learn more
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the Geological and Environmental Science Club. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.