US: Regional Field Geology

Overview 

Regional Field Geology is a course designed to introduce geological sciences students to field methods, making observations and interpretations in field settings, and developing a synthetic understanding of the geologic history of a region.

Good to know

During the field course, instruction will occur primarily in outdoor settings at geologic outcrops in a variety of terrains and environmental conditions. Students should be capable of hiking up to several miles each day at a wide variety of elevations even during some inclement weather.  More information about course conditions will be provided by the Field School Director upon registration.

Program is only open to students who have successfully completed GEOL 2550 and at least one GEOL 3000+ course.

Living Arrangements 

Students will stay at the West Virginia Association for Cave Studies facilities. 

Transportation

The group with travel to the site in West Virginia together from Athens and to various geological sites. Willing students may be asked to serve as drivers during the program.

Program Dates 

Spring Break: March 8, 2024 - March 17, 2024

Academics  

Students will earn a total of 3 credit hours. 

• GEOL 4610 – Regional Field Geology, 3 credit hours

Cost  

The program fee for this program includes: roundtrip transportation, lodging, meals, park/preserve admission fees,, instructional materials, and some field supplies.

In addition to the program fee, students should plan for 3 credit hours of tuition*, an administrative fee, and out-of-pocket costs. Below is the student budget worksheet for this program, which outlines these costs.  

Student Budget Worksheet - Spring Break 2024 *Coming soon

Items that are not related to the program (i.e. additional entertainment, souvenirs, extra travel, contingency funds) are not included in the cost estimates provided and should be budgeted for separately.  

*Note: 

• If you are nominated to this program, you will be required to pay a deposit to confirm your participation. The deposit is a down payment on the total costs to be billed by OHIO and is determined by the total cost of the program. 
• For programs completed over winter-break and spring break, the credit-hours associated with the program are part of the spring semester. Students taking between 12 to 20 Athens campus hours, including those associated with the program, will not incur additional tuition costs for the spring semester. Students taking less than 12 or more than 20 Athens campus credits for the spring term will see their tuition charge adjusted accordingly.  

Funding Opportunities

More information on financial aid and scholarships can be found on our funding pages.

Eligibility

Students who have successfully completed GEOL 2550 and at least one GEOL 3000+ course are eligible to participate on this experience.

Students who will be on probation at any point during the program for a conduct offense that took place less than a calendar year from the program start date may not study abroad/away.  Read the entire conduct policy . 

This program is not open to Non-Ohio Students. 

Participants must have a at least a high school diploma or the equivalent (e.g. GED) by the start date of the program to be considered for eligibility.  Students enrolled in College Credit Plus (CC+) are not eligible for study away programs.

Application Requirements

Applicants will be required to submit: 

• A copy of their DARs
• A personal statement, with the prompt: Please submit a 1 – 2 page typed essay that describes your interest in this program, your prior relevant coursework and/or field experiences, and what you hope to gain personally and/or professionally by participating in this experience.

Resources 

• Health and Safety
• Accessibility Requests and Accommodations