BS Geological Engineering at University of Nevada, Reno

Programme overview

The Geological Engineering program focuses on geologic hazard mitigation and natural resources characterization. The program applies physics, chemistry, meteorology, hydrology, biology, geology and engineering science to understanding the Earth, recognizing and coping with environmental hazards, exploiting natural resources while preserving the environment, and exploring Earth's context in the solar system.

Faculty: College of Science | Department: Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering | Duration: 125 credits / four years | Study mode: full-time | Location: Reno, NV, United States

What you will study

The bachelor’s degree in geological engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno combines environmental, civil and geotechnical engineering with the geological sciences to address complex societal challenges. You learn to apply principles of engineering, science and mathematics to identify and solve engineering problems; design solutions that consider public health, safety and environmental and economic factors;

Career pathways

With your degree in geological engineering, you will have a choice of jobs in a range of industries. You can choose to work for engineering consulting firms or for civil, petroleum, transportation and/or mining companies around the country and the world. Job opportunities for a geological engineer include:

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University-level freshman admission (not programme-specific): minimum 3.0 weighted academic GPA in core courses; high school coursework of 4 units English, 3 units math (Algebra I or higher), 3 units natural science and 3 units social science; SAT/ACT scores optional. Some majors and colleges set additional direct-entry or progression requirements.

Domestic applicants: USD 9,383 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate base tuition for Nevada residents, 2026-27, based on 30 credits across fall and spring at $312.75 per credit; applies to all undergraduate programmes (university-wide rate band); excludes mandatory student fees ($1,696), differential fees (e Source

First-year entry terms: Spring 2027 and Fall 2027.

First-year applications opened August 1, 2026. Early Action deadline for Fall 2027 is November 15, 2026; final deadline for Fall 2027 is April 7, 2027; final deadline for Spring 2027 is December 15, 2026. Scholarship and financial aid deadline is February 15, 2027. SAT/ACT scores are optional for admission. Domestic first-year applicants pay no application fee; international undergraduate applicants pay $95. Apply through the university admissions portal (admissions.unr.edu) or the Common App.

Apply through the official page: https://www.unr.edu/apply

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