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New bachelor's degree in petroleum geology announced
Boyd Science Center

Muskingum University has announced a new major in petroleum geology, adding to current majors in geology, environmental science, conservation science and earth science. Muskingum also offers minors in earth science and geology.

“Graduates of this new program will be needed to fill jobs within the growing oil and gas industry or in governmental agencies,” said Dr. Stephen R.Van Horn, associate professor of geology at Muskingum. Graduates might also choose to pursue a graduate degree, Dr. Van Horn explained.

The new major builds upon the strengths of Muskingum’s current geology department. Courses in Introduction to Well LoggingSedimentary PetrologyPetroleum Geology and Subsurface Geology have been added to the existing curriculum to create this new academic offering.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that employment for geoscientists is projected to grow 16 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. “The need for energy, environmental protection and responsible land and resource management is projected to spur demand for geoscientists in the future,” according to the Bureau’s Occupational Outlook Handbook.

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