Major Field of Study (MFS)

442-480 - Mathematics, Computer and Physical Sciences

455-460 - Geology and Related Fields

455 - Geology

The study of science of the earth, its origin, its history, and the physical chemical and dynamic processes that have gone on, and are now going on within it. It also includes examination of the materials involved in these processes such as minerals, rocks, fossils, petroleum and natural gas. Geology also entails both field work and laboratory analysis.

• Example Program Names:

  • Earth Science - Geology
  • Earth Science(s)
  • Geological Science
  • Geology

456 - Geochemistry

The study of the chemical composition of the earth primarily in terms of ore formations, mineral deposits, crystalline compounds, isotopes and geochemical cycles. Laboratory work in this field is aided by the use of the petrographic microscope.

• Example Program Names:

  • Biogeochemistry
  • Chemistry and Geology
  • Geochemistry
  • Geology and Chemistry

457 - Geophysics

The study of physical properties and processes of the earth. Some specific aspects include: seismology and seismic exploration, earth tides, terrestrial heat flow, terrestrial magnetism and electricity, earth rotational dynamics, tectonophysics, gravity and geomorphology.

• Example Program Names:

  • Applied Geophysics
  • Geodesy
  • Geology and Geophysics
  • Geomorphology
  • Geophysical Seismology
  • Geophysics
  • Physics and Geology

458 - Hydrogeology and Hydrology

Study of the hydrologic cycle, groundwater flow, water transport processes, pollution flow in streams and surface runoff. Topics such as the evolution of landforms and sedimentary sequences arising from erosion are also considered.

• Example Program Names:

  • Hydrogeology
  • Hydrology

459 - Gemology

This is the science and study of gemstones. Included in this field is the identification, grading, fashioning, polishing, cutting and engraving of gemstones.

• Example Program Names:

  • Gemology

460 - Geology - Other

Other specialized subfields within geology such as economic geology, paleontology, surficial geology and the geology of the solar system.

• Example Program Names:

  • Astrogeology
  • Economic Geology
  • Exploration and Geology
  • Geology Mining
  • Mineral Exploration
  • Paleontology
  • Surficial Geology