Department of Geosciences
Gain hands-on experience in real geological settings through Auburn University’s comprehensive geology field camp. Designed for upper-level undergraduates and open to qualified students from other institutions, this immersive course builds practical skills in field mapping, rock and structure analysis, stratigraphy and geologic interpretation
A group of geology students stands together in front of Double Arch at Arches National Park, posing during a field camp trip in a desert landscape.

Program at a Glance

Credit hours: 3 semester hours
Duration: Three weeks
Location: Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico
Dates: May 30 to June 21, 2025 (2025 field camp schedule)
Eligibility: Open to Auburn and external applicants
Student to faculty ratio: Low, with personalized instruction and supervision

Field camp is an opportunity to bring classroom learning to life through intensive fieldwork in classic geological terrains. Students develop key skills in observation, data collection, mapping and interpretation while working alongside faculty geologists in diverse landscapes.

Students wearing safety vests and backpacks hike along a narrow rocky ledge on a steep canyon cliff, examining rock formations during a field geology excursion.

What You Will Learn

Students in field camp will:

  • Interpret rock units, structures and depositional environments in the field

  • Measure and construct stratigraphic sections

  • Produce geologic maps from field data

  • Apply field observations to regional tectonic histories

  • Work safely and effectively in rugged terrain

The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning that builds confidence and competency in geological reasoning and professional practice.

Students sit on large rocks beside a mountain lake, taking notes and observing the surrounding peaks during a field geology study break.

Locations and Field Experiences

The course travels through multiple western states including:

  • The Big Horn Basin (Wyoming)

  • Yellowstone and Grand Teton regions

  • Canyonlands and Arches national parks (Utah)

  • Rio Grande Rift and volcanic terrains in New Mexico

These field sites expose students to a range of geological environments and teach them to apply geological principles in complex, real-world contexts.

Students wearing safety vests and backpacks hike along a narrow rocky ledge on a steep canyon cliff, examining rock formations during a field geology excursion.

Eligibility and Application

Field camp is open to geology majors and students in related geoscience programs. Students from other universities who meet prerequisites and demonstrate readiness for intensive fieldwork are encouraged to apply.

Prerequisites typically include introductory geology courses and foundational training in earth materials and structural geology.

Contact the geology field camp coordinator for application details, prerequisites and equipment lists.

a group of geosciences students stands on a mountain and holds an auburn flag

Costs and Support

In addition to standard tuition for three credit hours, students are responsible for field camp fees that cover travel, accommodations and field logistics.

Internal scholarships and grants may be available through the Department of Geosciences to help offset costs. Contact the department for current funding opportunities and application deadlines.

Questions?
Contact Dr. Raphaël Gottardi