Geology Field Camp

Western offers two geology field camp options. Both the four credit, four-week, and six credit, six-week, experiences are open to Western students and qualified students from other universities pursuing a degree in geology or geology-related studies. Located in the south-central Colorado Rockies, Gunnison is the ideal location for students to study a variety of geological terranes.

Throughout the Field Geology (GEOL 450) course, students will be introduced to field methods, gain experience with the geologic mapping of sedimentary, metamorphic, volcanic, and plutonic terranes, conduct analyses of field data, and write reports that summarize their findings. The six-credit option is offered in two parts: GEOL 450 and GEOL 452. Advanced Field Geology (GEOL 452) will travel to various locations throughout the western U.S. to study geology at a regional scale.

Western’s Geology field courses run from mid-May to mid-June and are offered as two courses: GEOL 450 and GEOL 452.

Qualified students from other universities are welcome to enroll in Western’s geology field camp. Applicants must have academic preparation in physical and historical geology and should have completed courses in structural geology and stratigraphy.

To begin the admission process, you must complete and submit the field camp application form. Accepted students will receive instructions for finalizing enrollment in the course in mid-April. Submission of this application and acceptance does not guarantee you a spot in the course.

To receive credit for field camp, you must apply and be admitted to Western Colorado University as a non-degree-seeking student. Please check with your home institution to be sure they will accept the transfer credits. Your transcript for the course will be available upon completion through getmytranscript.com and can be sent directly to your home institution’s registrar.

Enrollment is limited. Spots in the course will be filled in order of receipt of the non-refundable registration fee. Students must be approved for admission and submit their registration fee on or before the application deadline (see application form). The balance of field camp expenses must be paid before 4 p.m. on the first day of class (see application form).

If you have questions about applying or eligibility, please contact Dr. Brad Burton.

Contact Dr. Burton

Western’s field camp includes a mix of projects that are based out of Gunnison and group camping projects. Accepted students will receive a detailed schedule. Housing for non-Western field camp attendees can be arranged in residence halls and in off-campus housing (see below).

Geologic compasses will be provided. Students are required to supply their own personal, field and camping gear. Western students may rent camping gear through Wilderness Pursuits. Fees cover travel and camping costs associated with the field camp. Personal vehicles cannot be used in the field for insurance reasons.