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Why study geology?
Study Earth’s history, structure and resources while exploring solutions for a changing planet.
Geology helps us understand Earth’s structure, evolution and resources in our current context. Mount Royal University’s field-based Bachelor of Science — Geology in Calgary combines classroom learning, lab work and hands-on field experience across Alberta’s varied landscapes. You’ll explore rocks, minerals, fossils and tectonic systems while preparing for careers in geoscience, including environmental consulting, geotechnical work and resource exploration. Graduates are also eligible to become a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).
Program highlights
- Study rocks, minerals, fossils and tectonics through hands-on fieldwork across Alberta
- Combine classroom theory with practical experience in labs and diverse field settings
- Work with GIS and geospatial tech to analyze real geological data
- Graduate ready to apply for APEGA professional geoscientist licensing
- Pursue roles like environmental geologist, petroleum geologist or mineral exploration specialist
Career possibilities
What jobs can I get with a geology degree?
Geology graduates explore a variety of paths in geotechnical and environmental geology, energy, mining, mapping and more. Many also choose to continue with graduate studies. Potential pathways include:
Professors explain the material by taking us to the field, by lecturing in a class setting, through hands-on learning in the lab, and in so many other ways.
— MRU alum Emily MacMillan
B.Sc. — Geology, 2019
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in geology?
Build a well-rounded understanding of Earth science through classroom learning, labs and fieldwork. The curriculum highlights communication, critical thinking and practical skills to help prepare you for careers in academia or industry.
Explore full curriculum and coursesYear 1
|Years 2-4
Curriculum snapshot – Year 1
Experiential learning
Get hands-on experience through fieldwork, labs and research that build practical skills.
- Conduct impactful, community-focused research in the honours stream
- Engage in lab work identifying rocks, minerals and fossils using MRU’s extensive collections
- Work with GIS and geospatial technologies to analyze geological data in small, interactive classes
- Broaden your perspective through immersive study abroad and field school experiences
Admission requirements
When you apply to MRU, you’ll need to meet both general admission requirements and any additional criteria specific to your chosen program. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
Select your admission category:
High school
Post-secondary transfer
Mature student
Admission category: High school
High school applicants must submit five Grade 12 courses for admission. These five courses must include the required subjects for the program you’re applying to. These required subjects are part of Group A.
To complete your five courses, additional subjects may be used from Group A, B, or C.
More admissions info for high school applicantsWhat are the requirements for the Bachelor of Science — Geology?
- English Language Arts 30-1 - 60%
- Mathematics 30-1 - 60%
- Chemistry 30 - 60%
Applying from another province or country?
If you're applying from outside Alberta, you'll need to know which of your courses match Alberta Grade 12 courses.
Check out our provincial equivalencies chart if you're from another Canadian province or the international credentials chart if you're applying from outside Canada.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to meet two separate English requirements to be admitted to Mount Royal:
- You’ll need to successfully complete an English course if it’s part of your program’s admission requirements
- Show that you meet Mount Royal’s English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements
Admission deadlines
Fall 2026 intake
Early admission
Oct. 1, 2025 - Feb. 1, 2026
Ongoing admission based on program space and availability
Feb. 2, 2026 - programs closed
What is early admission?
During the early admission period, all applications are treated as though they were received at the exact same time. This means all competitively qualified applicants will be accommodated. At MRU, we actually receive most of our applications and fill many of our programs from applications submitted during early admission. It is an ideal time to apply and helps expedite the process so you hear back earlier too.
Early admission deadlines
Fall Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Feb 1.
Winter Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1.
Costs
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs, scholarships and financial support available.
How much does the Bachelor of Science – Geology cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
To get a better idea of what you might spend, try using our first-year student budget estimator. It gives a detailed breakdown of estimated costs.
You can also visit our tuition and costs page for full details on tuition and fees for a full year.
Does MRU offer scholarships or financial aid?
At Mount Royal, we want you to focus on your education, not worry about how to pay for it. There are many ways to help cover the cost of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal gives out over $5 million each year in scholarships and bursaries! These awards look at things like your grades, financial need and your involvement in school or the community.
Financial aid
There are financial aid options from the provincial and federal governments for both full-time and part-time students. These include student loans, grants and bursaries.
Other resources
You can also explore other ways to pay, like using RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans) or CPP (Canada Pension Plan) benefits.
How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?
To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, you must apply for Early Admission from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
Book an info sessionConnect with the Admissions and Recruitment Office for more one-on-one support.
Contact us
Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRULearn about the additional supports and services we have available specifically for:
International students Indigenous studentsFaculty of Science and Technology
Mount Royal offers two bachelor's degrees in Science and Technology: The Bachelor of Computer Information Systems and the Bachelor of Science with majors in General Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Data Science, Environmental Science and Geology.
Virtual information sessions
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