Combined Major

Geology-Physics Major

Department/Program
  • Required Geology Courses (25 Credits)
    • One introductory course plus lab, chosen from:
      • Geology 110 and 111
      • Geology 120 and 121
      • Geology 125 and 126
    • Geology 227, 270, 310, 358, 405, 420, and 470
  • Required Physics Courses (21-22 Credits)
    • Physics 145, 155, or 347
    • Physics 156, 245, 255, and 267
    • Two courses chosen from Physics 325, 339, 347, 357, and 385
      • Physics 347 may not be used to satisfy multiple requirements.
  • Required Supporting Science Courses (17 Credits)
    • Chemistry 125 and 135
    • Mathematics 125, 126, 225, and 244
  • Senior Requirements
    • Geology 470
    • Senior assessment
      • Comprehensive written exams in both Geology and Physics
      • One-hour oral exam by Physics and Geology faculty
  • Honors
    • Students submit an “Honors in Major Study” application to the department.
    • Students must submit a proposal for their thesis or project within the first six weeks of the two-semester period in which they are eligible.
    • Accumulated at least 87 credits
    • Completed two semesters of residency at Whitman
    • Major GPA of at least 3.500
    • Complete a written thesis or research project prepared exclusively for the satisfaction of this program.
    • Earn a grade of at least A- on the honors thesis or project and the honors thesis course.
    • Pass the senior assessment with distinction.
    • The department will submit the honors applications to the Registrar’s Office of students pursuing honors by the specified deadline.
    • The department will submit the “Senior Assessment/Major Study Certificate” to the Registrar’s Office no later than Reading Day.
    • An acceptable digital copy of the Honors Thesis must be submitted to Penrose Library no later than Reading Day.
Total Credits
61-62