Geology

Clear Standards for Quality

ABET’s geology (and geoscience) accreditation criteria provide clear standards that guide institutions in shaping high-quality, scientifically comprehensive programs. These standards ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to be effective and innovative in addressing societal needs for earth resources and resilience to natural hazards.

Holistic Program Criteria

ABET’s criteria are holistic, requiring coverage of all the fundamental, foundational topics underpinning the geology discipline, developing geospatial and field skills, and depth in one or more applied areas, such as hydrogeology, engineering geology, petroleum, mining, or economic geology. Graduates are expected to complete a culminating experience that integrates knowledge and skills from earlier coursework. The program criteria align closely with the Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG) Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam.

Programs Offered by Qualified Faculty in Appropriate Facilities

Faculty expertise, experience, and professional development are one of the important factors considered in accreditation. Hands-on and field-based learning are expected to serve as important curricular requirements in programs.

Recognition of Practical Skills in Conjunction with Fundamental Knowledge

The broad field of geology allows for programs to retain a unique educational character in alignment with their history, location, and culture, while also ensuring students and employers that the knowledge and skills graduates attain satisfy established criteria.

Recognition as a Leader in Geoscience Education

ABET accreditation positions programs as leaders in geoscience education. It provides external validation that reinforces an institution’s role in advancing geoscience education, particularly at the bachelor’s level.

External Validation and Peer Recognition

ABET accreditation offers a trusted indicator of quality, serving as external validation for peer institutions, industry stakeholders, and prospective students. This recognition builds confidence in the program’s rigor and quality.

Competitive Advantage in Student Recruitment

Programs accredited by ABET gain a competitive edge in attracting students. Accreditation distinguishes programs within the academic landscape, providing a compelling narrative for prospective students comparing their options. The ability to state, “We are ABET-accredited,” serves as a strong point of differentiation.

Global Recognition

ABET accreditation is recognized globally as a mark of quality education. It demonstrates a program’s commitment to meeting established standards and fosters confidence among students, faculty, and industry professionals.

Outcomes-Based Approach

The accreditation process focuses on measurable student outcomes, prioritizing “what is learned” over “what is taught.” This approach ensures programs remain relevant and aligned with evolving industry and academic needs.

Continuous Improvement and Quality Assurance

ABET accreditation emphasizes continuous improvement, requiring institutions to assess and enhance the impact of their teaching on student learning. This process involves peer reviews, maintaining an up-to-date curriculum, ensuring faculty qualifications, and providing consistent institutional support to meet accreditation standards over time.