Geology studies the composition and evolution of Earth and of other planetary bodies. The discipline extends into many areas: mineralogy, petrology, palaeontology, sedimentology, environmental geology, economic geology, geochemistry, structural geology, and geophysics.

Thus, geologists study matter and geological processes in all their diversity, from atoms and crystals to mountain ranges and the dynamics of the entire planet.

The scientific methods used
are equally diverse (field studies, instruments to probe the Earth's depths,
microscope examination of minerals and fossils, elemental and isotopic analysis, experimental study of
geochemical systems, and computer simulation of geological processes).

Although many program options are offered, students are encouraged to take the B.Sc. Honours with Specialization in Geology or Geology-Physics, which allows them to meet the accreditation requirements of professional bodies and practise as geologists or geoscientists.

In first year, students increase their knowledge of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and
biology. Later, they complete several geology courses, which consist of lectures, problem-solving assignments, laboratory work and field excursions.

The Department of Earth Sciences, in co-operation with the Department of Physics, also offers a program in geology-physics. The Department is part of the Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre, and its research areas include precambrian studies, tectonics, resource geology, northern studies, environmental geoscience and geochemistry.