Undergraduate Thesis Option
The LSU Department of Geology and Geophysics offers faculty-mentored research experiences for course credit that emphasize meaningful, independent inquiry and preparation for advanced training.
In GEOL 3999, students conduct individual research on problems in the geological sciences, including writing, public presentation, and defending a research thesis before a committee of three faculty members. Three hours of GEOL 3909 and three hours of GEOL 3999 may be substituted for one 3-hr GEOL 4000-level elective course.
The Application and Proposed Syllabus forms are provided as fillable PDFs. If you experience difficulty accessing or completing these forms, please contact geology@lsu.edu for assistance or to request an alternative format.
GEOL 3909
Provides opportunities for individual research experiences under the direction of faculty. The Department expects that the course will provide meaningful research experiences that will enhance student learning and preparation for advanced training, and not be limited to day-to-day laboratory tasks. Course may be taken for 1-3 hours per semester, for a total of up to 9 hours.
GEOL 3999
Students further conduct individual research on problems in the geological sciences, including writing, public presentation, and defense of a research thesis before a defense committee of three faculty members. GEOL 3999 is excellent preparation for advanced training in graduate school or for the geological workforce. A GPA of 3.0 is required for this course.