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Paleontology

Paleontology

What is Paleontology?

Paleontologists discover the secrets buried in ancient plant life and the remains of organisms.  Students in OU's Paleontology program in the School of Geosciences take courses to prepare them to conduct field research as well as give them the background necessary to analyze the samples they gather. OU Paleontology students work in the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History in the labs and collections to gain hands-on experience. Students typically explore their own research interests and complete research projects with the curators at the museum.

Do my interests fit?

Paleontology students typically have interests in:

  • Problem solving
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Working in the field/lab

High school preparation should include science and math courses, and earth sciences if offered.

Paleontology FAQ

The School of Geosciences prepares students for success in their professional careers by instilling knowledge, skills, confidence, and the ability to contribute to the wise stewardship of the earth and its resources. The curriculum is taught by exceptional faculty who prioritize providing hands-on learning through labs and field trips. Courses stress the fundamentals of science within a creative interdisciplinary environment with the freedom to specialize in a particular area of emphasis or take a more general approach. The School of Geosciences offers every undergraduate the opportunity to conduct independent research mentored by faculty and has state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories available for students to use in both classes and undergraduate research.

There are numerous clubs’ paleontology students can be a part of. Check them out:

For more information about other student organizations please visit OU ENGAGE.

Paleontology courses include:

  • Introduction to Mineral Sciences
  • Introductory Zoology
  • Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
  • Sedimentary Petrology and Sedimentology
  • Paleobotany
  • Evolutionary Paleobiology
  • Evolution
  • Structural Geology
  • Invertebrate Paleontology
  • Geowriting
  • Depositional Systems & Stratigraphy
  • Field Geology - Capstone
  • Environmental geologist
  • Geologist
  • Anthropologist
  • Lab manager
  • Forensic analyst
  • Researcher
  • Curator
  • Consulting paleontologist
  • Topographic surveyor

Geology students have the opportunity to study abroad through a variety of programs.

Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree. 

The University of Oklahoma Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy School of GeoSciences

School of Geosciences
Phone: (405) 325-3255
Email: rfay@ou.edu
Website: ou.edu/geosciences