Senior Field Camp
Our six-week GEOL 3666 Field Geology course immerses students in a setting where the spectacular outcrops range from Precambrian granites and pegmatites through Paleozoic and Mesozoic sedimentary sequences and fossils to Cenozoic glacial and stream deposits. Students can gain hands-on expertise in geology, geomorphology, hydrology and geophysics through our curriculum that progresses from foundational skills to advanced independent projects.
In this experience, students gain field skills such as stratigraphic measurement, geologic mapping, rocks descriptions, structural analysis, and integration of field observations into regional geologic frameworks. At the end, each student will have a diverse portfolio of skills and experiences based on 5-6 projects in the rugged terrain of central Colorado and northern New Mexico.
We are dedicated to preparing our graduates for the workforce through partner and team projects with independent accountability for all deliverables, safety protocols that mirror professional field positions, development of scientific communication skills through written reports, and the creation of visual aids such as maps, cross-sections, and stratigraphic columns. Projects now incorporate modern technology (e.g. GIS, tablet mapping) to build on their foundational skills.
Experience authentic field geology in a supportive community environment. Our rustic but comfortable facilities foster camaraderie while maintaining focus on intensive geological training. Students share camp duties, navigate terrain at high elevations (6000-9000 ft), and develop resilience alongside peers who share their passion for Earth science.
Where and how do I sign-up?
If you are interested in participating in Senior Field Camp, please use the buttons
below to download the required application and medical forms. Both forms are provided
as PDF files. If you experience any difficulty accessing or completing them, please
contact Dr. Amy Luther at aluther@lsu.edu.
Field Camp Scholarships
As described on the Blackbaud website, LSU awards numerous scholarships each academic year through the fundraising efforts of generous private donors. Scholarships are awarded based on several factors, including academic achievement, financial need, enrollment, and donor-specific requirements. Please complete a general application ASAP, as most field campers are eligible for some funding.