When choosing the best geology courses, it is important to keep in mind the specific subject taught, the rigor of the course, and any special benefits to taking the class. Geology is an interesting and broad science, and choosing a geology course specific to your interests can help maintain those interests for longer. Beginning courses may be simple or accelerated, but either way should provide a broad basis for further study in geology. Special benefits to courses might include field trips, special lab work, or even learning how to use unique computer programs. The best course for any given person depends on that person's individual needs, but a course that not only teaches but also inspires further learning is ideal.
There are many different reasons to take geology courses, and the reason for taking the course in part determines how appropriate the course is for your needs. For example, a person taking geology courses to fulfill science requirements for a university program needs a somewhat different course than a person who intends to teach geology someday. Also, a beginning geology student needs different courses than a person pursuing an advanced degree. Considering your own situation can help choose the best geology course, and if there is confusion, a school adviser can often help suggest the best path to take.
The prestige of the school and its facilities can also be a factor when determining which geology course is the best. In many cases, a person is limited to geology courses at the school he or she has access to, but when you can choose from any number of schools, choosing a school that has excellent geology labs and prestigious faculty can be a great idea. Learning by doing is very important in some sections of geology, but the type of labs involved may be quite different for different sections.
Choosing geology courses based on special features like field trips is actually quite appropriate in this case, because many geological features in the world must be seen in order to be fully understood. Field trips to local geological sites can be extremely valuable to students and should not be overlooked when choosing courses. When possible, it is a good idea to look into the specifics of the trips and whether they involve any hands-on work. Geology is a rare and special science in that its subject is literally all around us, though it mainly goes unnoticed. For many people, seeing geological processes at work can be enough to spark a life-long interest in the subject.
