Geological Field Training
Get your boots dirty. Learn Earth Sciences the way it’s meant to be learned—out in the field.
Build real field skills in four weeks. The University at Buffalo’s Geological Field Training Course turns classroom knowledge into real-world experience. In just four weeks, upper-level geology and environmental science students gain practical, boots-on-the-ground skills in mapping, observation and problem-solving. With more than 50 years of history and over 2,100 alumni, this course is a UB summer tradition that builds confidence and careers.
How it runs:
Every other year, the course alternates between Western and Eastern destinations. Both versions deliver the same core outcomes—hands-on experience, professional field techniques and memories that last a lifetime—but each offers its own landscape, logistics and cost structure.
Apply to our Western Camp:
The deadline to apply and submit your deposit is January 31.
Students taking electrical resistivity measurements and collecting ground penetrating radar data at Elton Creek.
Next offered in Summer 2027
Discover the geology of the Northeast from the ground up. The Eastern Geological Field Training Course combines classroom learning with immersive fieldwork across Western New York and New England. Over four weeks, you’ll refine your mapping and observation skills, explore complex local geology and connect what you’ve learned on campus to the real world.
This course is perfect for students who want hands-on experience close to home while still getting the challenge and adventure of field-based learning.
Learn about:
- Affordability: UB’s program is more budget-friendly than most field camps, making it accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.
- Short and Convenient: The course is only four weeks long. This leaves you plenty of time to work, travel, or relax for the rest of the summer.
- Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced instructors, each with decades of field experience, who will equip you with skills and knowledge for modern geology careers.
The Eastern Geology Field Training Course combines practical, hands-on training with classroom knowledge. The training course includes visits to geological sites in the Buffalo region and a multi-day camping excursion to eastern New York/New England to study complex local geology.
- Daily Schedule: Typically 9 a.m.–5 p.m. on UB’s campus with optional dorm housing available. Most weekends are unscheduled, except for the final weekend.
- Camping Component: Students will spend a few nights camping at a fully equipped site in eastern New York/New England.
- Preparation: Be ready for variable weather and bring appropriate gear.
The costs of attending UB’s geological field training course include a course-specific fee, camping gear, tuition and on-campus housing (if required).
Field Course Fee $450
- The fee covers transportation, a field notebook for each student, motel stays (when applicable), other operating costs and daily lunches while in Buffalo.
- Non-refundable Deposit of $450 is required to reserve your spot (first-come, first-serve).
- Class size: Maximum 30 students
🥗 Daily Lunches
On-campus catering services provide daily lunches and typically include a sandwich or salad, chips, fruit, desert and water. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated given they are communicated at the time of applying.
Students may choose to opt-out of being provided daily lunches which will reduce the Field Course Fee to $200. This should be communicated immediately after receiving confirmation of acceptance to the field course.
Tuition and University Fees
Tuition rates are based on residency status and credit hours: UB has not yet posted 2027 rates. 2025 rates are included below.
Undergraduate: 6 Credit-hours
- New York State residents' tuition for 2025: $421.66 per credit hour (+) fees
- Out-of-state state students tuition for 2025: $1,279.66 per credit hour (+) fees
Graduate: 2 Credit-hours
- New York State residents' tuition for 2025: $597.66 per credit hour (+) fees
- Out-of-state state students tuition for 2025: $1,167.66 per credit hour (+) fees
Fees are subject to change. Refer to UB Student Accounts. for the most up-to-date rates.
Room and Board
Housing is available during the field training course on-campus for a daily rate ($46.33/day in 2025) for those who need it. The cost will be directly billed to the student account.
In order to apply for on-campus housing you first need to be registered for the summer course (e.g., ERT 407/507). The summer housing application typically open in late March/early April. Start your summer application now!
Before applying, you should have completed the following (or equivalent) courses:
- ERT 205: Earth Materials (Mineralogy/Petrology)
- ERT 315: Sedimentary Geology & Paleontology
- ERT 326: Structural Geology/Global Tectonics
For questions about equivalent coursework, email Dr. James Boyle at jamesboy@buffalo.edu.
Physical and Safety Requirements
Students can expect:
Long, beautiful hikes through rough terrain
Exposure to hot temperatures and potential rainstorms
All-day fieldwork from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays
Travel and Packing
Transportation
Students are responsible for their travel arrangements to and from Buffalo. Transportation during the camp is included in the fee.
Packing Checklist
Prepare for diverse weather conditions. Download this packing checklist to ensure you have the right gear.
Eastern Campsites
Students camp in tents during overnight trips, with access to toilets and occasional showers at motels or campsites.
Explore related courses in Earth Sciences:
- ERT 205: Earth Materials
- ERT315: Sedimentary Geology & Paleontology
- ERT 326: Structural Geology
For more information or questions, please email the Department of Earth Sciences.