Evaluating a Geology Degree
Because the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) examination is typically taken by graduating seniors or recent graduates, their aggregate performance serves as a valuable external benchmark for geoscience program review and curriculum assessment.
Departments across the country utilize the FG exam data to gauge the effectiveness of their instruction relative to national averages. This assessment allows faculty to identify specific domain strengths and weaknesses, justifying course adjustments or resource allocation to university administrators.
Essential Preparation
Resources designed for students preparing to sit for the FG and PG examinations, including handbooks and official prep guides.
- Candidate Handbook
- FG Prep Course
- Examination Schedule
Knowledge Domains
Exam blueprints and domains established by the national Task Analysis Surveys which reflect professional geological practice.
- 8 Content Domains
- 2023 Task Analysis
- Competency Areas
Academic Resources
Open-source textbooks, data sheets, and geological webinars frequently recommended to support geosciences instruction.
- Physical Geology Textbook
- USGS Water Resources
- AGI Geoscience Webinars
CPAT Assessment
The Curriculum Performance Assessment Tool provides detailed statistics by university and graduation year.
- Z-Score Calculations
- Domain ratio plotting
- Complimentary Access
Institutional Benefits
By incorporating FG exam performance into annual department assessments, institutions gain standardized, nationwide data to meet regional accreditation requirements (such as SACSCOC, MSCHE, and WASC) for verifying student learning outcomes in the geosciences.