Field Experiences

Grants and Scholarships

Field camp provides immersive, hands-on learning that helps students apply classroom knowledge in real-world geological settings while developing essential skills, professional confidence, and career readiness across academia, government, and industry.

J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarships

Application deadline: 10 April 2026

This award is for undergraduate students to attend summer field camp. Students will be awarded $3,000 each to attend the field camp of their choice based on diversity, economic/financial need, and merit.

Geology Field Camps

Established in 2019 through the generosity of J. David Lowell (1928–2020), a renowned field-based mineral exploration geologist, the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship has supported at least 20 students pursuing summer field camp experiences each year. While tuition represents a significant portion of the cost, field camps often entail additional expenses such as travel, lodging, and specialized equipment. GSA recognizes field camp as a foundational component of geoscience education and is committed to supporting students as they enter this critical stage of professional development.

The Geological Society of America (GSA) is pleased to announce that, in honor of Dr. Paul E. Potter, it will increase the award amount of the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship from $2,000 to $3,000 per recipient, beginning with the 2026 summer field season.

Donate to the J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Fund

The J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship fund was established through the generosity of Dr. David Lowell, renowned field-based mineral exploration geologist. For many students, the financial cost of pursuing fieldwork can be a burden. This fund allows GSA to provide financial support for aspiring geoscientists, so they can hone their field skills and discover their interests without financial strain.

Special Addition for J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship Awardees

GSA partner Brunton will provide each recipient with an engraved orange Standard Transit! Maker of the essential geologist's instrument, Brunton aims to inspire, educate, and support professional pursuits in the sciences. GSA is proud to work with a company so aligned with its own mission.

A person holds an orange Brunton orange tool against a map. They are outdoors.

Short-Term Field Opportunities

NPS Scientists in Parks

Applications closed. We occasionally offer opportunities outside the summer and winter seasons. Check for new projects.

Scientists in Parks provides immersive, science-related, career-building experiences in partnership with the National Park Service.

How To Apply

GeoCorps™ America

Applications closed. We occasionally offer opportunities. Check for new projects.

Trying to apply for a project? We recommend logging into the application first and adding projects from there.

GeoCorps America is a program of the Geological Society of America that partners with the Bureau of Land Management and USDA Forest Service to offer short-term, paid geoscience opportunities on federal lands.

How To Apply GeoCorps Login

Other Field Programs

EarthCache™

Let the Earth be Your Teacher

The very first EarthCache ("EarthCache I" [GCHFT2]) was placed by user "geoaware" on 10 Jan. 2004 on a headland in New South Wales, Australia. Since then, more than 6.3 million people have logged visits to EarthCache sites, and the number is growing exponentially. GSA is very proud to be part of the exciting geocaching community and hope we can continue to add value and wonderful Earth science experiences through the EarthCache program.

Field Safety

Future Grants

IGC Travel Grants

38th International Geological Congress (IGC) Student and Early Career Scientists Travel Grant Mentoring Program in 2028

Applications will be open in 2027 for the 2028 Congress

This award is for students and early career professionals (within seven years of receiving their last degree). To be eligible, applicants must be residents or citizens of the U.S. and be enrolled in, or employed at, a U.S. institution.