Geology Department

Introduction

The Department of Geology provides a variety of courses and degree programs designed to increase students' understanding of the Earth, to continue their education toward advanced degrees in the Earth sciences and to obtain meaningful career employment.

The BS in Geology offers a flexible program that prepares students for admission to graduate programs in the geosciences, and for entry-level positions in engineering, geophysical and geological firms; in engineering, hazardous materials, regulatory, or ecological firms; in computer mapping firms; and in local, regional, and state government agencies.

The BA in Earth Science provides broad background in the earth sciences, with significant formal training in upper-division geology courses. With appropriate electives, a student can use this degree to apply to a single subject credential program to become a secondary school teacher. The program was designed to meet California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) requirements for subject matter preparation in geology. However, completion of the program will not guarantee admission to the credential program. Like all other applicants, students must meet credential program standards and undergo screening for admission.

The minor in geology allows graduates to supplement their major degree program with a broad, well-founded understanding of the Earth sciences and the principles of scientific investigation.

The MS in Geology provides graduates with advanced training in geology, including completion of an independent research thesis. The academic curriculum and extensive faculty expertise provide the opportunity for study in many areas of geology, with particular emphasis on applied geology and tectonics. Graduates are employed as geologists, engineering geologists, hydrogeologists, hydrologists, geophysicists and environmental managers (in engineering, geological, geophysical and environmental consulting firms and in the mining and petroleum industries). Graduates also pursue careers with research agencies, local and state government and teaching institutions.

Geology and Earth Science Honors Program

Departmental honors in the BS Geology and Earth Science degree programs are awarded to those majors who have achieved a 3.5 grade point average in their required departmental courses and have completed an undergraduate research project. A proposal for undergraduate research, including an identified Geology faculty supervisor, must be approved by the Geology honors committee for acceptance into the honors program. Completion of two units of Geology 180 and both written and oral presentation of research results are required for completion of the program.