Bachelors in Geological Sciences

The Geological Sciences major includes a spectrum of disciplines focused on understanding the processes that influence the tectonics and environment of the planet, on using this understanding to read the record of earth history written in rocks and sediments, and on developing models that can be used to predict future changes due to natural phenomena and recent perturbations caused by humans. Issues of societal concern related to seismic risk, climate change, environmental contamination, and other geologic hazards play an important role. The department is affiliated with two research centers: the Southern California Earthquake Center and the Wrigley Institute of Environmental Studies. Many graduates now hold positions in industry as environmental consultants or petroleum geologists, in government as managers or researchers, and in academia as faculty and researchers. The progressive degree program in Geological Sciences permits exceptional undergraduate students to receive both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Geological Sciences within five years.