Geological Sciences

Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Science

Undergraduate Programs

Geological sciences is a great option if you are curious about the planet on which we live and interested in solving environmental problems facing humankind. You can choose between a B.A. program, which includes an interdisciplinary curriculum, or a B.S., which is more intensive in science classes. Graduates are in strong demand, as geoscientists address major societal issues including dwindling energy resources, climate change, environmental pollution, and natural disasters from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and coastal subsidence.

Majors (Emphasis/Specialization)

  • Geological Sciences, B.A.
  • Geological Sciences (Environmental Geosciences), B.S.
  • Geological Sciences (General Geology), B.S.
  • Geological Sciences (Geophysics), B.S.

Sample Courses

  • Mineralogy
  • Natural Disasters
  • Petrology
  • Geology of National Parks and Monuments

Graduate Programs

  • Geological Sciences (MS), M.S.
  • Geological Sciences - Geophysics (MS), M.S.
  • Geological Sciences - Hydrogeology (MS), M.S.
  • Geophysics, Ph.D.

Career Options

Our graduates enter many different fields, including management, scientific, and geotechnical consulting services. Many government agencies, including the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the California Department of Conservation, and regional planning offices hire geoscientists.

  • Geosyntec Consultants
  • Amazon
  • State Water Resources Control Board
  • Esri GIS Mapping Software

Transferable Skills

  • Thinking critically on scientific data and research
  • Developing innovative approaches to explore solutions
  • Technical writing
  • Leading and contributing to a team
  • Public speaking, presentation, and didactic skills
  • Analyzing statistical data, reports, and research
  • Conducting research and laboratory tests
  • Writing scientific reports and papers

Earth and Environmental Sciences Department

College of Sciences