Geological Sciences Department

Building 4 Room 242 | (909) 869-5116 | Department Website | Faculty Directory

The Geological Sciences Department aspires to provide the highest quality education in Earth Science and its applications. Through hands-on learning, faculty-mentored research, and exposure to current technology, students acquire skills applicable to careers in geosciences and related fields. The department emphasizes understanding Earth system processes and their interrelationships, arming students with a global perspective for problem solving, decision making, and leadership in a rapidly changing world.

The department emphasizes a “learn-by-doing” approach grounded in interdisciplinary fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and modern geospatial technologies. Students choose from emphases in geology, geophysics/earth exploration, or environmental resources, all of which integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application. Faculty are active researchers in areas such as tectonics, hydrogeology, environmental geoscience, and planetary science, and regularly involve students in research supported by grants and partnerships with government agencies and industry. The program supports a collaborative and inclusive academic culture that prepares students for both professional practice and advanced study.

Students participate in field-based learning throughout Southern California and beyond, using industry-standard tools such as ground-penetrating radar, LiDAR, and geochemical instrumentation. On-campus facilities include a hydrogeochemical lab, X-ray and seismic equipment, fossil and mineral collections, and a dedicated computer lab. The department fosters professional development through internships, research opportunities, and student organizations, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consulting, resource management, hazard mitigation, and public service.

Programs

Bachelor

Geology, B.S.: 120 units

Master

Geology, M.S.: 30 units

Minor

Geology Minor: 20 units

Courses

Geological Sciences

NOTE: For all courses that have both a lecture component and a laboratory component (e.g., GSC 2150 and GSC 2150L ), both components are corequisites; that is, they must be taken concurrently.

F, W, Sp and Su notations indicate the quarter(s) each course is normally offered. Unless otherwise specified, the course is offered each year during the indicated quarter(s).

Field Trip Fee is required for various courses to cover transportation costs and varies according to type of transportation used.