What is Geology ? Geology has undergone a revolution in the past decade, becoming an interdisciplinary science that emphasizes the study of major Earth systems — the solid Earth, the Earth’s surface, the hydrosphere, atmosphere and cryosphere (ice!), and the ancient and modern biosphere. Geology majors learn how these systems work and how they are connected. Geology majors integrate knowledge of Earth materials, the processes that have shaped them and the deep chronology of Earth history to understand global change through time. For example, geology majors learn how the collision of continents and the creation of mountains affect sea level, climate and the diversity of marine organisms. Geology majors work in the field and go on field trips as part of their regular course work. Geology majors become skilled in working in the field; making and working with maps; collecting, processing and presenting data and images with computers; and identifying and analyzing materials using up-to-date instrumentation. The Department of Geology is close-knit and personable.

Career Possibilities There are positions for graduates with a BS in geology in environmental engineering and environmental consulting, as well as other fields. Graduates with a BS in geology are well-prepared for graduate study, which is generally required for a professional position in geology, and about three-quarters of UC geology majors go directly to graduate school for the MS or PhD degree. The skills that geology majors learn in observation, data analysis, field mapping, surveying, computing and communicating make them well-prepared for a wide variety of employment. Career possibilities include: Environmental engineer Environmental consultant Environmental Protection Agency employee Petroleum geologist Employee of state geological surveys Park naturalist Museum curator University professor Employee of the U.S. Geological Survey Book editor Computer analyst Public policy consultant