Program Description

Research and course work emphasize field and laboratory studies in sedimentology, paleontology, igneous petrology, and geology in health and the environment. Research in paleontology may also be pursued through the M.S. and Ph.D. degree curricula in biology, and through the Ph.D. degree curriculum in earth science.

The Geology Program focuses on field-oriented geology. The integrated core course sequence provides students with the tools to conduct research in the subdisciplines of sedimentology, paleontology, igneous petrology, or environmental geology.

Fieldwork is emphasized because it provides a first-hand experience with geological phenomena that cannot be satisfactorily grasped or understood solely from classroom or laboratory study. Throughout the geology curriculum, students are encouraged to develop an open-minded and investigative approach to the application of the scientific method to the resolution of geologic problems.

Program Website

Program Length

Two-year track for students with an undergraduate degree in geology. A minimum of 56 quarter units, including 44 at or above the 500 level, constitutes the curriculum for the Master of Science degree in geology.

Possible Careers

Geologists study the physical aspects and history of the earth. They identify and examine rocks, study information collected by remote sensing instruments in satellites, conduct geological surveys, construct maps, and use instruments to measure the earth's gravity and magnetic field. They also analyze information collected through seismic prospecting, which involves bouncing sound waves off buried rock layers. Some geologists search for oil, natural gas, minerals, and underground water. Geoscientists play an increasingly important part in studying, preserving, and cleaning up the environment.

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Autumn of 2025 Aug 1, 2024 Jan 1, 2025 Jul 31, 2025
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2025-2026

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
12 		Year 3
6
Tuition & Fees $16,480 $16,560 $8,280
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$1,500 $600 $100

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
9 		Year 2
12 		Year 3
6
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $12,015 $16,020 $8,010
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $19,800 $26,400 $13,200
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $20,655 $27,540 $13,770
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $7,290 $9,720 $4,860
  • Off Campus
    		•  $19,800 $26,400 $13,200
    Transportation Allowance $3,150 $4,200 $2,100
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $3,285 $4,380 $2,190
    Federal Student Loan Fees 0 0 0
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 0 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request

    Notes

    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.