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 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 2024 | Aug 1, 2023 | Jan 1, 2024 | May 1, 2024 |
| Autumn of 2025 | Aug 1, 2024 | Jan 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
Expected Cost of Attendance
Academic Year 2017-2018
| Year of Program: | Year 1 |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $15,080 |
| Fees | $3,196 |
| Books & Supplies | — |
| Instruments | — |
| Misc (e.g., Boards, Licensing exam, Uniforms) | $14,100 |
| Total | $32,376 |
Notes
Expected costs for the 2017-2018 academic year are based on full time attendance. From year to year, increases are anticipated consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
Estimated Living Expenses
Academic Year 2017-2018, off campus, with a roommate
| Year of Program: | Year 1 |
|---|---|
| Months enrolled | 12 |
| Food and Housing | — |
| Transportation | — |
| Miscellaneous Personal Costs | — |
Notes
- Amounts are what a student can apply to borrow for the number of months shown in each academic year based on living off campus with a roommate and not with a relative.
- International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on the numbers listed here.
- In general, to qualify for financial aid a student must be enrolled at least half time taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.