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 2024 Aug 1, 2023 Jan 1, 2024 May 1, 2024
Autumn of 2025 Aug 1, 2024 Jan 1, 2025 May 1, 2025
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

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.