Geological Sciences - San Diego State University

Geological Sciences from San Diego State University is a Campus Bachelor Geology degree that prepares you for a Science career. Geological Sciences is the study of the earth: its origin and evolution, its composition, its structure, and its constantly changing character. Geologists study the chemical and physical properties of earth materials including minerals, rocks, fluids, and gases. They study the structure of the mobile outer shell of planet Earth, how ocean floors form and are destroyed, and how supercontinents assemble, fragment, and disperse. The history of the Earth includes the history of life from its first occurrence as single celled organisms during the Archean 4 to 2.5 billion years ago to the effects of present inhabitants, especially humans. Many geologists are deeply involved with the consequences of human-related environmental problems, such as global warming, and natural hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and floods. At SDSU, the Department of Geological Sciences seeks to address these issues through studies in the laboratory, computer modeling, and through direct observations in the field. Faculty research covers the globe from as far as away as New Zealand to the geologically spectacular setting right here in California. Students who are curious about planet Earth and its history, and who are challenged by problems that involve a broad knowledge of the Earth , should consider a major in geological sciences . Geological Sciences combine many important aspects of society, science, and mathematics ? it is the study of the world we inhabit. Program Overview The department offers a major in geological sciences with a Bachelor of Science degree in applied arts and sciences. Students entering this program will choose one of the following emphases, depending on their specific interests: general geology, engineering geology, geochemistry, geophysics, hydrogeology, marine geology or paleontology. Each emphasis shares many course requirements in common, but has unique individual requirements appropriate to the particular discipline. Requirements for all emphases are listed in the General Catalog. A beginning student uncertain of future interests might best choose the general geology option. Seven options are offered within the framework of the Bachelor of Science degree. These options are not degrees themselves, but are advising schedules that allow the students to select the courses best suited to a particular subdiscipline. There is a planned overlap in all options so that the basic courses for a classical education in geology are taken by all students regardless of the option selected. The options in general geology and hydrology are the most popular. Most of our entering majors do not have firm career goals and use the general geology option to guide them in planning their undergraduate career. It allows them considerable latitude in selecting courses and learning about all of the subdisciplines within the geological sciences . Career Opportunities Many geological scientists are employed to find ways to clean up the environment and keep it safe. Others will focus on exploration for valuable minerals (such as copper and gold), energy sources (such as coal, oil, and natural gas), or drinking water supplies. The employment outlook is favorable, particularly with engineering and toxic waste disposal firms, as public school teachers, and with energy companies. A geology graduate may be employed as one of the following professionals: hydrologist, geophysicist, geochemist, environmental scientist, oceanographer, teacher, research technician, geological surveyor, paleontologist, energy and resource explorer, and resource planner. Geologists are primarily employed by private corporations, including environmental, engineering, petroleum, mining, construction, and quarry companies; government agencies, such as the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Bureau of Mines, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the California Department of Conservation, and regional planning offices; and students with graduate degrees are sought for teaching positions in secondary schools, community colleges and universities. View more details on San Diego State University . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Geology courses.