COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Geology with a concentration in General Geology is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in geological principles while preparing them for professional careers or advanced study. The program integrates lower-division core courses, upper-division core courses, and a concentration in General Geology, ensuring a balance between theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and specialized training.Lower-division courses, totaling 26 units, provide the foundational knowledge required for advanced geological study. Students complete coursework in general chemistry, introductory physical geology or Geology of Mexico, digital methods in geoscience, historical geology and its lab, calculus, and general physics. These courses establish essential scientific and quantitative skills that underpin the upper-division curriculum.Upper-division core courses, totaling 46 units, focus on more specialized geological topics, including Earth materials, sedimentology, stratigraphy, structural geology, field geology, field techniques, regional geology such as the Geology of California, and the Geology Colloquium. Students also select from concentrations such as General Geology or Hydrogeology. The General Geology concentration requires 24 additional units, including 12 units of required courses in optical mineralogy, igneous and metamorphic petrology, and advanced geologic mapping, as well as 12 units of elective courses in areas such as paleontology, geophysics, volcanology, geochemistry, marine geology, environmental field methods, and senior research. This concentration ensures students gain both depth and breadth in the field of geology.The program also integrates 43 units of general education coursework, including English communication, mathematics, arts and humanities, social and behavioral sciences, physical and biological sciences, ethnic studies, and upper-division courses in these areas. Additional graduation requirements include American institutions courses, writing-intensive courses, race and ethnicity studies, English composition, and foreign language proficiency. Opportunities for course overlap between major requirements and general education are available to help students complete their degree efficiently.Overall, the BS in General Geology combines rigorous scientific training with practical fieldwork and research experience, preparing students for careers in environmental consulting, resource management, education, and other geology-related professions or for continued study at the graduate level.