Undergraduate Programs

Two undergraduate degrees are offered by the Earth Science Department, as well as a minor.

The bachelor of science degree in Earth System is designed for those students considering a professional career in environmental, geotechnical, or engineering geology. The program also provides a fundamental education in geology that prepares students for graduate studies in the geological sciences. The required curriculum includes surficial geology courses (geomorphology, hydrology) not required as part of the B.S. in Geology.

Please note: Beginning in Fall 2024, the B.S. in Earth Science program will be renamed "B.S. in Earth System." Catalog links below do not yet reflect this name change, but requirements and descriptions listed still provide an accurate overview of the program.

The bachelor of science degree program in Geology provides training in the geological sciences for those planning to pursue professional careers in industry or enter a graduate degree program. Students explore fundamental geological processes, cultivate skills in integrative three-dimensional geological thinking, and engage in laboratory and field experience, and pursue interests in the many subdisciplines of the geological sciences.

 

Additional information can be found in the Earth Science - CSULB Catalog (23-24).

Not sure if earth science is for you? Learn more about Careers in Earth Science.

Additional Resources

Here are a few recorded info sessions where faculty give an overview about the fields of study offered by the department.

The follow describes the program learning outcomes for the undergraduate programs in the department.

Program Learning Objectives for B.S. Geology and B.S. Earth System

Graduates will be able to:

  1. Explain fundamental Earth Science terms and concepts. (WASC 5; CSULB B and E)
  2. Identify a geologic problem, develop working hypotheses, and describe methods for testing the hypotheses. (WASC 2 and 3; CSULB A and E)
  3. Collect, analyze, and interpret quantitative data. (WASC 3, 4; CSULB A, B, and E)
  4. Collect, analyze, and interpret spatial data. (WASC 3, 4; CSULB A, B, and E)
  5. Communicate scientific observations and interpretations through oral, written and graphical presentation. (WASC 1 and 2, CSULB A, D, and E)
  6. Explain the importance of Earth Science in society. (WASC 3 and 5, CSULB A, C, and D)

Relationship to WSCUC Core Competencies and CSULB ILOs in (parentheses).

WSCUC Core Competencies

WSCUC Core Competencies are:

  1. Written Communication
  2. Oral Communication
  3. Critical Thinking
  4. Quantitative Reasoning
  5. Information Literacy

CSULB Institutional Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

  1. Demonstrate a strong liberal education foundation in oral and written communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and information literacy skills to become civically engaged human beings.
  2. Integrate foundational knowledge with disciplinary or professional competency to successfully lead personal, civic, and professional lives they consider meaningful.
  3. Value equity, diversity, social justice, and global citizenship and promote the public good in local, national, and global communities.
  4. Promote and participate respectfully with our diverse community. Actively engage in self-reflection and critical analysis of one’s own perspectives and biases and value other’s perspectives.
  5. Integrate and engage in evidence-based decision making, life-long learning, curiosity, collaboration, innovation, critical thinking and research and creative activities in understanding and analyzing the world.
  6. Cultivate physical/mental health and well-being of self and community, and promote economic, socio-cultural, and environmental sustainability to thrive.