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Geology is the study of the Earth, and in particular its history, structure, and the processes that have molded our planet and its biosphere. Geology involves the origin of continents and ocean basins, earthquakes and volcanoes, variations in global climate, and how these physical changes impact the evolution of life. All of these planetary processes are viewed through the prism of 'deep time', a perspective unique to geoscientists and one that distinguishes geology from most of the other physical sciences. Applied aspects of the geosciences involve interactions between humans and the environment and include mineral resources such as oil and water, geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides and volcanic eruptions, river restoration and understanding climate change.
Real World
Recently in California, the largest employers of geologists have been environmental and geotechnical consulting firms, with oil companies, research laboratories and government agencies also providing opportunities. There is a growing need for earth science teachers at all pre-college levels, and colleges and universities hire qualified applicants for teaching and research. Internships are strongly encouraged for undergraduates and are a means of exploring potential career opportunities that can lead to positions after graduation.
Major Requirements
After completing initial sequences of courses in biology, mathematics and chemistry, you may choose to pursue an A.B. or B.S. program. The A.B. program allows you greater flexibility to take courses outside of the major, and the B.S. program provides more in-depth study of advanced geology topics. If you've chosen the B.S. track, you'll specialize in one of three areas: general geology, geochemistry/petrology or quantitative/geophysics.
Major Adviser
Name: Marlene Belz
Contact: belz@geology.ucdavis.edu, (530) 752-9100
A Student Perspective
My favorite field class was rafting the Grand Canyon, with Jeff Mount. It was an indescribably awesome experience. The Grand Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and being able to appreciate its geological aspects emphasized its beauty. The most telling thing I can say about the experience is that at the end of the class I just wanted to do it all over again.
~ Kathryn Gragg, senior
A Faculty Perspective
The geology program at Davis is very well-ranked nationally; we have a jewel of a department here that is quickly becoming discovered. Our undergraduate students are a very strong force in the program. If they want something, whether it is a course that has not been offered for two years or a field trip to the Grand Canyon over spring break, we figure out a way to do it. They are incredibly active in requesting extra field trips that are not part of specific courses – and the department is very receptive to these requests. And every lab in this department has an undergraduate, or several, working on research projects.
~ Isabel Montanez, professor
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