Geosciences

Bachelor of Science

Geoscience is the scientific study of the Earth and how it works. You’ll learn how our planet and its life forms have changed through time.

Well-trained geoscientists can help the nation and the world chart an environmentally and economically sound course into the future.

The Curriculum
A unique place to do field and laboratory work

You’ll spend time outdoors as a geosciences major, applying what you’ve learned in the classroom to some of Southern California’s unique geological features. You’ll also learn important laboratory techniques in our newly renovated classrooms and labs.

Get to know the specialties of your field

Your courses will familiarize you with current developments and techniques within various geosciences subdisciplines. Areas of study include paleontology, climate change, geologic hazards, water resources, field methods, stratigraphy, sedimentology and more.

An interconnected discipline

You’ll work closely with other related disciplines — environmental science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and geography — as you expand your knowledge of how the Earth works, analyze natural resources and geologic hazards and mitigate human impact on our environment.

Meaningful research that connects to your future

Doing research in a field you are passionate about gives you valuable and relevant experience for your future career. Prior student research projects have included:

  • A study of the shell preservation of microfossils, relating ocean chemistry to warming-cooling periods of the past by a student who now works as an environmental geologist.
  • A study of the Miocene Ricardo Formation in Red Rock Canyon State Park by a student who now works as an exploration geologist for Exxon/Mobil.
  • A study of the vertebral column of the beaked whale Mesoplodon europaeus by a student who is now pursuing a Ph.D. in vertebrate paleontology at the University of Michigan.


Programs

Offered as a major (BS) and a minor.


Recommended Minors

Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.


The Experience

l’ve had the opportunity to do work that most undergraduates aren’t able to do, such as paleontology research and traveling to Colorado and Baltimore to present that research. I love that we have a lot to discover about how some of the most beautiful natural sights on Earth were made and why we should continue preserving them.

Miguel Miguel ‘17

Being able to work hands-on with all of my professors has really allowed me to develop my skills in geology. I am able to constantly talk to them, get advice, and share ideas of what I would like to do. That has helped me a lot in making decisions.

William Zimmerle '16

Read William's Story

Your Future

Along with being accepted in graduate schools around the country, many Cal Lutheran geoscience majors have entered careers in environmental geology, geophysics, environmental cleanup and response, and education.

In both the public and private sectors, geoscientists are hired to study groundwater pollution, earthquake hazards and landslides. They also work in research laboratories or the mining and petroleum industries.


Our alumni study at:
  • California State University, Northridge
  • Northern Arizona University
  • Stanford University
  • Texas A & M
  • University of Michigan
  • University of Notre Dame
  • University of Nevada Las Vegas
  • University of Southern California
  • University of Texas of the Permian Basin
  • University of Wisconsin, Madison
Our alumni work for:
  • Arcadis
  • California State Parks
  • Cardno ERI
  • Cliff Berry Inc.
  • Exxon-Mobil
  • Fugro West, Inc.
  • Geolabs-Westlake Village
  • Grover-Hollingsworth & Associates, Inc.
  • Petrolog
  • Southern California Soil and Testing, Inc.
  • Trey Resources, Inc.
  • U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Career paths:
  • Geologist
  • Environmental Geologist
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Project Manager
  • Science Policy
  • Science Teacher

of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months

More Career Outcomes



I really enjoy geology because the classes and field trips help me to better understand the world around me. Also, who wouldn’t love a minor that requires them to go camping under the stars in Death Valley or along the coast in Morro Bay? Some of my fondest memories in college are with the geology department.

Danielle Rose '16

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