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.
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.
My internship with the Bureau of Ocean and Energy Management prepared me greatly for my next steps after Cal Lutheran. Working side by side with a geologist, geophysicist, and petroleum engineer has given me insight into the industry I couldn't have previously imagined. This experience is helping me prepare for graduate school.
Matthew Scipione ’16
Geology can be challenging at times with the various course requirements, but in the end, it’s worth it for the overall experience. The geoscience community is also very open and welcoming at Cal Lutheran and outside.
Cameron Fetter '25
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
Danielle Rose '16
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