Academic Programs
The Department of Geological Sciences at CSUB offers Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), and Master of Science (MS) degrees in Geology. We also offer an Undergraduate Minor in Geology.
Click on the program titles below to find more information about our different programs. Please contact the Department Chair, Graduate Program Director, or the Administrative Support Coordinator if you have questions.
Program Information
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Geology degree provides a foundation in field, laboratory, and theoretical aspects of geological sciences. The curriculum stresses the physical framework of the environment and its relationships to organisms and humans. At the completion of their degree programs, students will have basic knowledge and understanding of the content of modern geology, will have acquired knowledge and demonstrated skills to collect and analyze Earth’s minerals and rocks, and will understand the philosophical, mathematical and physical science foundations of geological sciences.
The primary difference between the BS and BA in Geology programs is that the BS in Geology requires GEOL 4090 (Field Course in Geology) and MATH 2510 or similar (Single Variable Calculus I), which are essential courses for a career as a professional geologist.
For more details and to see the degree requirements, see the CSUB Program Catalog.
See an example course schedule plan on the Program Pathway Map.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Geology degree provides a foundation in field, laboratory, and theoretical aspects of geological sciences. The curriculum stresses the physical framework of the environment and its relationships to organisms and humans. At the completion of their degree programs, students will have basic knowledge and understanding of the content of modern geology, will have acquired knowledge and demonstrated skills to collect and analyze Earth’s minerals and rocks, and will understand the philosophical, mathematical and physical science foundations of geological sciences.
The primary difference between the BS and BA in Geology programs is that the BA in Geology does not require GEOL 4090 (Field Course in Geology) and MATH 2510 or similar (Single Variable Calculus I), which are essential courses for a career as a professional geologist.
For more details and to see the degree requirements, see the CSUB Program Catalog.
See an example course schedule plan on the Program Pathway Map.
The Master of Science (MS) in Geology degree provides a thesis track—where students perform cutting-edge Earth Science research—and a non-thesis track. Optional concentrations in Petroleum Geology and Hydrogeology are also available. The MS in Geology program is intended to prepare students for professional positions in the petroleum industry, environmental and geotechnical consulting industries, government agencies, and for doctoral-level graduate studies.
Students can select from a wide spectrum of research topics, mentored by leading faculty experts with broad research interests and experience. Modern instruments and technology at CSUB provide opportunities for cutting edge analyses. The proximity of campus to government regulatory agencies, hydrogeology and environmental firms, and the petroleum industry provides students with professional networking opportunities. Easy access from CSUB to various geological environments allows for uniquely diverse research options.
For more details and to see the degree requirements, see the CSUB Program Catalog.
Check the Admission Requirements before you apply, and contact us with any questions.
The Geology curriculum stresses the physical framework of the environment and its relationships to organisms and humans. At the completion of their degree programs, students will have basic knowledge and understanding of the content of modern geology, will have acquired knowledge and demonstrated skills to collect and analyze Earth’s minerals and rocks, and will understand the philosophical, mathematical and physical science foundations of geological sciences.
A minor in Geology consists of 16 units. A minimum of 8 units must be earned in upper division courses.
For more details and to see the degree requirements, see the CSUB Program Catalog.