Earth Science
The Department of Earth Science
www.geol.ucsb.edu
e-mail: [email protected]
MAJORS OFFERED:
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Earth Science
Bachelors of Science (BS) in Earth Science
(with emphases in Climate & Environment, Geology, Geophysics,
Geohydrology and Paleobiology)
Earth Science is the study of the earth—of its rocks, minerals and records of
ancient life, and of the physical, chemical and biological processes, past and present,
at work on and in the earth. On the practical side, earth scientists locate water, oil
and minerals. They develop methods to evaluate and clean up the environment. Earth
scientists also study the history of the climate and are playing a central role in the debate
about global warming.
On the theoretical side, earth science looks at the earth’s history over vast stretches of time. Scientists use the fossil
record to study the evolution of life and to develop theories that explain rates of evolutionary change. Earth scientists
investigate the formation of mountains, valleys and deserts. Geological study also extends to the moon and the
planets. Earth scientists help to plan space explorations and develop theories that explain how planets are formed.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH EARTH SCIENCE?
To pursue a career in earth science, students need at least a bachelor’s degree with a strong background in chemistry, physics,
mathematics and earth science. Students who are interested in paleontology also need a solid background in biology. As in
any profession, the best jobs go to the most highly qualified candidates, and a graduate degree is required for most entry-level
professional positions. Therefore, students who are planning professional careers in earth science should consider earning an
advanced degree. UCSB’s undergraduate program prepares students for graduate study in earth science and related fields.
WHY IS EARTH SCIENCE AT UCSB
A GREAT CHOICE?
• The department is strongly committed to one-on-one
student/faculty/staff interaction and feels that this “hands
on” approach to education makes the UCSB Earth Science
undergraduate experience quite unique.
• The education programs provide students with unmatched
field experience, and involve them in cutting edge research.
• Faculty have earned many awards, bestowed by the most
prestigious professional organizations in the field. The faculty
includes members of the National Academy of Sciences, and
winners of the UCSB Distinguished Teaching Award,
• The department conducts field studies in diverse regions
ranging from the tallest mountain peaks of the Himalayas and
the wilderness of Antarctica to the undiscovered depths of
the ocean floor.
• Each year, students participate in field trips to the Sierra
Nevada, the California deserts, Santa Cruz Island and
locations in the UC Natural Reserve System along the
California Coast.
LINKS FOR EXPLORATION
About the Department
http://www.geol.ucsb.edu/about
Undergraduate Study
http://www.geol.ucsb.edu/education/undergrad
Meet the Faculty
http://www.geol.ucsb.edu/people
Earth Science Labs and Instrumentation
http://www.geol.ucsb.edu/facilities
USEFUL CAMPUS SERVICES
Advice on Choosing a Major
http://www.lsugeducation.ucsb.edu/advising/major
UCSB Catalog
http://my.sa.ucsb.edu/catalog
UCSB Career Services
http://career.sa.ucsb.edu/
Campus Learning Assistance Services
http://clas.sa.ucsb.edu/CLAS_services.htm
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA – OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS
1210 Cheadle Hall, Santa Barbara, CA 93106