Geology
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California’s North Coast is one of the most interesting geologic areas in the world. Our location provides an unparalleled geology laboratory to study tectonics, earthquakes, landsliding, shifting rivers, and rapid erosion. The natural setting forms the underpinnings of undergraduate programs leading to a B.A., B.S., and minor in geology, a B.A. in geoscience education, and a M.S. in Environmental Systems.
Both B.S. and B.A. programs in geology require a core program of chemistry, physics, calculus, and foundation courses in mineralogy, petrography, stratigraphy, structure, paleontology, geomorphology, and field methods. Students who have met the program’s core requirements have the option to take a variety of specialization courses including neotectonics, surficial processes, geophysics, soils, and quaternary geology. The culmination of the degree is a multi-week summer intensive field experience. The B.S. degree requires an independent research project at the senior level and is good preparation for graduate school.
The geosciences education option includes courses in oceanography, astronomy, and meteorology, as well as the core geology courses. It has been approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing as a waiver program for students interested in secondary school teaching.
Together with the Departments of Mathematics and Environmental Engineering, the Geology Department offers a M.S. degree in environmental systems. The geology option provides field and quantitative skills for the analysis and solution of problems in applied geology. The program emphasizes, but is not limited to, surficial processes and neotectonics.
Employers seek out Humboldt geology students because of their competence in the field and their rigorous scientific background. HSU graduates are employed by government agencies such as the U.S. and California Geological Surveys, Forest Service, Caltrans, and Corps of Engineers. Over 40 percent of Humboldt geology graduates go on to enter graduate degree programs.
Degrees Offered
MS, BS, BA, Minor