Department of Geological Sciences

students hiking

Welcome to the Department of Geological Sciences

The Department of Geological Sciences focuses on teaching the fundamentals of Earth science, including the scientific method, the ways in which these Earth systems interact with each other, and how humans are currently affecting these systems. Our faculty strive to incorporate current scientific problems into the curriculum, including courses on natural hazards (i.e., earthquakes, wildfire and landslides) and paleoclimatology, in addition to core courses in geology and geophysics. We strive to prepare our students for a diversity of careers, including resource management, education, geotechnical engineering, environmental remediation and energy production, as well as postgraduate study.

Undergraduate Programs

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B.A. Environmental Science

This degree provides a strong foundation in the major disciplines of environmental and Earth sciences upon which students can layer relevant coursework in other related fields to prepare for careers that integrate environmental science with policy, public awareness, K through 12 education, and resource and risk evaluations.

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B.S. Geology - Geology Option

This option provides the most flexibility, preparing students for a full range of technical careers in geoscience and for advanced studies in graduate school. It can be specialized toward different branches of geosciences by the appropriate choices of elective courses. The B.S. Honors Program is available for this option.

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B.S. Geology - Geophysics Option

This option provides the necessary preparation in mathematics and physics to succeed in geoscience applications that require strong backgrounds in these associated disciplines. This option well prepares students for technical careers in geophysics or for advanced studies in graduate school. The B.S. Honors Program is available for this option.

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Minor in Geology

This is designed for students who are interested in Earth Sciences, but with a major in another department. For example, majors in other sciences, mathematics, engineering and business often find employment in environmental, resource-related and energy-related industries. For these majors, the Geology minor broadens the individual’s understanding of the Earth Sciences and how they relate to human endeavors.

Graduate Programs

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M.S. Geology - Geology Option

The Master of Science program has two options: Geology and Geophysics. These programs are designed to: (1) train individuals with the competence required by the geological profession for employment in industry and government agencies; (2) enable promising students to attain a level of knowledge and research ability necessary for admission to and success in Ph.D. programs; and (3) provide depth and breadth of knowledge, laboratory teaching experience and fundamental research skills essential to students planning to teach geology at the community college level.

landscape of mountains

M.S. Geology - Geophysics Option

The Master of Science program has two options: Geology and Geophysics. These programs are designed to: (1) train individuals with the competence required by the geological profession for employment in industry and government agencies; (2) enable promising students to attain a level of knowledge and research ability necessary for admission to and success in Ph.D. programs; and (3) provide depth and breadth of knowledge, laboratory teaching experience and fundamental research skills essential to students planning to teach geology at the community college level.

Latest News

More News
Photo of a rocky valley with blue sky

November 17, 2023

CSUN Professors’ Research Rewrites Rocky Mountains’ Origin Story

Dr. Elena Miranda and Dr. Joshua Schwartz, professors in the Department of Geological Sciences, were intervie...

Photo of a rocky valley with blue sky

October 24, 2023

Geology Department Technician awarded 2023 DSC Excellence Award by Environmental Health & Safety

Congratulations to the Geological Sciences Department Technician, Adam Brackman (MS 2022), for being awarded ...

Professor Elena Miranda receiving 2023 Outstanding Publication Award

October 24, 2023

Elena Miranda awarded the 2023 Outstanding Publication Award from the Structural Geology and Tectonics Division of GSA!

Congratulations to Elena Miranda for being selected the 2023 Outstanding Publication Award from the...

Department Office

Department of Geological Sciences

 

Live Oak, Room 1202
18111 Nordhoff Street

Northridge, CA 91330

  • Phone: (818) 677-3541

Send email


Business Hours:
Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

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