# 2025-2026 General Catalog
**Source**: https://catalog.ucdavis.edu/departments-programs-degrees/earth-planetary-sciences/geology-bs/
**Parent**: https://catalog.ucdavis.edu/departments-programs-degrees/#programsanddegreestext
[Office & Contact Information](https://catalog.ucdavis.edu/departments-programs-degrees/earth-planetary-sciences/)
“Civilization exists by geological consent—subject to change without notice.” — Will Durant
Geology is the study of the Earth, and in particular its history, structure, and the processes that have molded our planet and its biosphere. Geology involves the origin of continents & ocean basins, earthquakes & volcanoes, variations in global climate, and how these physical changes impact the evolution of life. All of these planetary processes are viewed through the prism of “deep time,” a perspective unique to geologists and one that distinguishes geology from most of the other physical sciences.
A significant component of geology is oriented toward the interaction between humans and the Earth. This aspect includes the study of resources such as minerals, oil, and water; identification & mitigation of Earth hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, floods, and volcanic eruptions; identification & mitigation of polluted ground water; land use planning; and the study of ancient & modern climate change.
## The Program
Students interested in becoming professional geologists or continuing their geological studies at the graduate level should choose the Bachelor of Science degree program. The Bachelor of Arts program is for students interested in an interdisciplinary program of study, or who plan to go into pre-college teaching. The upper division electives are not restricted to geology courses but must be chosen to provide a relevant, coherent, and in-depth program of study.
### Undergraduate Research
The geosciences span many disciplines at UC Davis, and students have opportunities to participate in [undergraduate research](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/undergrad/gel/research) in a variety of interest areas. Many students choose to complete a senior thesis to develop their research and writing skills during their senior year.
### Internships & Careers
A degree in Geology provides students with knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue [careers](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/careers) in the geosciences (government, private sector, research, teaching). The major program includes flexibility to participate in research, internships, and fieldwork to help prepare students for these career paths. The requirements for a B.S. in Geology satisfy the coursework required for the Professional Geologist licensing process in the State of California.
### Global Learning in Geology
Consider studying or interning abroad through programs available through the [Global Learning Hub](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/undergrad/gel/studyabroad).
### Get Involved
Find your [community](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/undergrad/gel/involved) through clubs, events, seminars, and workshops relating to geoscience.
### Graduation Honors
Students graduating from the College of Letters & Science are eligible for Departmental Honors, depending on their GPA and whether or not they complete a Senior Thesis. Students who graduate with a GPA in the [top percentages of their college](https://catalog.ucdavis.edu/academic-information-policies-regulations/honors-prizes/) will automatically graduate with Honors. Students who qualify for Honors at graduation may also be eligible for High Honors or Highest Honors, based upon the quality of their [Senior Thesis](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/undergrad/gel/research) (course number 194A-194B) or Senior Honors Thesis (course number 194HA-194HB). It is Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences policy that an "A-" grade on the thesis will earn the student High Honors, and an "A" grade will earn the student Highest Honors.
### Advising
Visit the [staff major advisor](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/undergrad/advising) for help navigating major requirements and planning for your degree. Visit the [faculty major advisors](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/undergrad/advising) for additional advice on courses, careers, and graduate school. Faculty advisors: R. Motani, D. A. Osleger, M. Rudolph.
Visit the [College of Letters & Science advisors](https://lettersandscience.ucdavis.edu/advising) for help navigating [university requirements](https://catalog.ucdavis.edu/undergraduate-education/university-degree-requirements/) and [college requirements](https://catalog.ucdavis.edu/academic-information-policies-regulations/college-major-minor-information/).
## Graduate Study
The coursework, research and internship opportunities, and fieldwork requirements in the Geology major help prepare students to enter [graduate programs](https://eps.ucdavis.edu/students/careers/gradschool) to continue their studies and prepare for their career. Students should meet with advisors and faculty to build a strong application for graduate school through additional independent research or other co-curricular involvements.
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