Bachelor of Science - Geology

Geology is the study of the materials, structures, processes, and history of the Earth. It advances the understanding of the formation of rocks and minerals and how they can be used to reconstruct the history of the Earth's biological, climatic, and tectonic evolution across the enormity of geologic time. 

Sonoma State University department is committed to undergraduate training that includes a well-balanced treatment of geologic principles and an emphasis on field studies. Students take a fundamental curriculum that concentrates on the analysis of rocks and minerals, earth surface processes, earth history and evolution, geophysical and GIS analysis, structural deformation, and geologic mapping.

The curriculum emphasizes field-based observation and inquiry. Core courses include Advanced Principles of Geology, Mineralogy, Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, Sedimentary Geology, Structural Geology, Paleontology, and Hydrology. Information on specific courses is available in the University Catalog or through the Department Administrative Coordinator. Students may choose from major programs that lead to either the BA or BS professional degrees.