Geology University of California, Riverside

Overview

The Geology programme at the University of California, Riverside is a professional degree track designed to meet the rigorous curriculum requirements for state accreditation. This comprehensive course provides a robust foundation for students aiming to pursue careers in research, teaching, or professional practice within the geological sciences.

The curriculum places a significant emphasis on practical experience, utilising the unique "natural laboratory" of Southern California. Students explore the physical structure, processes, and history of the planet while learning how natural hazards impact modern society. The department fosters a close-knit community where undergraduates benefit from the resources of a major research institution alongside personalised faculty mentoring.

Why Geology at the University of California, Riverside?

Students benefit from the university's prime location, which allows for frequent field trips to sites such as the Mojave Desert, the Calico Mountains, and the San Bernardino Mountains. These excursions provide hands-on experience in mapping sedimentary strata and collecting fossils. The department also hosts the Earth and Planetary Sciences Research Museum, offering unique resources for geological study.

The programme includes a dedicated faculty mentoring system where each student is paired with a PhD mentor to guide their career goals and research interests. Additionally, the Geology Student Organisation (GSO) provides a platform for peer networking and student-led field expeditions. For those interested in global perspectives, the Education Abroad Programme allows students to earn credit at international partner universities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 52536 per year
• National fee: USD 52536 per year
• Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum culminates in a mandatory summer field class where students apply their technical skills in a professional setting. Modules may include:

• Earth's Climate Through Time
• Natural Hazards and Disasters
• Earthquake Country
• Field Geology
• Numerical Skills in Geoscience
• Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• Molecular and Petroleum Geochemistry
• Applied and Exploration Geophysics
• Active Tectonics and Remote Sensing

Careers with Geology

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in industry, government, and academia. The programme specifically aligns with the requirements for becoming a licensed professional geologist in California. Common career paths for alumni include roles as environmental geologists, hydrologists, and engineering geologists.

Opportunities also exist in specialised sectors such as volcanology, palaeontology, and petroleum exploration. Many graduates find employment as environmental impact report writers, park rangers, or technical editors. The department supports career readiness through a weekly seminar that explores various professional pathways and assists with CV preparation and graduate school applications.