GEOLOGY/Earth Science (GEOL)

Earth Science addresses rocks volcanoes glaciers landslides earthquakes oceans and atmosphere etc. all in the context of the relatively new theory of plate tectonics describing how the Earth works. The geology of California is special since we live on the active San Andreas transform plate boundary (hence the earthquakes) which evolved from the previously existing subduction zone plate boundary (responsible for the California Coast Ranges Cascade volcanic range and the Sierra Nevada).

Our mission includes:

1. 1. Preparing students for transfer to four year institutions and careers in the Earth Sciences. 
   2. Stimulating public curiosity about how the Earth works (earthquakes volcanoes tsunami s hurricanes etc.) and why California is such a geologically interesting and special place.
   3. Providing research opportunities that are not available anywhere else.