Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences at San Francisco State University provides a comprehensive foundation in Earth's systems, preparing students for careers as geologists, hydrologists, or graduate studies in Earth science. With a focus on scientific principles, process understanding, communication, and societal applications, students specialize in Geology, Hydrology, or Oceans, Weather, and Climate, culminating in a senior project or undergraduate research experience. The program prepares for licensure as a professional geologist through ASBOG exam preparation.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences program at San Francisco State University is intended for students who wish to pursue careers in industry, government, or graduate school in fields such as geology, oceanography, and meteorology. The curriculum emphasizes a strong understanding of Earth's systems, including the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. The program provides students with a comprehensive foundation in Earth science principles, quantitative problem-solving, fieldwork, and effective communication skills.

Objectives:

The program aims to equip graduates with the following abilities:

• Scientific principles and methods:
• Apply the scientific method to solve Earth science problems.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret observations using appropriate field and laboratory equipment and data analysis software.
• Recognize uncertainty in observations and assess its implications.
• Interpret and critically evaluate scientific literature.
• Create and interpret graphical representations of data.
• Utilize mathematical representations of Earth systems.
• Process-level understanding:
• Demonstrate a qualitative understanding of processes driving major Earth systems.
• Demonstrate a quantitative understanding of processes specific to their emphasis area.
• Understand the varying temporal and spatial scales of Earth processes.
• Application to societal issues:
• Apply scientific principles and process understanding to interpret societal implications of anthropogenic and environmental change.
• Critically analyze scientific data and literature relevant to policy discussions in their emphasis area.
• Communication:
• Collaborate effectively with others.
• Communicate scientific information clearly and effectively in various formats (oral, visual, written).
• Accurately document data, evidence, and findings.

Careers:

The program prepares students for careers as professional geologists, hydrologists, or to pursue graduate studies in Earth science disciplines such as oceanography, meteorology, or climate science.

Other:

Students choose an emphasis area: Geology, Hydrology, or Oceans, Weather, and Climate. Each emphasis area has specific course requirements and electives to deepen their understanding within that field. The program includes a culminating experience, such as a senior project or undergraduate research, which provides students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem. The program is designed to prepare students to pass the Association of State Board Geology (ASBOG) exam for licensure as a professional geologist.