Overview
The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences currently offers three undergraduate degree programs: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees in Geology, Earth Sciences, and Geophysics. In addition, we offer Minor options in Geology, Geophysics and Global Climate Change.
Earth Science degrees cover all scientific studies related to the planet Earth, including the study of Earth composition, structure, processes, and history.
The degree programs include the study of the organisms that inhabit our planet, how natural hazards affect society, and the past, present and future of climate change. Our B.S. programs in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences place substantial emphasis on preparing students for graduate study and a wide range of rewarding careers. The B.A. degree, on the other hand, is designed for students who wish to teach general science or earth science at a secondary school level, and combines training in general science and pedagogy with concentrated study in general geology.
Earth and Planetary Sciences Advising
Click on the drop-menus below for more information and documents related to the Earth Sciences majors.
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Change of Major Criteria
Click on the link below to see what courses you need to have completed to be eligible to declare the Earth and Planetary Sciences majors:
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Course Planning Documents
Earth and Planetary Sciences Additional Documents
- Earth and Planetary Sciences Brochure - The Major at a Glance
- Earth and Planetary Science Degree Requirements in the UCR Catalog
- Special Studies or Senior Thesis Request Form
Earth and Planetary Sciences Degree Summary Sheets
- Earth and Planetary Sciences Major - Climate Change Option
- Earth and Planetary Sciences Major - Geobiology Option
- Earth and Planetary Sciences Major - Geophysics Option
- Earth and Planetary Sciences Major - Geosystems Option
- Geology Major
- Geophysics Major
Earth and Planetary Sciences Sample Four-Year Course Plans
Earth and Planetary Sciences Schedule of Course Offerings
Earth and Planetary Sciences Academic Advisor
CNAS Professional Academic Advisors provide students with individual guidance throughout their academic careers at UCR and help them achieve realistic academic goals. Professional Academic Advisors can assist you with declaring or changing your major or minor, course repeats, the process for taking courses outside of UCR, taking a leave from UCR, and questions about withdrawing or readmitting to UCR.
Earth and Planetary Sciences Lead Faculty Advisor
A Lead Faculty Advisor is assigned for each major. Faculty advisors are available to assist students with guidance regarding graduate or professional school, opportunities to participate in research, independent study, or internships. Faculty advisors also may provide students with advice and mentoring regarding career goals.
