University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in core geological principles while allowing specialisation through elective modules and independent research. Core themes typically include sedimentology and stratigraphy, structural geology and tectonics, mineralogy and petrology, geochemistry, geophysics, hydrogeology and palaeontology. Students also gain practical skills in field methods, mapping, geologic data collection, laboratory techniques and quantitative analysis.

• Field courses and field methods: multi-day field trips to coastal, desert and mountain outcrops to practise mapping, stratigraphic logging and sample collection.
• Laboratory techniques: petrographic microscopy, X-ray diffraction, geochemical analyses and sedimentary facies characterisation.
• Geospatial and quantitative skills: GIS, remote sensing, geostatistics and data visualisation tools applied to geological problems.
• Specialist options: students can usually select advanced topics such as environmental geology, petroleum geology, volcanology, tectonics, groundwater modelling or applied geophysics depending on faculty expertise.
• Thesis or project: the programme typically offers a research thesis or applied project route, supervised by faculty, enabling students to develop independent research, reporting and presentation skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree in geology, earth sciences or a closely related field. Applicants with strong quantitative skills and coursework in physics, chemistry and mathematics will be well prepared. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, academic references and a curriculum vitae.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency to the university's standard. Where required, applicants without a formal geology background may be offered conditional admission with prescribed prerequisite coursework or bridge modules to bring them up to speed.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles in the public and private sectors. Common career pathways include environmental and engineering geology, hydrogeology and water-resources management, geotechnical consulting, natural hazard assessment, mineral and energy exploration, and roles in environmental compliance and remediation. Others move into GIS and remote sensing positions, research posts or continue to doctoral study and academic careers. The programme’s emphasis on practical skills and field experience also supports work with government agencies, non-governmental organisations and industry consulting firms.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a personalised learning environment with close faculty supervision and access to well-equipped laboratories and field resources. Its location in Southern California provides ready access to a wide range of geological settings—from coastal cliffs and marine terraces to desert exposures and active tectonic features—enabling rich fieldwork opportunities. The department often emphasises applied research and collaboration with regional agencies and industry, supporting internships and professional connections that help students transition to employment or further research. Small cohort sizes and interdisciplinary links across environmental sciences, engineering and policy enhance training for real-world geoscience challenges.