UNDERGRADUATE FIELD PROGRAM

Many courses offered by the Earth and Planetary Sciences departement involve some degree field work--Structural Geology, Hydrology, Paleomagnetism, Glaciology, and Sedimentology just to name a few. To earn a Bachelors of Science degree in the the geology pathway, undergraduate students can choose to take full advantage of the available field-oriented courses, including three intensive field courses: Elements of Field Geology, and Summer Field Internship A & B.

The Elements of Field Geology (EART109) course introduces the basic tools and techniques used in geologic fieldwork. In class, students learn how to prepare, analyze, and interpret geologic maps. In the lab, they learn to use such important "tools of the trade" as topographic maps, and Brunton compasses, as well as honing their skills in rock identification and description, creating structure sections, and landslide recognition. All of these skills are solidified during several weekend field trips which culminate in the individual construction of geologic maps.

The Summer Field Internship (EART188A) includes three weeks of field study in geologically complex regions of the White-Inyo Mountains of eastern California. Students use skills acquired in EART109 to accomplish geologic field mapping on topographic and photographic base maps, stratigraphy, petrology, and structure analysis. The students then return for one week of research, lab and office work (EART188B) in order to prepare a formal written report, maps, and analyses for course 188A field sites. During this time, they engage in library research, drafting of maps and cross sections, stereonet plotting, and scientific writing.

Summer Field Internship (EART188A & 188B) Website