Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
Degrees and Programs
We offer multiple degree programs to fit the unique needs and interests of students in Earth & Environmental Sciences. Read more below about the degree programs offered in the Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences. We have also included some related programs that are not administered through our department that may also be of interest.
Undergraduate Degrees
The Bachelor of Science in Geology prepares students for employment in geo-hazard reduction and resource exploration, protection, or exploitation. Geologists participate in finding, conserving, and/or responsibly acquiring critical resources such as surface- and ground- water, petroleum, lithium, gold, stone, and much more. Geologists are trained to understand, plan for, forecast, and mitigate the effects of disastrous events like floods, landslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions as well as reconstruct earth history using things like fossils or radioactive isotopes. This degree satisfies the education requirement for the California Professional Geologist (PG) license. Most of our geology graduates work in surface- and ground- water protection and supply management.
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences offers an interdisciplinary approach to the natural sciences with an emphasis on biology, chemistry, and geology. This degree is designed for students interested in areas such as pollution abatement, water quality, water resources, ecosystem protection, environmental restoration, sustainability, and/or environmental management. Although California does not administer a license for Environmental Scientists, graduates will be qualified for a wide range of careers given the broad nature of environmental sciences. Most of our environmental science graduates work at environmental consulting firms or state agencies.
The Bachelor of Arts in Natural Sciences - Earth Science Option serves to establish subject matter competency through coursework as approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), which waives the California Subject Exam for Teachers (CSET), and streamlines the process for students to enter the Geoscience Single Subject Teaching Credential program. This degree program is primarily designed for students who plan to become middle or high school science teachers, specifically teaching geology and/or environmental science.
Minors
The Geology Minor gives students the opportunity to gain recognized expertise in geology to supplement their major course of studies. The 20-unit curriculum is determined in consultation with an advisor and its flexibility allows the student some focus on area(s) of interest. The geology minor is especially beneficial to civil and geotechnical engineers, construction managers, soil scientists, and agriculture majors, among others.
The Water Minor gives students the opportunity to gain recognized expertise in water-related topics to supplement their major course of studies. This minor was designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to address the Central Valley's ongoing water issues (ABC30 News). The 18-unit interdisciplinary curriculum allows students to determine which courses to take based on special interests.
Graduate Degrees
The Master of Science in Geology expands upon the B.S. in Geology or provides the opportunity to change careers from any other field. The M.S. in Geology reduces the length of work experience needed to qualify for California’s Professional Geologist (PG) license. The degree allows specialization in one or more geoscience subdisciplines and is a typical degree for project management in industry. Our applied geology option specializes in engineering geology, hydrogeology, or exploration geology fields, which have the strongest employment potential. A Master's degree is required for teaching at junior college and can serve as a stepping stone to Ph.D. study. Information for Prospective Students Geology Graduate Student Handbook for current students
The Master of Science in Water Resource Management is an online degree program offered through the Division of Continuing and Global Education. Water is one of the world's most valuable resources and the sustainable management of its supply is absolutely crucial to society. This program is designed to meet the growing demand for advanced knowledge in water resources and usage in the urban, industrial, and agricultural environment. The degree includes political and policy aspects of water use as well as an understanding of the economics involved. A Master's degree is required for teaching at junior college and can serve as a stepping stone to Ph.D. study.
Learn more about the Water Resource Management, M.S.
Certificates (not administered through this Department)
The Certificate of Advanced Study in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is an online program offered through the Division of Continuing and Global Education. This 12-unit curriculum teaches students to use digital technology to assist in the evaluation of spatial information and data. GIS professionals acquire, manage, analyze, visualize, and represent geospatial data, or information related to geographical locations. The knowledge and skills acquired for this Certificate will make graduates more competitive in the modern job market. Contact the Division of Continuing and Global Education for more information.
Learn more about the Geographic Info Systems Certificate
The purpose of the Environmental Planning, Certificate of Special Study is to train students to understand environmental issues and address environmental problems, with a body of knowledge that integrates physical environment and human societies. It will also prepare students to investigate, and address, environmental problems in a systematic manner, in conjunction with their particular field of study. This certificate consists of 12 earned units. Contact the Division of Continuing and Global Education for more information.
Fresno State's Division of Continuing and Global Education has a partnership with the American Water College to offer many online Certificates for water and utility specialists. Students can receive Fresno State professional development credit and certificates of completion in the following: Certificate in Water Treatment Technology, Certificate in Water Transmission Technology, Certificate in Water Treatment and Transmission Technology, and Certificate in Effective Utility Management. Contact the Division of Continuing and Global Education for more information.