The Earth Sciences/Geophysics Major

This specialization focuses on the mechanical, dynamical, and thermodynamical aspects of the Earth. Emphasis is placed on a solid background of fundamental physics, from mechanics and electromagnetism to continuum- and quantum mechanics, and on the necessary mathematical skills. The major introduces basic techniques used to investigate the internal structure of the Earth, from seismology to the study of potential fields, and space geodesy. Elementary geodynamics, including the physics of simple convective systems, introductory rock mechanics, and plate kinematics are among topics introduced. At the same time, a hands on exposure to field problems and techniques will be accessible through an Applied Geophysics sequence.

Lower-division Requirements

Math 20A-B-C-D-E-F
Physics 4A-B-C-D or Physics 2A-B-C (Physics 4 sequence recommended)
Chemistry 6A-B-C
Biology 3
ERTH 50

Earth Science Upper-Division Core Requirements

ERTH 100. Introduction to Field Methods
ERTH 102. Introduction to Geochemistry
ERTH 103. Introduction to Geophysics
ERTH 104. Geobiology

Upper-Division Earth Sciences Requirements

ERTH 130. Geodynamics of Terrestrial Planets or ERTH 160. Introduction to Tectonics
ERTH 182A-B. Applied Geophysics

Upper-Division Physics Requirements

Physics 100A-B-C. Electromagnetism
Physics 110A-B. Mechanics

Physics restricted electives: at least one course from:

Physics 105A. Mathematical and Computational Physics
Physics 121. Experimental Techniques
Physics 140A-B. Statistical and Thermal Physics
MAE 131A. Solid Mechanics I
MAE 180A. Space Science and Engineering

Upper-Division Restricted electives: at least two courses from:

ERTH 105. Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
ERTH 110. Introduction to GIS for Earth and Environmental Scientists
ERTH 112. Urban Landscapes
ERTH 120. Mineralogy
ERTH 130. Geodynamics of Terrestrial Planets
ERTH 135. Satellite Remote Sensing
ERTH 142. Atmospheric Chemistry and Biochemical Cycles
ERTH 144. Introduction to Isotope Chemistry
ERTH 152. Petrology and Petrography
ERTH 155. Petrology and Geochemistry of the Solid Earth
ERTH 160. Introduction to Tectonics
ERTH 162. Structural Geology
ERTH 170. Introduction to Volcanology (summer session)
ERTH 185. Applied Complexity
ERTH 195. Methods of Teaching Earth Sciences
ERTH 197. Earth Science Internship
ERTH 198. Directed Group Study
ERTH 199. Independent Study
SIO 223. Geophysical Data Analysis
SIO 226. Introduction to Marine Geophysics
SIO 227A. Introduction to Seismology
SIO 250. Earth History

An example schedule is outlined below.