Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Earth Sciences?

Enjoying small class sizes and ample opportunities for undergraduate research experiences, Earth sciences majors choose from four tracks: Geology, Environmental Geoscience, Geophysics, or Paleontology.

Students doing analysis outside

Major in Earth Sciences

Earth science is an unusually broad subject. It addresses everything from the chemical processes that make rocks and minerals to the physics behind plate tectonics and the travel of earthquake shock waves through the planet. It explores the history of the evolution of life revealed in fossils, and it probes the earth processes that affect how humans can survive on the surface of the planet. To address this breadth, the department offers four curricular tracks for a major in Earth sciences.

Our Majors:


Students working no project

Minor in Earth Sciences

An Earth sciences minor can complement a variety of degrees. Students with majors in other departments who want a minor in geological sciences can earn a minor through the Department of Earth Sciences.

Minor Requirements


UO Ducks and Earth Science student at the exhibition

Honors in Earth Sciences

Earn an honors degree in Earth sciences and gain a competitive edge in your chosen career field.


Students digging up site

Real-World Experience

Earth sciences majors can develop their skills through a variety of experiential learning opportunities, from faculty-guided research to field camps in the wildlands of Oregon and the broader American west.


Student working on machinery

What You Can Do with an Earth Sciences Degree

An Earth sciences major can prepare you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and actual alumni jobs.


Earth Science geology club members photo

Geology Club

We encourage our majors to get involved in campus life as much as possible, and one option for UO students interested in geology is our Geology Club. Open to both Earth Sciences non-majors and majors, it’s a great place to broaden your experience, make connections, and build community!


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with an advisor and get your questions answered. 

Departmental Advising and Support

Scholarships and Awards

Explore ways to fund your studies in the Department of Earth Sciences.

Scholarships and Awards


Events

UO Cinema Studies Alumni Gathering: Los Angeles
Aug17
UO Cinema Studies Alumni Gathering: Los Angeles Aug 17 Everson Royce Bar
Graduate Student Welcome Lunch and Resource Fair
Sep23
Graduate Student Welcome Lunch and Resource Fair Sep 23 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Grad Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event
Oct23
Grad Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event Oct 23
What is Research? (2026)
Apr23
What is Research? (2026) Apr 23 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2026)
Apr24
What is Research? (2026) Apr 24 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2026)
Apr25
What is Research? (2026) Apr 25 University of Oregon Portland