UC Davis Earth and Planetary Sciences

Our Vision and Mission Statement

Together we create and share knowledge at the forefront of Earth and Planetary Sciences to cultivate informed stewardship and inspire curiosity.

We provide a world-class, stimulating intellectual and educational environment that prioritizes people. As a community we are committed to conducting cutting-edge research in Earth and Planetary Sciences to address challenging scientific and societal problems.

View our Strategic Plan

Majors and Programs

Explore the majors and programs offered by the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences below.

GEL

Geology Major

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees

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MCS

Marine and Coastal Science Major

Bachelor of Science

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MAST

CalTeach / Mathematics and Science Teaching

Prepare yourself for a career in mathematics and science education

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Minors

Geology Minor

Available in Geology, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Oceanography, Paleobiology

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Grad school

Applying to Grad School

Graduate school in the geosciences may be a good choice for your career. How do you decide if it’s right for you?

Where to start

Department News

Check out the latest news, research, and announcements from the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences below.

Susann Pinter stands behind display of crochet marine life

From Yarn to Oceans: Susann Pinter’s “Project Ecosystem” Lands a Spot at GSA Connects

When Susann Pinter’s crochet exhibit “Project Ecosystem” debuted on Picnic Day at UC Davis earlier this year, it mesmerized thousands with its intricate and unique depiction of marine life and ecosystems. This week, Ms. Pinter, the Academic Coordinator for...READ MORE

Tessa Hill presents to visitors seated around.

Professor Tessa Hill Highlights How Seagrass Meadows Can Combat Climate Change

During a recent Davis Science Café, Professor Tessa Hill of UC Davis Earth and Planetary Sciences highlighted that seagrass meadows play a crucial role in storing carbon, thereby protecting oceans from increased acidification and bolstering marine life resilience...READ MORE

Magali Billen smiling in front of flowers

Magali Billen Appointed Chair of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences

Following three years of dedicated leadership, Professor Kari Cooper is stepping down from her position as Chair of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UC Davis. Assuming the position is Professor Magali Billen who has spent two decades in the department...READ MORE

Water emitting steam in the middle of a mountainous landscape

Inside the Volcanic Research of Anjelica Guerrier and Dr. Kari Cooper

Anjelica Guerrier, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, working under Dr. Kari Cooper, dive into the cryptic world of magma chambers. Through meticulous analysis of erupted volcanic rocks and and crystals, they aim to shed...READ MORE

meet

David Gold

I was trained as a biologist, but I have always had a keen interest in the fossil record. Over time I have found that the information hidden in DNA can help address debates that have vexed paleontology and geochemistry.

i am a molecular paleontologist.

meet

Isabel Montañez

I study ancient climates and how the Earth responded to climate change. Our study of ancient climates provides insight into how rainfall patterns, surface temperatures, and ecosystems will respond to future warming.

i am a paleoclimatologist.