The 2025-2026 Graduate Admissions Application is now open! Learn more about how to apply to the Graduate Program in Earth and Planetary Sciences.

"Earth and Planetary Sciences" text placed on top of a decorative photo collage of the five main UC Davis EPS research disciplines.

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.  

Rockhammer

GEL

Geology Major

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees

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Brown coral.

MCS

Marine and Coastal Science Major

Bachelor of Science

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Fractal leaves.

MAST

CalTeach / Mathematics and Science Teaching

Prepare yourself for a career in mathematics and science education

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Trilobites.

Minors

Geology Minor

Available in Geology, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Oceanography, Paleobiology

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Geoscientist outdoors

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. 

Chijun Sun

UC Davis Researcher Returns After Trip Aboard Scientific Drilling Vessel

On March 11, 2011, a 9.1 magnitude earthquake hit just off the northeast coast of Honshu, the most populated island of Japan. The seismic event triggered a tsunami with a wave height of more than 130 feet. The natural disaster left more than 18,000 people dead. According to the U.S. Geological Survey,...READ MORE
David Gold

Molecular Paleontology

Looking at a jellyfish is like looking into the ancient past. Survivors from the late Precambrian Era, these organisms lived in an environment completely alien to the wide swath of modern Earth. They thrived during a time when the waters of our planet were largely anoxic, the lack of oxygen making them...READ MORE
Fossils in lobby

Discover the Giants of the Past: New Fossils Unveiled at UC Davis!

The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences is excited to announce the installation of our stunning T-Rex fossil head in the lobby of the Earth and Physical Sciences building! This remarkable replica, cast from the famous "Black Beauty" fossil at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, was made possible...READ MORE
Davis A. Gold

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.
Isabel Montanez in her lab sitting at a table doing research.

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.