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

Please note: Our department officially launched the Earth and Planetary Sciences major in Fall 2026. This is our new undergraduate degree program. The Geology major is no longer accepting new students, but the Geology page remains available through the menu for reference.

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. 

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Earth and Planetary Sciences Major

Bachelor of Science in Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS)

Explore EPS Major
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Marine and Coastal Science Major

Bachelor of Science in Marine and Coastal Science (MCS)

Explore MCS Degrees
Fractal leaves.

MAST

CalTeach / Mathematics and Science Teaching

Prepare yourself for a career in mathematics and science education

Learn more
Trilobites.

Minors

Geology Minor

Available in Geology, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Oceanography, Paleobiology

Learn more
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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. 

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Tessa Hill Selected for AGU Local Science Partners 2026 Cohort

Professor Tessa Hill has been selected to join the 2026 cohort of the American Geophysical Union’s (AGU) Local Science Partners Program, a national initiative that strengthens the role of science in public decision-making. Chosen from a highly competitive applicant pool...READ MORE
A researcher in a lab coat and safety glasses operates a complex setup of lab equipment.

Investigating Carbon Cycling in Tropical Mangrove Estuaries

Anchored in Cameroon’s Wouri Estuary, where rivers, tides, and ships converge, Claris Sunjo leans over the side of her boat. She’s twenty-four hours into collecting water from a tidal creek, a narrow channel connected to the Wouri Estuary system, asking a question scientists...READ MORE
Amanda Thomas headshot

meet

Amanda Thomas

I study tectonic, volcanic, and surface processes, integrating data collection, analysis, interpretation, and simplified numerical modeling to understand Earth's complex physical systems, and predict and respond to geohazards.

i am a geophysicist.
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.