地球科学包括对地球及其生命形式的起源和演变的广泛科学研究。地球科学专业涵盖了广泛的主题，包括我们星球的物理和化学演化，生命的演化，地震和火山爆发的成因，近地表过程，海洋和大气的起源和行为，以及人类对环境的影响。地球科学的研究越来越具有定量和实验性，因此大多数高年级课程都要求在化学，物理和数学上有扎实的基础。地球科学课程充分利用了斯克里普斯海洋学研究所提供的独特机会。入门级以外的课程通常很小，可以进行个性化指导。实地考察是教学计划的重要组成部分。鼓励地球科学专业的学生就其斯克里普斯海洋学研究所的适当课程和研
The Honors Program at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is offered for a limited number of students who have demonstrated excellence in the earth sciences major or the marine biology major. The earth sciences encompass broad scientific study of the origin and evolution of the Earth and its life forms. The earth sciences major embraces a wide range of topics, including the physical and chemical evolution of our planet, the evolution of life, the causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, near-surface processes, the origin and behavior of the oceans and atmosphere, and the impact of humans on the environment. Earth science investigations are increasingly quantitative and experimental, and thus most upper-division courses require a strong foundation in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The earth sciences curriculum takes advantage of the unique opportunities offered by Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Classes beyond the introductory level are usually small, permitting personalized instruction. Field trips are an important part of the instructional program. Earth sciences students are encouraged to consult with their instructors about incorporating appropriate courses and research opportunities at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography into their undergraduate curriculum. A degree in earth sciences is an appropriate start for a broad range of career and graduate school opportunities in various areas, including research, government, state and federal survey jobs, environmental management, the petroleum and mining industries, consulting, ocean sciences, industrial institutions, elementary or secondary education, environmental policy, or environmental law. Program advisers and faculty can provide additional information on career and graduate school opportunities. This flexibility in the major is afforded by a wide array of restricted electives that allow students a degree of autonomy to design much of their program. Career-track examples with restricted electives and faculty advising are provided to assist students in their optimal career-development track within the flexible curriculum.