Rocks, soil, minerals, fossils, oceans, earthquakes, volcanoes, climate change-the Department of Geology specializes in increasing students' understanding of the Earth and its geological features. We offer general education courses, K-12 teacher training and professional development, a rigorous, integrated undergraduate curriculum and graduate courses and research. Our bachelor's degree program in geology prepares students for graduate study in the geosciences as well as for entry-level positions in geological and environmental consulting firms, regulatory agencies and other employment settings. Our bachelor's program in earth science is designed to help students master the content needed for successful completion of the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing's California Subject Examinations for Teachers, and provides a career path for students interested in becoming secondary school teachers. Our master's degree program particularly emphasizes the study of applied geology, surface processes, and tectonics, enabling graduates to advance to Ph.D programs and to secure jobs as geologists, engineering geologists, hydrogeologists, geophysicists and environmental managers.<br><br>The B.A. in Earth Science provides a broad background in the Earth Sciences. It is a path for students planning on teaching science in middle schools and high schools, or who are interested in interdisciplinary fields such as environmental and sustainability issues.<br><br>This degree provides a foundation for taking the relevant California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET), which​ is required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to verify subject matter competency in the Earth and Space Sciences. Students interested in becoming teachers must meet credential program standards and undergo screening for admission. See SJSU's Secondary Education homepage for information on application and admission to credential programs.