Geobiology
The Geobiology Bachelor of Science program at the University of Caltech provides an interdisciplinary education focused on understanding the interactions between life and Earth’s geological processes over time. The curriculum equips students with foundational knowledge in earth sciences, microbiology, chemistry, and planetary systems, offering insight into how biological and geological forces shape one another. Through lectures, laboratory work, and field-based research, learners develop the ability to interpret environmental data with technical precision, analyze biogeochemical cycles, and investigate how life has evolved in response to Earth’s changing conditions. This structure supports a deep scientific understanding of the co-evolution of life and the planet.
Students also benefit from Caltech’s research-driven environment, where geobiology intersects with geology, geochemistry, environmental science, and microbiology. Access to field sites, modern laboratories, and advanced analytical tools enables learners to study microbial communities, sedimentary records, mineral–microbe interactions, and ancient environmental systems. Working with faculty engaged in cutting-edge Earth and planetary research helps students explore biospheric systems from both modern and deep-time perspectives. This interdisciplinary training prepares graduates to investigate fundamental questions about planetary habitability, climate evolution, and the origins of life.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Geobiology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: California Institute of Technology (Caltech), United States
- Field of Study: Geography
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Earth & Life Sciences
- Introduction to Earth Sciences
- General Biology and Laboratory
- General Chemistry
- Scientific Writing and Research Skills
Year 2 – Core Geobiological Processes
- Microbial Ecology and Evolution
- Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
- Geochemistry and Biogeochemical Cycles
- Quantitative Methods for Environmental Science
Year 3 – Applied Geobiological Research
- Paleobiology and Fossil Record Interpretation
- Mineral–Microbe Interactions
- Electives in Planetary Science, Environmental Chemistry, or Ecology
- Field Methods and Applied Geobiology Laboratory
Year 4 – Advanced Study & Capstone Research
- Earth History and Environmental Change
- Senior Research Project or Thesis
- Analytical Techniques in Geobiology
- Academic Presentation and Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program develop strong analytical, observational, and research skills that prepare them for a wide range of careers across environmental, geological, and scientific sectors. Many begin professional roles in environmental consulting firms, geoscience research organizations, energy and resource companies, and government agencies, contributing to projects involving environmental assessment, climate studies, resource exploration, and biogeochemical analysis. Their interdisciplinary background allows them to work on microbial ecology, sedimentary research, paleobiology studies, and Earth history investigations. Additional opportunities exist in planetary science institutes, museums, conservation organizations, and laboratories focused on environmental change or astrobiology. For students interested in advanced study, the program offers excellent preparation for master’s or doctoral degrees in geobiology, geology, earth sciences, or environmental science, supporting future careers in academia, field research, and scientific leadership.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to explore the intersection of biology and geology while developing advanced scientific insight into Earth’s dynamic systems. The University of Caltech provides a research-rich environment supported by expert faculty guidance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to field and laboratory resources that deepen students’ understanding of life–Earth interactions. Students gain valuable experience through fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and data-driven investigations that mirror real-world scientific challenges. The flexible curriculum allows learners to specialize in areas such as environmental geochemistry, microbial evolution, paleobiology, or planetary habitability. With its emphasis on scientific precision, interdisciplinary depth, and analytical reasoning, the program prepares graduates for impactful scientific careers or advanced academic study in geobiological fields.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 626 395 3000
Email: admissions@caltech.edu
Address: University of Caltech, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States
