Earth Science - BS - Paleobiology Emphasis

Paleobiologists study Earth’s past life, using fossils to understand the biology and ecology of organisms long extinct, to reconstruct ancient ecosystems, and to study the patterns and processes of evolution in deep time. They also use fossils to unravel the evolution of the atmosphere, oceans and crust of our planet—including the configuration of ancient supercontinents, variation in past climates, and the effects humans have had on the environment. A sound knowledge of living organisms is key to paleobiology, making it the emphasis for students who love both biology and geology. Paleobiology provides you a >4-billion-year perspective on the history of life and our small role within it.

• Environmental Consulting: BS + often MS

• Teaching: BS, sometimes including up to PhD

• Government agencies

• Paleontology

• Evolutionary Biology

• Sundry non-paleo fields in Earth Science

• Consulting firms

• Elementary through University teaching (paleontologist are broadly trained)

• Government and museums

• We have multiple active paleontological researchers in the department

• We have a vibrant paleontological reading group for everyone from undergrads to professors

• Our graduates go onto myriad unexpected career paths, from becoming chefs to working for the USGS

• Geography

• Environmental Studies

• Ecology Evolution and Marine Biology

• Earth

• Fossils

• Earth and life history

• Preserving paleontological resources

https://www.geol.ucsb.edu

https://www.geol.ucsb.edu/education/undergrad

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1au9n2uFWbW0zvfX_gQrrGWdc6jSgLB0gaVKwZnF3HcQ/edit