Geology examines our natural world, studying problems that range in scale from a single mineral grain to the entire solar system. Dealing with this complex natural system is an intrinsically interdisciplinary endeavor, so geology draws upon the tools of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geography, and environmental science.  Geologists are employed in many fields, from environmental consultant to NASA scientist, and work on a wide range of problems such as earthquake prediction, groundwater pollution, climate change, resource development, the origin and evolution of life, the formation of continents and oceans, and history of the earth’s magnetic field.  Students at Occidental have the opportunity to learn about these and many other topics through classes, labs, and field experiences.