Set-off on an unforgettable adventure with Professor Dahlquist, Asst. Professor of Geology, to learn about the geological evolution of the West Coast, the Sierra Nevada, the Basin and Range, the San Andreas Fault, the Southern Cascades, and the Coast Ranges.

 

Quick Facts

 

Where:  California: West Coast, the Sierra Nevada, the Basin and Range, the San Andreas Fault, the Southern Cascades, and the Coast Ranges.

When: May 12, 2027 - June 3, 2027

Who: Everyone is Welcome! Student do not need to be Geology majors to apply; the course is open to any student interested in earth or environmental science. 

What: Sewanee's Domain and the Southern Appalachians host a fantastic variety of geological sites, but by exploring the West Coast, students can experience landscapes and geologic features absent in our particular neighborhood and round out their education as geo- and environmental scientists. In Geology of the Western United States, we will visit landscapes bounded by active tectonics and shaped by desert processes. We will investigate emergent coastlines and volcanoes, young mountains and old growth forests. The sites we visit will be contextualized with readings and discussion of scientific literature and current issues, and works of cultural importance. Students will collect and analyze field data in some locations. Intended to be for more than just geology majors, Western Geology can open new perspectives on the physical environment of the United States to any students interested in earth or environmental science. 

Cost: $3,700* (Non-Sewanee students pay a $500 deposit in addition to this $3700) Deposit Link

Trip Leader: Max Dahlquist, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Geology for the University of the South

Contact for Additional Information: global@sewanee.edu

How to Apply: Set up an account and apply through VIA

Program Overview

 

Academics

Students will earn the following class credit:

  • GEOL 323     Geology of the Western United States Field Trip  (4 credits) - Taught by Max Dahlquist

This three-week travel course around California focuses on the geological evolution of the West Cost, thte Sierra Nevada, the Basin and Range, the San Andreas Fault, the Southern Cascades, and the Coast Ranges. Additional focus is placed on geologic issues and society, and the impact of geology on the living environment. It will involve some collection and analysis of field data and extensive use of geologic maps and periodicals. Prerequisite: Only open to students who have completed GEOL 121 and been admitted to the Geology of the Western U.S. Field Trip program. 

Housing

Participants will stay at established campsites, rent camping gear or staying in bunkhouses/cabins. 

Student Support
  • Airport pick-up
  • On-site orientation
  • 24/7 emergency support
  • Crisis-management preparedness
  • Fully-trained on-site staff
2027 Program Itinerary