Thus, geobiology encompasses the fields of paleobiology and paleontology, biogeochemistry, geomicrobiology, and astrobiology. The degree program provides students with a strong background in general science and especially in geosciences and biology, with core selections from both disciplines. Students gain practical field experience in the study of the physical environment and ecological properties. The senior thesis provides students with hands-on research experience, as well as an emphasis on data synthesis and the written expression of scientific observations and ideas. Students will be well prepared for advanced studies in this emerging discipline, and for careers in the environmental sciences. Geobiology is critical to the study of environmental quality, global change, and environmental-human health interactions, all of which have profound importance in legal, economic, and policy arenas.

Geobiology is the study of the interactions that occur between the biosphere (living organisms and their products) and the geosphere (solid part of the Earth). Geobiologists apply the principles and tools of biology to study the Earth and construct a picture of life through time. Geobiologists search for clues of how changes to the Earth in the past, such as periods of increased carbon dioxide or decreased temperature, have affected life on Earth and vice versa.