The core of the Environmental Earth and Soil Sciences curriculum is composed of geology, soil science, and basic science courses and is strengthened by a diverse array of related topical and technical specialties, which include: climate change studies, environmental mitigation strategies, environmental policy and management, forest and environmental practices, geospatial technology, hydrology, soil geotechnical studies, sustainable agriculture, and urban forestry.

The Environmental Earth and Soil Sciences major provides detailed and thorough training in the natural and cultural processes that govern the relationship between humans and their habitats. The program also furnishes students with the marketable expertise to assess, manage, repair, and improve this fragile relationship while acquiring a well-rounded education in the natural sciences. In addition, majors can meet the educational requirements for professional certification in a number of areas (e.g. erosion and sediment control, hydrology, soil conservation, soil science) and find their training ideal for graduate school preparation in a number of related disciplines.

Due to the multidisciplinary nature of the Environmental Earth and Soil Sciences major, students have access to diverse faculty and laboratories in several colleges on campus. California's Central Coast offers a diverse environmental and cultural setting for real-world training and experiences in earth sciences.

Undergraduate students majoring in Environmental Earth and Soil Sciences earn the credentials for useful careers in resource assessment and administration. They graduate with a substantial and well rounded education in the natural sciences. Moreover, Environmental Earth and Soil Sciences graduates possess the understanding, flexibility, and tools to appreciate and adapt to a changing world and its employment opportunities.