The MS program in engineering geology at San José State University is characterized by three major components: 1) a quality, broadly based education in the many facets of geology, 2) field experience, and 3) communication skills (oral and written). The University is ideally located for the study of many elements of Engineering Geology because it is only 10 miles from the active San Andreas fault, 20 miles from the dynamic Pacific coastline, adjacent to the tectonically active Coast Ranges of California, and within the Santa Clara Valley ("Silicon Valley") at the southern end of San Francisco Bay. Many of the problems with which engineering geologists are challenged are easily visited and studied. Topics which have formed the bases for studies by faculty and students of the Department include: coastal erosion, fault activity evaluation, rock and soil slope stability, liquefaction, groundwater contamination, and effective land use planning. Because of the proximity of such organizations as the U.S. Geological Survey, Menlo Park, many large and small private consulting firms, and other major universities, numerous opportunities for personal and professional interaction and cooperative investigation exist.

      Faculty involved in elements of engineering geology (engineering geology, hydrogeology, applied geophysics, remote sensing, and geomorphology) include: