The faculty and students in the School of Earth Sciences investigate the history of our planet, its material structure and resources, and the processes that have driven its evolution and continue to shape our environments. The School of Earth Sciences offers two undergraduate degree programs, the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Science (BS).

The BA in Earth Sciences is a broad geological program generally designed for students interested in preparing for careers in high school science teaching, law school, medical school, business school or technical writing.

The BS in Earth Sciences is designed to offer a comprehensive undergraduate background in the earth sciences, complemented by a broad understanding in science and mathematics. We prepare our BS majors through a core curriculum for careers as professional earth scientists in industry, government, or academia. During a student’s third year as a major, BS students declare a certificate program, minor, or double major. There are three specializations within the BS in Earth Sciences:

• Geological Sciences
• Geophysics
• Climate, Water and the Environment

Why choose earth sciences?

Earth Science students pursue authentic research with faculty mentors, participate in field research worldwide, and make genuine contributions to the body of knowledge about our planet and solar system.

What can you do with this degree?

Find challenging careers in government, industry and academia. Jobs are abundant in the oil and gas industry, mining, water resources and environmental consulting. Careers in data management and analysis, governmental research and regulation, law, military, law enforcement and national security, resources management and conservation, remote sensing, technical writing and communication, and urban and regional planning are also common.