Jul 07, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Earth Science Major


The Earth Science major provides students with applied and theoretical knowledge of Earth’s physical environment including its geology, weather and climate, hydrology, and astronomical relationships and prepares them for geoscience careers. Earth scientists use field, laboratory, and computational methods to gather and interpret Earth systems data to improve our quality of life and provide targeted information for environmental problem solving, natural hazard monitoring and protection, and policy-making. By applying logic, reasoning, and knowledge of the forces that shape the earth, Earth scientists can reconstruct the past and anticipate the future. With an Earth Science degree, students will gain applied science knowledge through hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for professional careers in natural resource exploration, natural hazard mitigation, geotechnical assessment, environmental consulting, and geological research.

As a requirement for graduation, all Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences Department majors must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.25 for all courses constituting the major curriculum. Exceptions must be requested via petition to the department’s appeal committee.

For department information or additional degree requirements, go to the Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences  Department page.

For related information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geoscientists.htm

Total Credits Required 120 Credits


General Education 30-40 Credits


Required Courses in Major 50 Credits


Geology Elective

Choose one course from the following: 4 Credits

Concentration 16 Credits


Choose 16 credits from one of the following concentrations, with at least 8 credits at the 300-level or higher.

Air and Water Resources Concentration 16 Credits

Complete both of the following required courses: 8 Credits

Air and Water Resources Electives

Choose 8 credits from the following:

Applied Geology Concentration 16 Credits

 Complete the two courses not completed as part of Earth Science Core: 8 Credits

Applied Geology Electives

Choose 8 credits from the following:

Earth Systems Analysis Concentration 16 Credits

Required course: 4 Credits

Natural Hazards Concentration 16 Credits

Required course: 4 Credits

Notes:


This major does not require a minor.