Earth scientists study Earth’s interior and surface, its oceans, freshwaters and glaciers, its atmosphere and outer space, and their interactions with each other and with the biosphere. They read our planet’s recent and ancient history in its rocks, fossils, landscapes, and its gravity.

Earth scientists probe and characterize the Earth system using satellites, in situ and laboratory measurements, physical theories and numerical models. Students conduct field work worldwide, from Antarctica to the Arctic and from coral reefs to mountain peaks. Earth scientists are concerned with the responsible utilization of natural resources, issues of sustainability, and the mitigation of natural and man-made hazards and global change. 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.

A point of pride in the Earth Sciences major is that all BS students write a research thesis on their own genuine authentic research performed under faculty guidance.

The BS program is designed for students planning for employment in earth sciences or considering graduate school and a professional career in the earth sciences and requires comprehensive preparation in basic science and mathematics, with 4 subprogram tracks, see below.

For more information visit the School of Earth Sciences website or view the university's major curriculum sheet.