Earth Sciences

What will I learn as an earth sciences student?

While the classes you take will depend on which educational track you pursue, as an earth sciences student, you’ll get a solid, interdisciplinary background in the sciences. You’ll need a foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and math to understand earth systems and earth processes.

You’ll also learn valuable skills that will serve you well no matter where your career takes you:

  • Problem solving using critical thinking
  • Using creativity to solve practical problems by combining a range of sciences 
  • Collaborating to complete projects with others
  • Interpreting various types of information, including numbers, graphs, and text
  • Presenting insights and information in writing and speaking

In addition, you will have unparalleled opportunities to perform research alongside our faculty both in the laboratory and the field. You can even receive financial support for your participation.

Earth sciences undergrad researches dinosaurs

Lindsey Powell, a student in the department of Earth Sciences, has spent her undergraduate career researching dinosaurs.

Most recently, she conducted research with Catherine Macris, Ph.D., assistant professor and geoscientist. Using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to examine geological samples, she hopes to learn more about how dinosaurs died and what happens after meterorite impact.  

Learn more about Powell’s work

$45–60Kmedian salary for earth sciences grads

6–8%job growth over the next decade