Earth Science - Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences

Complete all of the following:

• GC 100 Physical Geography [SCII] (4 cr.)
• GC 205 Introduction to Geographic Research (4 cr.)
• GC 225 Introduction to Maps (2 cr.)
• GC 235 Quantitative Methods (4 cr.)
• GC 255 Physical Geology [SCII] (4 cr.)
• GC 335 Geographic Information Systems (4 cr.)
• GC 385 Weather and Climate (4 cr.)
• GC 488 Earth and Environmental Science Capstone Research or
      GC 489 Human-Environment Capstone Research (4 cr.)

Choose four credits from the following:

• GC 365 Historical Geology (4 cr.)
• GC 370 Geomorphology (4 cr.)
• GC 376 Field Geology (4 cr.)

Managing, protecting, and restoring air and water resources are essential for all life. Clean air and water support habitat for fish and wildlife and healthy plant communities, as well as human health and recreation. Students in this concentration will gain relevant field and laboratory experience in monitoring air and water quality, assessing the impacts of pollutants, and better positioning themselves to design and implement solutions with stakeholders. An Earth scientist specializing in Air and Water Resources can work in fields such as, agronomy, air quality monitoring, aquatic science, environmental monitoring, forestry, wastewater treatment, water resource management and conservation, and wetland protection.

• GC 285 Earth’s Climate: Past present and Future (4 cr.)
• GC 465 Hydrology (4 cr.)

Choose 8 credits from the following:

• GC 202 Soils (4 cr.)
• GC 342 Energy and the Environment (4 cr.)
• GC 362 Wetlands (4 cr.)
• GC 390 Oceanography (2 cr.)
• GC 475 Environmental Impact Assessment (4 cr.)
• GC 482 Earth Systems Interactions (2 - 4 cr.)
• GC 491 Internship (2 - 6 cr.)

Geology is the study of Earth’s structure and composition, its history, and the processes that shape it. Geologists receive training to investigate mountain formation, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, fossils, natural resources, and water resources. They play a crucial role in identifying problems and solutions relating to energy, geological hazards, mineral resource extraction, and other impacts to land, water, and air. This knowledge helps scientists, policymakers, and business professionals make decisions regarding the stewardship of our environment and natural resources. Graduates can pursue careers at a conservation organization, an environmental consulting or engineering firm, or a mine, or they can engage in geologic research for a university or state or Federal agency.

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

• GC 365 Historical Geology (4 cr.)
• GC 370 Geomorphology (4 cr.)
• GC 376 Field Geology (4 cr.)

Choose 8 credits from the following:

• GC 202 Soils (4 cr.)
• GC 210 Earth Hazards (4 cr.) [SCII]
• GC 285 Earth’s Climate: Past, Present, and Future (4 cr.)
• GC 465 Hydrology (4 cr.)
• GC 491 Internship (2 - 6 cr.)

Natural hazards such as wildfires, weather events (thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes), volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, and floods threaten ecosystems and human life. Skills and competencies regarding the analysis and communication of risk of these hazards are now essential for mitigating their threat and impact to communities. Earth scientists specializing in natural hazards have a fundamental background in biological, geological, geomorphological, hydrological, and meteorological principles, as well as sophisticated data analytics tools to investigate natural hazards and their consequences. The information conveyed by Earth scientists is critical for emergency responders and policymakers dedicated to supporting public safety and economic well-being. This degree will prepare its graduates for employment in either governmental (local, state, Federal) or non-governmental organizations.

• GC 210 Earth Hazards (4 cr.) [SCII]

Choose 12 credits from the following:

• GC 202 Soils (4 cr.)
• GC 370 Geomorphology (4 cr.)
• GC 390 Oceanography (2 cr.)
• GC 425 Remote Sensing (4 cr.)
• GC 428 Spatial Analysis (4 cr.)
• GC 465 Hydrology (4 cr.)
• GC 475 Environmental Impact Assessment (4 cr.)
• GC 482 Earth Systems Interactions (2 - 4 cr.)
• GC 491 Internship (2 - 6 cr.)
• SP 432 Environmental Communication (4 cr.)

Developments in data science, Geographic Information Science, simulation modeling, and visualization have revolutionized the ability of scientists to investigate complex atmospheric, biological, hydrological, and geological processes and interactions in the Earth system. Our students develop a solid foundation in computer science, Earth science, chemistry, Geographic Information Science, and remote sensing to analyze data essential for industrial and governmental organizations tackling environmental issues such as biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, natural resources management, and climate change. Knowledge gained from these analyses supports decision-making by business leaders and policymakers alike. Graduates will have skills and knowledge valuable to consulting firms, energy production companies, and government agencies.

• GC 425 Remote Sensing (4 cr)

Choose 12 credits from the following:

• CS 120 Computer Science I (4 cr.) [QUAR]
• GC 337 Cartographic Design (4 cr.)
• GC 362 Wetlands (4 cr.)
• GC 428 Spatial Analysis (4 cr.)
• GC 431 Landscape Dynamics and Analysis (4 cr.)
• GC 465 Hydrology
• GC 482 Earth Systems Interactions (2 – 4 cr.)
• GC 491 Internship (2-6 cr.)

• AS 103 Observational and Solar System Astronomy [QUAR] (4 cr.)
• CH 111 General Chemistry I [SCII] (5 cr.)
• CH 112 General Chemistry II (5 cr.)
• MA 161 Calculus I [QUAR] (4 cr.)
• PH 201 College Physics I [SCII] or
      PH 220 Introductory Physics I (5 cr.)