Overview of Program Goals

This major emphasizes interdisciplinary study in environmental and earth sciences. It is especially directed toward study of the problems that arise from interaction of human activities with the natural environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the treatment of natural physical processes over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. Students must complete a core set of interdisciplinary courses, then select one of the following minors as appropriate to their interests: Climatology, Watersheds & Water Resources, Marine Sciences, Earth Systems, Global Business Strategies for Earth and Environmental Industries, Science, Society and the Environment of Africa, Chemistry, Physics. Learning objectives for the program include clarity of thought and expression; ability to collect, analyze and interpret scientific data; ability to formulate and test hypotheses. Graduates are in demand for positions in government, industry and consulting (see Careers). Professional activities include gathering and evaluating data on environments; management and coordination of programs in environmental control and modification; and industrial and government planning.

Revisions to the Major

The new Earth major (beginning Summer 2000) represents a move from emphasis on required, disciplinary courses to flexible choices of appropriate interdisciplinary courses. It also places greater emphasis on course work at the advanced level than the old Earth major. There are two new requirements, both of which offer both flexibility and depth of study when chosen in consultation with a major advisor. These requirements are (a) completion of an interdisciplinary minor degree program, and (b) 3 credits of hands-on intensive learning in a field setting, research environment, internship or laboratory setting. The academic advisor must approve these choices in writing prior to enrollment in order to count towards major requirements.

Students declaring the Earth Sciences major after June 2000 must complete the new major program. Students who were enrolled in the major prior to that date may elect to complete the old major or the new requirements. Note that Math 110 and 111 may not substitute for Math 140 and 141 in the new Earth Sciences major. Note that Geog 030 may not substitute for Geog 406 in the new Earth Sciences major.