Bachelor of Science in Earth Science

Earth science seeks to understand the complex processes operating within the earth-atmosphere system and to apply knowledge of these processes to improve the quality of human life. Earth scientists complete coursework in a variety of geoscience disciplines including geology, hydrology, oceanography and environmental science as well as classes focusing on analytic techniques including statistics and Geographic Information Science (GIS). Our earth science program focuses on providing students with a broad background in the geosciences and its application to solving environmental problems and mitigating natural hazards. Thus, students complete courses in geology, weather and climate, map interpretation, geographic information science, statistics, chemistry and physics. One key feature of our coursework in the Earth Science degree is our commitment to field work and experiential studies. Many of the core and elective courses in the Earth Science program include class field trips and intensive, hands-on lab activities. The coursework required for this degree provides a solid undergraduate knowledge base which serves as a strong foundation for students continuing on to graduate studies or onto a career in the geosciences. We also support an earth science secondary education track for those interested in teaching at the middle or high school level. Download the checklists here. What can you do with a B.S. in Earth Science? There are a number of different career paths available to earth science majors. Earth science majors work in natural resources (oil, gas, coal, minerals, construction aggregate, water, soil) exploration and development, preservation of the natural environment, restoration from environmental damage, and the mitigation of geohazards such as earthquakes and landslides. Our graduates continue their education in graduate school, work for environmental consulting and engineering firms, and teach in the Maryland public education system.