Climate Science
The curriculum in climate science emphasizes the scientific study of the behavior of climate and applications to the important practical problems of understanding how humans are modifying the climate system, the changing hazards caused by climate change, and the impacts of proposed mitigation efforts on the climate system. Students develop a fundamental understanding of the climate system, focused on the atmosphere and ocean, and develop skills to allow the analysis of changes in climate and their impacts on hazards such as extreme precipitation, drought, air quality, and the interactions with renewable energies. The curriculum includes a strong foundation in basic mathematics and science courses; core courses in atmospheric thermodynamics, atmospheric dynamics, and climate dynamics among a variety of climate science electives, including electives that teach students about how science and policy interact, as well as understanding the controversies and conclusions from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
Environmental Science
The curriculum in the environmental science concentration focuses on the scientific study of the environment. Students in the environmental science concentration develop knowledge and understanding necessary to characterize environmental conditions, make informed predictions about the future, and prevent or address environmental problems.
Environmental problems can involve physical, chemical, and biologic processes within the air, water, rock, and soil, and thus often require multidisciplinary solutions. The curriculum for the environmental science concentration prepares students to tackle these challenges through a strong foundation in basic math and science courses; core courses in Earth materials, environmental geophysics, and biogeochemistry; elective concentration courses involving the fields of groundwater and surface water hydrology, biogeochemistry, the geology sediments and soils, and geophysical methods of characterization; and field course options that focus on building practical experience.
Beyond coursework, students also often take advantage of opportunities for work experience through internships, undergraduate research projects, and environmental-themed project teams.
Geological Science
Geological science explores Earth’s origin, evolution, structure, and composition, as well as its connection to the broader solar system. This field is essential for addressing society’s needs, including the responsible use of natural resources, environmental preservation, and the study and mitigation of natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides.
As the global population grows, securing vital resources – such as water, minerals, and food – sustainably becomes increasingly urgent. Geological science plays a crucial role in developing solutions to these challenges, applying scientific research to ensure the responsible management of Earth’s resources.
Ocean Science
Ocean science is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field that integrates four core subdisciplines: marine geology, marine chemistry, physical oceanography, and biological oceanography. These four areas are deeply interconnected, with significant overlap in research and application.
A concentration in ocean science provides a broad foundation in all four subdisciplines while allowing for specialized focus on one, enabling students to develop expertise in their chosen area while maintaining a comprehensive understanding of the field as a whole.