COURSE CURRICULUM

The Earth Science program curriculum begins in the first year with foundational courses including Discovering Planet Earth, Understanding Earth’s History, and Laboratory and Field Studies in Earth Science, totaling 11 credits that provide essential knowledge and hands-on experience. In the second year, students complete three courses chosen from Mineralogy, Sedimentology and Stratigraphy, Earth Structures, and Geological Field Methods and Mapping—the latter being a ten-day intensive off-campus field course offered immediately after the spring term exams. This second-year coursework, totaling nine credits, builds on the basics and prepares students for advanced study by developing practical skills and deeper scientific understanding. During the third and fourth years, students must complete a minimum of twelve credits of upper-level geology courses numbered 300 and above, excluding GEOL 491. Additionally, up to three credits from related courses in Chemistry and Geography may be counted toward the program requirements, providing interdisciplinary breadth. These advanced courses allow students to specialize and deepen their expertise in areas such as geochemistry, geomorphology, and environmental geology, while also enhancing research and analytical skills crucial for professional or academic pursuits in Earth Science. This structured program ensures a comprehensive education combining theory, fieldwork, and laboratory practice, preparing students for diverse careers or further study in the geosciences.