The Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences (EPS) explores the past, present and future of the Earth and other planets and moons in our solar system and beyond. Through education and research, we examine Earth and planetary interiors, surface environments, and life through time. The Earth and planetary sciences are interdisciplinary fields that draw on fundamental knowledge in physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Our studies have scientific and societal relevance: global change to the solid Earth and its environment, oceans, climate, and life; natural hazards (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods, and landslides); natural resource exploration and management (hydrocarbons, ore minerals, groundwater); and planetary geology and the search for extraterrestrial life. Several faculty members have joint appointments in other departments: Anthropology (in the School of Arts & Sciences), Environmental Sciences, and Marine & Coastal Sciences (the latter two in the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences). The EPS major covers the core areas of the Earth and planetary sciences yet still allows opportunity for students to specialize through additional high-level courses in EPS, mathematics, and allied sciences; students may also gain experience through independent study / research projects. The major can be completed in four semesters once students have taken foundational courses in mathematics and the cognate sciences. Our majors enjoy employment opportunities in geological and environmental consulting, the energy industry, government agencies, and secondary education as well as excellent placement in top graduate programs. The Department offers several options for students pursuing a degree in Geological Sciences. Students should discuss with the Undergraduate Program Director or any other faculty member in EPS which option is best for them. The Geological Sciences Option is for students who expect to make geology an important component of their career, e.g., in engineering / environmental consulting, oil and gas exploration, mineral exploration and mining, and federal & state government; it also provides rigorous preparation for graduate study.

The Environmental Geology Option is for students who wish to work in the environmental sector, which at present is the largest employer of geoscientists in the U.S.; its focus is on characterizing processes and hazards in the modern shallow subsurface; it also prepares students for graduate study.

The Planetary Science Option is for students who wish to pursue a research career, e.g., at universities, research institutions, government facilities such as NASA, and museums. It focuses on the physical and geochemical processes in our Solar System spanning the early solar nebula to planetary formation and evolution. The option facilitates interdisciplinary knowledge in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, and is therefore well suited to students transferring from other STEM disciplines as well as those preparing for graduate study.

The General Option is for students who have an interest in the Earth and planetary sciences and plan to pursue a career in science education, communication & journalism, medicine, environmental law & policy, business, etc. While most graduates work in a related occupation and many obtain an advanced degree, others choose another direction. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities.

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