Earth and Environment
Study the Earth and its movements—from the smallest of pebbles guided by a stream in just a few seconds to tectonic plates moving continents over millions of years.
As a department, we combine theory, fieldwork and hands-on research so you can apply your study of the Earth to the pressing issues of today. You will examine the world’s physical structures and substances, analyzing their makeup and formation and developing sustainable ways to use and protect natural resources.
You’ll learn to address transdisciplinary problems involving complicated systems with complex variables, a wide range of scales of both time and space, and often incomplete or ambiguous data sets. Former students have traveled across the country and even the Atlantic to study, research, and learn more about a specific issue or area.
Our instructors are passionate about their areas of research and invest in students’ educational journeys so you are equipped and able to succeed in the classroom, in the field and in advanced study and work.
Earth and Environment Courses
Our programs offer intellectually engaging and challenging learning opportunities in geology and environmental studies through integrated classroom, laboratory, field, and research experiences. Explore courses offered by our department and courses accepted for transfer credit.
Campus Facilities
The Earth and Environment Department is home to a multitude of different teaching and research labs. Our facilities include six instructional laboratories, a GIS lab, individual faculty offices and research labs, a student research lab, a map room, and a rock and fossils preparation shop.
You’ll use advanced analytical equipment, and take advantage of our rock, mineral, fossil, and map collections.
Campus Facilities