The bachelor of arts in earth and ocean sciences is designed for those students who wish to have a fundamental understanding of the Earth system in support of a primary career in business, law, economics, education, political science, public policy, or human health. As earth system scientists we believe that current and future challenges of a sustainable global economy, international policy, and global health can only be met with a thorough scientific understanding of the Earth System.

Students who receive the A.B. degree in Earth and Ocean Sciences may follow many different career paths, including: Research at government agencies or in the nonprofit world Policy advising in government agencies or think tanks Science or nature writing or publishing K-12 teaching Science curriculum development Outdoor education Interpretation at museums and state or national parks They may also attend a professional school in law, business, public policy, etc., using their undergraduate major as the basis for a sub specialization.