What is Earth Science? Earth science is an all-encompassing term for the sciences related to the planet Earth. Earth science includes the study of the solid earth (the lithosphere), the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, including the oceans, and the biosphere. Thus, the discipline includes subjects as diverse as the origin of rocks and minerals, the migration of pollutants in groundwater, and the evolution of life as recorded in fossils. Typically, earth scientists use tools from geology, physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics to build a quantitative understanding of how Earth sytems work. Earth scientists work in a variety of areas. With concerns about conservation of natural resources, environmental pollution, and global climate change in today's society, many earth scientists are involved in finding solutions to problems of waste disposal, urban development, providing clean energy, promoting sustainability, and coping with hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, flooding, and erosion. Others study the human influence upon the earth and provide the basic information needed to solve problems and establish rational policies for resource management, environmental protection, and public health safety and welfare.

What can I do with this major? Earth scientists are typically employed in environmental consulting and planning firms, energy and mineral resource companies, or government agencies, such as the National Park Service, environmental protection agencies, and health departments. They are also employed in schools and universities, a wide array of both small and large corporations, legal practices, non-profit organizations, and even the news media. Because earth scientists are continually urged to recognize and address the world around them, they acquire and hone skills that are highly valued in many disciplines. About 50 percent of our graduates obtain immediate employment in earth science disciplines. A bachelor's degree can provide the background to obtain support or assistant positions as a geologist in government agencies or consulting companies as well as the laboratory or field programs of mining and petroleum corporations and state or national geological surveys. In recent years, about 30 percent of our graduates have furthered their education in graduate programs. A master's degree, which is the terminal degree of most practicing earth and geoscientists, provides a wide opportunity for professional achievement and advancement. A Ph.D. in Geology, Earth Science, or Environmental Science can lead to an academic career of teaching and research. Many Earth Science majors have gone into law, business, or education. Environmental law and earth science education have become increasingly active areas in recent years, and the A.B. in Earth Science is an ideal path to these opportunities.