The Earth's climate is an often unacknowledged backdrop for our lives. It influences the food we eat, the places we live, and our nation's economy and security. Our planet has been warming over the past few decades, driven primarily by human activities, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. These changes are impacting ecosystems, human health, agriculture and forestry, fresh water availability, sea level, energy supply and demand, and transportation infrastructure. In the Climate Science option, students will develop a deep understanding of the climate system, as well as skills that can be applied to climate mitigation and adaptation solutions. Climate science is inherently interdisciplinary; the Earth's climate results from complex interactions among the atmosphere, oceans, land, ice, ecosystems, and people. Climate scientists collect data in locations ranging from the poles to the tropics, study satellite and ice core records, and perform simulations of the future climate using advanced computer models. The Climate Science option is built on a strong foundation of physical climate system science as well as an emphasis on the intersection of climate with biological, social, political, and economic systems. All students participate in "hands-on" experiential learning through field classes, project focused classes such as Climate Data Analysis and Climate Modeling, and senior research or internships. A broad set of electives allows students to pursue additional course work to prepare them in their specific areas of interest.

Career Opportunities Some students may choose to pursue advanced degrees in related disciplines, whereas others will enter the job market directly. For example, an Earth Science degree with a Climate Science option prepares students for jobs with: Climate, environmental, sustainability, and other consulting firms NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) regional offices Federal, state and local governments/agencies Renewable energy companies Nonprofits/NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) Graduate school in climate and related fields Science outreach and education