Geosciences, Bachelor of Science

Offered by the Department of Natural Sciences

Geosciences is a broad academic discipline that integrates many of the physical sciences including Geography, Geology and Watershed Management.  It studies the nature of, and relationships between, the natural aspects of our world, and the ways in which human activity influences these relationships.  Geoscientists study topics such as, current environmental issues, geology, climate and climate change, water quality and availability, landform processes, the use of geographic information systems (GIS), and planning.

Geoscience majors earn a Bachelor of Science degree with optional concentrations in Environmental Science, Watershed Management, and Geology.  Because all of these concentrations have a common core, a student can easily change from one concentration to another, or combine portions of them to tailor a program to their individual needs.  Graduates from these programs pursue careers in government, industry, and Non-Government Organizations (NGO’s), or continue their education by entering graduate school.  Minors in Geology, Watershed Management, and Outdoor Recreation Leadership are also available and can provide important knowledge and skills to students majoring in related fields.  Finally, the department offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Environmental Technology that includes two concentrations; Environmental Technician, and Safety Management.

Program Objectives:

• Students will develop the basic observational skills they need to function as geoscientists.
• Students will perform tests and collect data to analyze geological materials, features, and processes both qualitatively and quantitatively.
• Students will apply critical thinking skills such as inductive, deductive, and mathematical reasoning to solve geological problems using the scientific method.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to acquire and communicate scientific data, ideas, and interpretations through written, oral, visual, and digital means.

Program Learning Outcomes:

• Students will produce and interpret maps, images, charts and other graphic data.
• Students will explain how human actions influence the environment on local, regional and global scales.
• Students will develop, investigate and present a research problem.