Bachelor of Arts in Earth and Environmental Science

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree programs are broadly based, classical liberal arts degrees that offer considerable flexibility to students interested in the earth sciences, but who do not necessarily want to work in the petroleum or related industries. The degree programs offer an excellent background in the sciences and in technology while still preserving the flexibility and strength of a liberal arts education. The B.A. programs offer the technical background needed to compete effectively in a changing job market in a range of career paths. If free electives are selected carefully, this major can provide the background necessary for entry into graduate-level studies in law, geology, environmental science, and environmental policy, meteorology, or business. Students are encouraged to select a minor in allied fields of study to enhance their educational experience.

Many geology courses require field trips, and a nominal fee over and above tuition will be assessed to cover field trip expenses. Students seeking secondary teacher certification in earth sciences must also complete requirements for a second major in education (see Undergraduate Bulletin, pages 108-114). In addition, teacher certification requires proficiency in a second language at the novice level (see Undergraduate Bulletin, page 113). Both the B.S. and the B.A. track have options for Undergraduate Research for students wishing to participate in mentored research opportunities and for Geoscience Internships for students wishing to gain practical experience in the industrial applications of the Geosciences.

Course Requirements

Courses Credits
Geoscience Courses 35 hours
Mathematical Sciences 6 hours
Basic Sciences 15 hours
Social Sciences 6 hours
General Electives 18 hours
Humanities, Social Sciences and English 24 hours
Language 14 hours
Cultural Diversity 6 hours
TOTAL 124 hours

Please note that students are required to follow the course balance sheet on which they enrolled. This may vary from the information reflected on this site. Students should contact the College of Engineering & Natural Sciences' Advising Office for a copy of their active balance sheets.