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Field of Study in Environmental Science

Field of Study in Geology

General Graduation Requirements

Undergraduate Degrees

Graduate Degrees

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The School of Earth & Environmental Sciences (SEES) focuses on the study of the earth, the environment, and the role of humans in modifying earth and environmental systems. SEES investigates the materials and processes of the geologic past to better understand the present and future states of our planet. Such materials and processes range in scale from the atomic structure of minerals to global patterns of geochemical cycling and climate change. Inherent in these studies is the application of the basic chemical, mathematical and physical sciences to investigate complex geologic and environmental systems. The study of human impact on the environment is inherently interdisciplinary, involving, in addition, biological and social sciences, as well as elements of policy, planning, and ethics. The interdisciplinary study of earth and environmental systems is the hallmark of the SEES approach to increasing understanding of the earth system and to providing a sound scientific basis for environmental decision-making.

Field of Study in Environmental Science:

Environmental science is the study of natural and modified environments and their interactions with biological (including human) systems. It emphasizes comprehensive understanding of the environmental/ecological context, assessment of beneficial and disruptive impacts, and methodologies to analyze, interrelate and resolve these complex systems. Students acquire the holistic and interdisciplinary perspective and ecological understanding necessary to prepare them for a variety of roles in the study, planning, and management of resources and the environment.

Field of Study in Geology:

Geology is the study of the Earth, its composition, structure, origin and evolution. Virtually every aspect of modern life is in some way dependent upon the science of geology. Our program of study is designed to prepare each student through a wide variety of science courses in chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics for a career as a practicing professional geologist or as an educator or scientist in a related field. The successful completion of this program will provide you with a sense of accomplishment and an exciting career.

General Graduation Requirements:

The Bachelor of Science degrees in both Geology and Environmental Science require a total of more than 120 semester credits with a minimum of 40 semester hours of credit in 300-400 level course work with 2.0 minimum GPA overall and in the major. Chemistry and calculus are most important and serve as prerequisites for some of our upper-level undergraduate courses. The university has also set minimum requirements called General Education Requirements (GER's) in the areas of World Civilizations, Communication Proficiency, Math Proficiency, Arts & Humanities, Intercultural Studies, American Diversity, Social Sciences, Sciences, Writing Portfolio/Qualifying Exam, and Capstone Course. Students should consult their advisors for the appropriate sequencing of courses, as well as for the selection of electives that best suit their needs and interests.

Transfer Students:

Students planning to transfer to Washington State University should take courses that will meet the 100 and 200 level course requirements in Chemistry and Mathematics, English, Speech and GER's in the natural and Social Sciences. Refer to the Community College Transfer Guide for information about transfer credit either by contacting the Admissions Office at (509) 335-5586 for a copy or by visiting the Transfer Center online.

Undergraduate Degrees:

Graduate Degrees:

Minor Programs:

Minor in Environmental Science
Minor in Geology

Related Information:

School of Earth & Environmental Sciences , PO Box 642812, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-2812, 509-335-3009, Contact Us