Earth Science is an all-embracing term for the multiple sciences related to the planet Earth. The B.A. degree in Geology with a major in Earth Science is designed to integrate all the Earth sciences in a systems approach to understanding the Earth. This includes incorporating and integrating subjects such as oceanography, meteorology and astronomy. The emphasis is on the preparation of individuals to work in a wide range of professional public sector service careers where preparation in Earth science and communication of science to non-scientific audiences is a requirement or an asset. This includes the preparation of Earth science teachers.

The Geology, BA program aims to provide students with both high-quality conceptual knowledge and hands-on training in geology in preparation for careers within the earth-science field or for graduate studies in geology.

The B.A. in Natural Sciences Earth Science Option serves to establish subject matter competency through coursework as approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), which waives the California Subject Exam for Teachers (CSET), and streamlines the process for students to enter the Single Subject Teaching Credential program in Science.

Earth System Science draws on chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics and applied sciences in an effort to understand the chemical, physical, biological and human influences on our planet.

The Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) program, formerly Geology and Geophysics, prepares students for the application of scientific principles and methods to the understanding of the Earth system and other planets. Subjects range from the history of Earth and life to present-day environmental processes and climate change, the deep interiors of Earth and other planets, tectonic plates, oceans, atmospheres, climates, land surface, natural resources, and biota. The emphasis of the curriculum is on employing basic principles from the core sciences (physics, chemistry, and biology) to further an understanding of Earth’s past and present, and addressing issues relating to its future. Students gain a broad background in the natural sciences, and select a specific track to focus their work on planetary or environmental phenomena of particular interest.

The Department of Earth Sciences (ERTH) (formerly Geology and Geophysics (GG)) is dedicated to the scientific study of the exterior and interior of the Earth and other planetary bodies. Sub-disciplines within the department are many, and offer rich opportunities for multidisciplinary study of problems of great intellectual and practical importance. Coastal geologists study processes such as sedimentation and beach erosion, reef growth and degradation, and sea level change. Hydrologists and Hydrogeochemists study the cycling of fresh water between the atmosphere, land, and ocean.

Develop a deeper and more meaningful relationship with a planet! The science of geology deals with the non-living (mostly) part of the planet. Our focus is on natural resources (oil, groundwater and minerals), earth history (fossils, climate change, mountain building) and earth processes (from volcanoes, earthquakes and glaciers to ancient sea beds, minerals and the earth's interior).

This B.A. focuses on outdoor-based, hands-on courses that develop your scientific intellect and effective communication skills through curricular experiences that emphasize project-based learning. Courses put theory into practice through applied, real-world approaches that allow you to grow your skills in analytical and team-based methodologies -- competitively preparing you as an environmental professional ready for a diversity of job types in the sciences. This degree is designed to be paired easily with Marist's Masters in Adolescence Education (Grades 7-12).

The BA chelor of Arts program is designed primarily for the liberal arts student who has an interest in careers in Geoscience education or environmental policy and law. A student who elects the BA program and decides to pursue the geology profession or attend graduate school will need at least field geology in his/her program. This degree emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of the Earth’s structure, materials, processes, and history. The intent of a Geology BA chelor’s degree is to provide students with a strong foundation in geology and the skills necessary to pursue various career paths within the geosciences, including environmental consulting, natural resource exploration, geological surveys, research, or further studies at the graduate level.

Do you want to explore the natural world and solve global problems? Applied geosciences involve interactions between humans and the environment and include mineral resources such as oil and water, geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides and volcanic eruptions, river restoration and understanding climate change. Geologists have the opportunity to impact the health of the planet and its inhabitants through interdisciplinary work in a variety of satisfying careers.

This major combines courses from Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (AOS) andMathematics departments. This program is designed to provide rigorous mathematical training with a comprehensive background in topics relevant to atmospheri and oceanic sciences. The program is intended to provide particularly good preparation for graduate studies in a streamlined course of study.

Geology is the study of the Earth and how it works. Specifically, geologists seek to answer questions as diverse as, How did this mountain form? and When will this volcano erupt again? to How do we provide clean drinking water? Geologists work at the interface between human-kind and the Earth, and are on the front line in solving a multitude of energy and environmental issues. Geologists use knowledge of math, chemistry, physics, and biology to answer these questions and gain first-hand experience working in the field. Graduates are employed by governments, oil and mining companies, and environmental firms.

Global environmental changes have occurred throughout Earth’s history, driven by internal and external forces. The Department of Geology is focused on understanding these changes by studying the materials, processes, and systems of planet Earth. We are the academic stewards of the Jean and Ric Edelman Fossil Park, and we use our teaching, research, and outreach to provide a geologic perspective to global climate change. The only university in the region with its own fossil park, our geology program emphasizes hands-on experiences through field research, laboratory experience and research. The destination for discovery, our globally recognized Jean and Ric Edelman Fossil Park serves at the core of our education program as a research and learning environment.

The Bachelor of Arts major in geology requires 36 credits in geology and ancillary sciences. It is a good choice for broadly exploring the liberal arts and want a general liberal arts degree.

Students who discover in themselves a sense of excitement about the environment, mountains, climate change, volcanoes, fossils, rivers, and earthquakes will find a good home in the Carleton College Geology Department.