Program of Study Courses and Sample B.S. Programs Field Trips and Field Courses Research Opportunities

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences offers unique programs of study in the earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences. Topics include the physics, chemistry, and dynamics of the atmosphere, oceans, and ice sheets; past and present climate change; the origin and history of the Earth, moon, and meteorites; properties of the deep interior of the Earth and the dynamics of crustal movements; and the evolution and geography of life and the Earth's surface environments through geologic time. These multidisciplinary topics require an integrated approach founded on mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology.

Both the B.A. and B.S. programs prepare students for careers that draw upon the earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences. However, the B.S. degree provides a more focused and intensive program of study for students who intend to pursue graduate work in these disciplines. The B.A. degree also offers thorough study in the geophysical sciences, but it provides a wide opportunity for elective freedom to pursue interdisciplinary interests, such as environmental policy, law, medicine, business, and precollege education.