229 Heller Hall
1114 Kirby Drive
Duluth, MN 55803
United States
About This Program
The Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) B.S. is designed for students seeking a multidisciplinary science education and experience focusing on the study of Earth, its environments, natural resources, and human interactions with Earth systems.
The EES B.S. has sub-plans for specializing in Environmental Science, Geology, and/or Hydrology, and General sub-plan for flexibility. All sub-plans require a broad base of knowledge in the basic sciences including physics, chemistry, biology, Earth sciences, mathematics, and/or statistics.
Environmental scientists work to identify, control, or eliminate sources of pollutants or hazards affecting the environment or public health. Geologists focus on understanding the history of our planet. They work with earth resources to help ensure a sustainable future. Hydrologists study surface water and groundwater to ensure water quality and availability for human consumption and industrial use while maintaining aquatic ecosystem integrity. No matter which path they choose, Earth and environmental scientists work on critical environmental issues, solving some of the most important challenges of our day.
Earth and Environmental Science may be ideal for you if you want to explore a mix of sciences like biology, chemistry and physics along with history and public policy. It allows you to apply practical solutions to real-world problems, too.
Program Highlights
- Situated on the shore of the world’s largest freshwater lake, we enjoy tremendous geological and environmental diversity in a haven for outdoor activity; we take advantage of this fact as much as possible
- Our department has a long history at UMD and we take great pride in a strong tradition of geology and environmental research, with many opportunities for field-based work and independent study
Research & Experiential Learning
- The UMD campus, located on the Canadian Shield, is in and near classic areas of Precambrian geology with spectacular Pleistocene glacial deposits and Lake Superior on our doorstep. Paleozoic strata are easily found in southern Minnesota and there are a lot of hydrogeology opportunities focused on lakes, rivers and streams. However, our research projects extend to other countries, downward into the mantle and upward into the atmosphere!
- Our commitment is reflected by the initiative of our faculty members in working with students through our highly rated Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)
Student Internships
- State of MN, Pollution Control Agency
- State of WI, Dept of Transportation
- UMD, Natural Resources Research Institute
- Lake Superior Zoo
- UMD, Minnesota Sea Grant
- Arrowhead Regional Development Commission
- Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve
- United States Geological Survey
- Vermillion Gold, Inc
- UMD, Geospatial Analysis Center
Potential Careers
- Geologist
- GIS technician
- Field technician
- Hydrologist
- Environmental scientist
Scholarships
Each year, the Swenson College of Science and Engineering awards over $1 million in scholarships. These scholarships range from $1000 to full tuition. The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences also has scholarships specifically for earth and environmental sciences students.
Get Involved
- Earth and Environmental Sciences Student Organization: The Earth and Environmental Sciences Geology Club is an academic organization with the goal of sharing our passion for geology and environmental science and helping you make connections in the department and throughout the field; we want to show you what Earth Science geology is really about. The club is focused on Earth science, environmental issues, and conservation and takes part in outdoor recreation events and restoration projects.
- Society of Economic Geologists
Requirements
Refer to the link below for more detailed information about the program, admission requirements, sample plans, and contact information.
Earth & Environmental Science B.S. Courses & Requirements