Learn in our living laboratory
The College of Science is offering a new major in Earth & Environmental Science in the Fall 2023. Earth & Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary degree that enables students to study the interconnected nature of earth systems, including the fields of atmospheric science, geology, and ecology. Students with this degree will gain the education and experience to make an impact on the challenges facing our planet.
This degree will focus on providing students with transformational experiential learning opportunities. You'll start your degree as part of the Science Research Initiative, where you will join a research lab during your first year on campus - no experience required. After a community-building class providing an introduction to university research, students will be paired in a "research stream" with faculty and a group of peers to experience the challenge and opportunities with research - either in the lab or in the field.
Earth & Environmental Science students will engage with the living laboratory surrounding the University of Utah - from studying forest ecology in the Wasatch Mountains, geology in the midst of Utah's national parks, or climate science from the top of one of Utah's world-famous ski resorts. A critical part of learning about earth systems is to experience them firsthand, and our students will engage with the natural beauty of Utah while working on environmental challenges that face the state and the Intermountain region. This balance of coursework both in a laboratory and in the field will prepare our students for career opportunities in a wide variety of growing fields.
The University of Utah offers two undergraduate majors directly related to studying the environment: Earth & Environmental Science and Environmental and Sustainability Studies. Your advisor can help you decide which degree is right for you. Motivated students can double-major in both programs, or receive a Sustainability Certificate to add to their credentials.
Make an appointment with an advisor now!
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New Major: Earth & Environmental Science
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Read MoreEARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
The Earth & Environmental Science major will provide students with a detailed understanding of geology, land use, the atmosphere, water systems, and ecology. The major is focused on quantitative reasoning and thinking, and requires enrollment in the science core classes (biology, chemistry, and physics). Students are also required to participate in the Science Research Initiative, or a similar research experience.
Students will focus their studies on a specific emphasis: Climate Science; Ecosystem Science; or Geosystem Science. Students will have the opportunity to take courses in each of the emphases, however, only one emphasis can be declared.
Have Questions?
Sean Meyer, Senior Academic Advisor
Frederick Albert Sutton Building (FASB) Rm 104a
sean.t.meyer@utah.edu or click HERE to schedule an appointment
ENVIRONMENTAL & SUSTAINABILITY STUDIES
The Environmental & Sustainability Studies (ENVST) major in the College of Social and Behavioral Science is an interdisciplinary STEM program that has been established at the U for 25 years. The ENVST degree fosters an understanding of ecological systems, human societies, and the consequences of human-environment interactions. Our program provides students with a broad education that emphasizes mixed-methods, systems thinking, peer learning, and community engagement. It stresses the importance of social responsibility, leadership, a science-based focus on solutions, and integrated problem-solving.
Students will focus their studies on specific areas such as Air, Water, & Health; Conservation & Land Management; Food Systems & Community; or Ecojustice Education.
Have Questions?
Amanda Rives, Lead ENVST Advisor
CSBS Student Success Center: Gardner Commons, 2455
amanda.rives@csbs.utah.edu or click HERE to schedule an appointment