Environmental Geoscience Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Help an expanding population live on a finite Earth.

Human population is growing at a rapid rate today. Undesirable disruptions of natural systems have resulted from increasing demand for natural resources and places to build homes. Environmental geoscientists work to restore natural systems and solve problems before they occur. They also work to protect people from natural hazards including floods, landslides and other catastrophic events.

Program type:: Major
Format:: On Campus or Online
Est. time to complete:: 4 years
Credit hours:: 120

Why earn an environmental geoscience degree?

Application Deadlines

Fall:: Aug. 15
Spring:: Dec. 15
Summer:: May 1

UND's Environmental Geoscience program combines a broad foundation in geology with classes in a wide range of other sciences, including biology, chemistry, geological engineering, physics and more.

Geology courses include fundamental geology, as well as more applied courses in engineering aspects of:

Geology
Hydrogeology
Geological mapping
Computer applications

Most classes involve lab or fieldwork. Internships – summer or during the school year – may provide first-hand experiences.

Geoscience Research Topics

Many Environmental Geoscience majors work with faculty on research projects. These projects range from fundamental scientific studies to applied studies that seek solutions to real-world problems. Recent student research has included:

Studies of the effects of human actions on habitats and species
Development of the resources needed to support development of coal, oil, and gas production
Designing better agricultural drains
Understanding the physical factors that affect rare and threatened species
Establishing hazards related to mining and minerals

Students must complete a senior capstone research project. Some students elect to also attend a summer geology field camp. They have a great deal of fun while learning fundamental skills that will lead to future employment.

Environmental Geoscience Degree at UND

Gain access to extensive resources, including cutting-edge equipment at the Environmental Analytical Research Laboratory. It has electron microprobe and X-ray fluorescence equipment. It is largest geoscience laboratory in the upper Midwest.
Join student groups, including the Association of Undergraduate Geologists and Environmental Restoration club, for networking, field trips and more.
Small classes with outstanding instructors ensure engaging and successful learning.
Let our team of academic advisors help you plan your major. You'll also have access to personalized Degree Map software to keep you on track to graduate in four years.
Raise your grades by getting free academic support at UND. We offer individual tutoring sessions, along with specialized writing and math support programs.
Get hired! At UND, you'll receive help perfecting your resume, practice interviewing, and learn effective job-hunting strategies.

Geoscientist Jobs

93K

Average salary for geoscientists

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Expected increase in demand for geoscientists by 2030

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Environmental geoscientists are expected to be in heavy demand in years to come. As our population and resource needs grow, so, too, will the need to use those resources responsibly.

Graduates of UND's Environmental Geoscience program can pursue further education. They can also branch into fields such as:

Geography
Ecology
Hydrology
Engineering
Environmental policy

What can I do with a degree in environmental geoscience?

Many of our graduates work on:

Evaluation and mitigation of natural hazards (earthquakes, landslides, floods, etc.)
Hydrological and environmental field monitoring
Characterization and remediation design of contaminated sites
Site selection for waste disposal and other critical land-use activities
Water resource management

Environmental Geoscience Degree Courses

Leaders that Do

Students use their skills to investigate the legendary bootleggers' tunnel under Whitey's in East Grand Forks.

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