Earth Sciences/Geology program

The earth science program provides students with a strong background in geology, astronomy, and oceanography, and enables them to study and understand processes that have shaped the earth and the solar system over the last 4.6 billion years. Students will learn about both the internal and surface processes acting on the earth, including the forces behind plate tectonics and its surface manifestations, earthquakes and volcanoes.

The earth science student will take advantage of new and developing technologies such as the use of global positioning systems and geographic information systems in the mapping of geologic, soil, water, and other environmental features.

The program offers advanced course work to prepare students for careers in geology that explore the causes and sources of contamination to soil, groundwater, and surface water, including the Great Lakes. They will also look at the methods employed by geologists in the assessment and remediation or cleanup of these resources

Students are encouraged to conduct research in an area of interest with a faculty member. The curriculum will prepare the student for graduate school or a career as a geologist, and also serve as appropriate intellectual training for persons interested in astronomy or oceanography.

A good high school preparation for the earth science program includes four years of mathematics and english; courses in earth science, chemistry and physics; good written and oral communication skills; and a knowledge of computers.