Earth and Environmental Sciences

Overview

Students take a core set of lab science courses with field components, then propose an individualized course plan that creates an area of concentration in solid Earth, Earth surface, or environmental science while maintaining breadth across the discipline. The core classes build a shared foundation in understanding Earth processes and materials and building skills necessary for scientific inquiry. The upper-level concentration and elective courses allow students to explore their areas of interest and build the skills that will lead to the careers of their choice. In addition to the required classes, students must take a calculus course, and are encouraged to take additional supporting sciences such as chemistry, physics, math, biology, and/or computer science to lay a foundation for the interdisciplinary nature of the Earth and environmental sciences and to prepare for future endeavors.

After Vanderbilt

Many graduates of the Earth and Environmental Sciences program of Vanderbilt University go on to pursue an advanced degree in geoscience, environmental science, law, or medicine. Others work in the oil industry, for environmental firms, or for governmental or non-governmental agencies dealing with conservation and environmental issues.

Employment opportunities in the Earth and environmental sciences are outstanding, with higher-than-average year-over-year employment increases and among the highest starting salaries among the sciences. Career satisfaction for those employed in geoscience fields consistently ranks near the top in national surveys. Our students get great jobs and pursue advanced degrees at the very best schools in the world.