Earth Science

Overview

The Earth Science degree from Portland State University grounds you in the geologic framework of inquiry and problem solving while encouraging you to explore the link between the geologic perspective of earth systems and concepts of sustainability.

You'll graduate with a well-rounded education in the earth, space, physical, and life sciences, preparing you for a range of educational and professional jobs.

The earth science degree is a flexible but focused program, allowing you to take courses in biology and sustainability-related topics that will give you a competitive advantage in today's job market. This background will give you a competitive advantage for careers in education as teachers in elementary and high schools and at the college level; as well as careers in governmental agencies at the federal, state, and local levels, and in the private sector such as with engineering, architecture and planning firms or in the construction, mining, and petroleum industries.

Career

The demand for highly qualified science teachers in Oregon is high, and PSU's bachelor's degree in earth science equips future teachers with experience in scientific inquiry approaches and knowledge of critical issues in atmospheric science, hydrology, our dynamic and ever-changing surface environment, and climate change and its impacts on earth systems.

Earth science majors can also work in a variety of environmental jobs in business, industry, consulting, and government agencies. Many of our graduates go on to become general or earth science teachers in middle and high schools, but the major also prepares you to work in careers addressing the challenges that come with environmental and economic development.