Overview

The Earth Science programme at Columbia University offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex systems that govern our planet, from its solid interior to its atmosphere and oceans. This curriculum is designed to foster creative thinking regarding multidisciplinary environmental challenges and the fundamental processes of the Earth system. Students gain a robust scientific foundation that serves as an ideal gateway to specialised graduate studies or diverse professional fields.

Why Earth Science at Columbia University?

Students benefit from the university's prestigious affiliations with world-leading research centres, including the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies. These partnerships provide unparalleled opportunities for undergraduates to engage in high-level research projects as early as their junior year. The department also offers unique field-based learning experiences, such as geological excursions to Death Valley and Barbados, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in diverse natural settings.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum combines foundational mathematics and physical sciences with advanced geological coursework. Students must complete a capstone experience, which typically involves a senior seminar or an intensive summer field course. Modules may include:

Earth's Environmental Systems: The Solid Earth
Geochemistry for a Habitable Planet
Solid Earth Dynamics
Field Geology
Mineralogy and Mineral Resources
Plate Tectonics and Climate
Sedimentary Geology
Isotope Geology
Earth's Environmental Systems: Climate System

Careers with Earth Science

Graduates are well-equipped for a variety of professional trajectories due to the programme's emphasis on analytical skills and environmental literacy. Many students progress to doctoral or master's programmes to pursue careers in academic research or specialised geosciences. The breadth of the curriculum also prepares individuals for influential roles in environmental law, business, public policy, and international diplomacy. Additionally, the technical training supports careers in journalism, teaching, and sustainable resource management, where an understanding of Earth's systems is increasingly vital.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Environmental Science

Environmental Science I Lab

Field Methods in Environmental Science

Environmental Measurements

Environmental Data Analysis

Hydrology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

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IELTS

7.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 446 other Bachelors in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Autobiographical information

Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities

Personal essay

An official high school transcript from all high schools attended

One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile

The completed Mid-Year Report

SAT or ACT

Applicants may self-report their scores

English proficiency examination score (if necessary)

These recommendations must come from teachers who taught you in academic disciplines

For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Earth Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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