Geosciences Programs
Please see our Prospective Students page for information on advisement. 
Degrees in Geosciences:
Geosciences is the study of the Earth in all its complexities, from the investigation of minerals and rocks, natural resources, evolution of plants and animals, ecologies of the past, our place as humans, climate change, natural hazards caused by earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, horrendous weather, or careless human engineering, to the tools of geospatial science used to map out and visually portray our land. It is a fundamental science for humans to appreciate, understand, and utilize in order to have a functioning society.
We offer Bachelor of Science in Geosciences degrees in four concentrations:
Geography
Geography - Geographers are concerned with understanding Earth as the home of humankind. The study of Geography deals with questions and problems of location, distribution, pattern and process within such varied contexts as the social, cultural, natural and physical environments. With a degree in geography, you will gain an understanding of how we fit in to the larger world around us. Societies and cultures evolve in part as a result of their physical environment. The key to understanding our history, and our future, is in understanding how we interact with this physical environment. Geography is not a separate body of knowledge, but an approach to learning about the world around us.
For additional information regarding a B.S. in Geosciences please contact:
David Jennings
Undergraduate Coordinator
Department of Geosciences
Office: Ross Hall 307
Phone: (423) 439-7512
Email: jenninds@etsu.edu
Geology & Environment
Geology & Environment - In the Geology and Environment Concentration you will learn about Earth's resources, environment and natural processes. ETSU is at the heart of the southern Appalachian Mountains, a very ancient mountain mass once the size of the current Rocky Mountains; close to caves and streams, faults and gullies, and the Appalachian Trail. Students have many opportunities to study Geosciences in the field. In addition to local field trips, every year the department offers a Field Experience class that travels to study the geography and geology of other regions. This highly field-oriented science amalgamates with laboratory experiments and computer application. Students who graduate with a degree from Geology and Environment work for consulting industries, state and local government agencies such as geological surveys, transportation, environment and conservation.
For additional information regarding a B.S. in Geosciences please contact:
David Jennings
Undergraduate Coordinator
Department of Geosciences
Office: Ross Hall 307
Phone: (423) 439-7512
Email: jenninds@etsu.edu
Geospatial
Geospatial Concentration is an applied science taught throughout all the geosciences concentrations at ETSU. Geospatial science is becoming ever-more critical where you will develop detailed understanding of a location, like how we design our city plans, manage our environment, respond to emergencies, etc. Our students employed in state, federal and local government and private sector agencies including city planning, forestry, transportation, water and environmental consulting. Employment in this subject is rapidly expanding and graduates with this type of training are in short supply.
For additional information regarding a B.S. in Geosciences please contact:
David Jennings
Undergraduate Coordinator
Department of Geosciences
Office: Ross Hall 307
Phone: (423) 439-7512
Email: jenninds@etsu.edu
Paleontology
Paleontology is the study of fossils to understand the past ecologies, evolution of plants and animals. Paleontology includes knowledge from biology, geology, ecology, conservation, anthropology, archaeology, and statistics to reconstruct geologic past. The Center of Excellence in Paleontology and Natural History Museum at Gray, TN provide natural history research through excavations, discovery, exhibits, and outreach programs. Students who graduate with a degree in paleontology often continue with advanced degrees in the profession.
For additional information regarding a B.S. in Geosciences please contact:
David Jennings
Undergraduate Coordinator
Department of Geosciences
Office: Ross Hall 307
Phone: (423) 439-7512
Email: jenninds@etsu.edu
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