Why should I be an ESS major?

The objective of the major is to prepare undergraduates to understand the rapidly evolving field of Earth System Science. Students work with faculty and graduate students to obtain a quantitative understanding of the Earth system, focusing attention on global reservoirs (atmospheric, terrestrial biosphere, and ocean) and on the processes that can change this system over a human lifetime. Majors develop the analytical and quantitative skills needed to understand sensitive environmental issues and to apply this knowledge to the public, private, and educational sectors.

The department is recognized as one of the forerunners in the study of the Earth as a system. The faculty members are internationally known for excellence in their respective fields. As a major, any student has the opportunity to interact with and learn from some of the most respected scientists in the world.

In addition, all Earth and Environmental Sciences majors are strongly encouraged to participate in undergraduate research with a Department faculty member through Earth System Science 199 and to complete a senior thesis. By doing so, students are able to work closely with leading scientists and create a work of original research that could contribute to a better understanding of global environmental issues.