Earth sciences

Understand how our dynamic planet works and was formed, from surface to core. Learn about the natural processes that have shaped the chemistry and structure of the place we call home.

Major highlights

100% of our students: Participate in outdoor field courses based in Minnesota and Montana.

A door opener: Graduates go on to jobs in environmental consulting, earth sciences research, state and federal agencies, and teaching.

Local partnerships: Faculty advise state agencies and communities on waste disposal, lake restoration, natural resources conservation, and more.

Research opportunities: Are plentiful in our research centers, including the Continental Scientific Drilling Facility, Polar Geospatial Center, and Institute for Rock Magnetism.

Student groups

There are many you can join as an ESci major at the University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering, including  the Geological Society (GeoClub) and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME). See cse.umn.edu/studentgroups.

Career examples

• Environmental scientist
• Hydrologist  
• Mining geologist