Earth Sciences, B.S. - CEPS, UNH

The Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Earth Sciences has two specializations: Geosciences and Ocean Sciences. The Geosciences specialization is designed for students interested in studying Earth processes recorded in geological, geophysical and geochemical observations and measurements at a range of time and spatial scales. The Ocean Sciences specialization focuses on the interconnected physics, chemistry, biology, and geology of the modern and ancient global oceans. This major is well suited for students who desire a strong concentration in the Earth sciences built upon a broad foundation in mathematics and the physical sciences and immersion in intermediate and advanced coursework to solve problems and advance our understanding of Earth processes. The Earth Sciences degree prepares students for work in the environmental, marine, and geosciences industries, energy sector and climate technologies, teaching at the secondary level, state and federal agencies, graduate studies in the Earth sciences, oceanography, and related fields of study, and other careers in the Earth sciences and beyond.   

Sample Degree Plan

This sample degree plan serves as a general guide; students collaborate with their academic advisor to develop a personalized degree plan to meet their academic goals and program requirements.

Geosciences Specialization

¹

One course must be taken in each of the remaining Disciplinary Groups of the University Discovery Program (Biological Sciences; Environment Technology & Society; Historical Perspectives; World Culture; Fine & Performing Arts; Social Science; Humanities).

²

Three science electives must be approved in consultation with departmental advisor.

Ocean Sciences Specialization

¹

One course must be taken in each of the remaining Disciplinary Groups of the University Discovery Program (Biological Sciences; Environment Technology & Society; Historical Perspectives; World Culture; Fine & Performing Arts; Social Science; Humanities).

²

Three science electives must completed from approved list.

Degree Requirements

All Major, Option and Elective Requirements as indicated.
*Major GPA requirements as indicated.

Major Requirements

¹

Some of these courses may also satisfy Discovery Program requirements. 

²

Or CHEM 405 Chemical Principles for Engineers if applicable

*Specialization Requirements

*Capstone Experience

A capstone experience is required of all undergraduate Earth sciences majors during their senior year. All capstone experiences at UNH must meet one or more of the following criteria:

1. The capstone synthesizes and applies disciplinary knowledge and skills.
2. The capstone fosters reflection on undergraduate learning and experience.
3. The capstone demonstrates emerging professional competencies.
4. The capstone applies, analyzes, and/or interprets research or data or artistic expression.
5. The capstone explores areas of interest based on the integration of prior learning.

Suggested ways of meeting the capstone requirement in the Department of Earth Sciences include approved INCO 790 Advanced Research Experience, ESCI 795 Topics/ESCI 796 Topics, ESCI 799 Senior Thesis, URA/SURF/IROP projects, internships, environmental/geologic field camps, REU programs, or Earth Sciences education and outreach activities designed according to the above criteria. Capstone experiences must be equivalent to a minimum of 2 academic credits. Students should work closely with their faculty advisors to define the most appropriate capstone experience for their Earth Sciences degree program, although the capstone mentor can be someone other than their primary faculty advisor. All capstone experiences must be approved and certified by the faculty advisor and the capstone mentor. Presentation of projects or experiences developed for the capstone is encouraged at the annual UNH Undergraduate Research Conference or other appropriate venue.

Approved Electives

Program Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a broad understanding of Earth systems and their interactions, as well as their geologic and climate history, how and why these are changing today, and how these changes impact society.
• Recognize and understand common Earth materials, geologic structures, dynamics, processes, and cycles
• Perform calculations and apply computational methods to process and evaluate a range of quantitative Earth sciences data.
• Become proficient in basic geological and Earth science laboratory and field techniques.
• Summarize, analyze, evaluate, and explain/present student-generated scientific data and the primary Earth sciences literature.
• Effectively communicate results of scientific inquiries orally, visually, and in writing.