Earth Science

The dynamic Earth

As an earth science major at Iowa State, you will gain a broad perspective of how the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and human activities interact to drive changes in the Earth system through time. Earth scientists work at the intersection of different disciplines and at a range of temporal and spatial scales.

Earth science majors receive hands-on training in environmental assessment, sample collection, data analysis, and mapping. Courses, labs, and field trips provide real-world experience and skills that are highly valued by future employers.

Earth science majors choose from two degree options:

• The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in earth science offers a scientific and technical education that prepares students for careers in research, environmental consulting, natural resource management, and related fields.
• The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in earth science, when combined with a secondary major in education, equips students with the knowledge and skills to inspire the next generation of scientists through careers in secondary education.

A degree with a purpose

Your future career could be with state and local government agencies, NGOs, advocacy groups, or as a licensed secondary teacher (B.A.). Earth scientists consult with companies, conduct site monitoring and assessment, manage natural resources, and ensure regulatory compliance. You can turn your passion into a profession and make a positive difference through the following careers:

• Environmental consultant
• Earth science educator (B.A.)
• Environmental policy analyst
• Environmental scientist
• Hydrogeologist
• Conservation scientist
• Geochemist

Your expertise in earth science will help society identify and understand human impacts on the Earth system. Get to know the LAS career services team to help you explore the many career opportunities a degree in earth science can open for you.

A Cyclone in the making

Earth science majors at ISU are part of a close-knit community of students and faculty who are passionate about how the Earth works. Generous scholarships are available to financially support students as they progress through the earth science program, including attendance at the 3- to 6-week field course held at our ISU Geology Field Station in the Bighorn Basin of Wyoming.

Work with expert faculty and staff mentors who are on the cutting edge of geology and earth sciences. You will benefit from research and field opportunities inside and outside the classroom, and you can even make undergraduate research your campus job. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) Dean’s High Impact Awards for Undergraduate Research support student researchers financially and the Department offers Geology Undergraduate Research Grants (GeoURG).

You will also connect with a network of alumni who are leaders in Iowa and beyond while you pursue your major and after you graduate.