Earth Sciences

What can you do with an Earth Sciences degree?

Earth Sciences helps you understand how our planet works and prepares you to tackle challenges such as climate change, water security, natural hazards, and resource sustainability.

At Wooster, you'll build a strong foundation in geological and environmental sciences while learning through laboratory work, field experiences, and original research. Whether you're interested in Earth's history, environmental systems, or the relationship between people and the planet, you'll develop the scientific, analytical, and problem-solving skills needed to make an impact.

Choose from two complementary tracks:

Geology, which explores Earth's history, materials, and processes.
Environmental Geoscience, which focuses on the interactions between people and Earth's systems.

Research from Your First Year

Participate in authentic research experiences beginning early in your college career.

Choose Your Path

Explore Geology or Environmental Geoscience while tailoring the program to your interests.

Learn Beyond the Classroom

Conduct research in advanced laboratories, at Fern Valley Field Station, and in the field.

Why Study Earth Sciences at Wooster?

Join one of only 17 liberal arts institutions in the Keck Geology Consortium, giving you opportunities to collaborate on nationally recognized undergraduate research.

Conduct authentic research from your first year, including paid positions in the department's Tree Ring and X-ray laboratories.

Work closely with faculty mentors who guide your academic, research, and career goals every step of the way.

Use professional-grade scientific equipment, including NSF-funded X-ray instrumentation and specialized climate research facilities.

Become part of a close-knit department community through GeoClub, Earth Sciences Week, alumni career panels, and weekly seminars.

Featured Courses

Explore the science behind Earth's past, present, and future.

Earth Materials
Hydrology
Oceanography
Modern Climate Change
Paleoclimate
Natural Mineral Resources
Cave Geology

Conduct research that makes a difference.

Earth Sciences students don't just complete laboratory exercises. They contribute to ongoing scientific research.

Students work alongside faculty to investigate climate history through tree rings, monitor long-term environmental conditions, study regional geology, analyze water resources, and investigate Earth's materials using professional-grade instrumentation. Many also participate in Keck Geology Consortium research experiences, summer field camps, and Independent Study projects that mirror graduate-level research.

The department also prepares students for the ASBOG Professional Geologist licensure exam, helping graduates enter careers in environmental consulting, government, and industry.

Ready to Explore Earth Sciences?

Whether you're passionate about climate science, geology, sustainability, water resources, or protecting our planet, Earth Sciences at Wooster prepares you to investigate the world's biggest challenges through scientific discovery.

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Career Opportunities

Anthropology graduates build careers by combining cultural understanding with strong research and communication skills.

Key Areas

Healthcare

Education

Law

International development

Public administration

Counseling

Social work

Museum studies

Research

Journalism

Consulting

Where Our Alumni Go

Anthropology graduates have built careers with organizations including:

Cigna Healthcare
Environmental Science Associates
Equality Ohio Education Fund
Kaufman Dolowich Law Firm
Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
RTI International
Smithsonian Institution
United States Institute of Peace
U.S. Press Freedom Tracker
World Monuments Fund

Scholarships & Student Opportunities

More than one-third of Earth Sciences majors receive departmental scholarships or awards each year.

Students may be eligible for numerous scholarships and prizes recognizing academic achievement, research, leadership, and commitment to the field, including the Karl Ver Steeg Memorial Scholarship, Robert W. McDowell Prize in Geology, Charles B. Moke Prize, and several endowed scholarships supporting undergraduate research and field experiences.