Minor in Earth and
Atmospheric Sciences
The Department of Environmental Sciences (ENVS) minor in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EASC) will
focus on the challenges and complexities of earth system processes that sustain our growing human
population. Students completing the minor in EASC will build a strong foundation in the physical science
of Earth systems, the fundamental processes of the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and
lithosphere and the flux of materials and energy through these systems. The understanding of these
physical processes will prepare students to address challenges that human populations face in a
changing world, such as sustainable development of energy and natural resources and assessment of
adaptation and mitigation strategies for potential natural hazards, such as intense storms and flooding.
Climate change and the dispersal and movement of pollutants through systems are also critical areas of
study. The minor will integrate classroom and field-based instruction with opportunities to conduct
research with faculty.
This minor in Environmental Sciences will provide a foundation for undergraduates who plan to pursue
graduate work in earth and atmospheric sciences. This minor will also fulfill a need for students majoring
in the natural sciences, such as Chemistry or Physics, with an interest in earth systems dynamics and in
the social sciences, for students who are focused on natural resource or energy policy.
Curriculum
Six courses will comprise the minor in earth and atmospheric sciences. Courses are completed in three
categories: Core Courses, Intermediate Courses (200 level +), and Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
electives.
Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Core Courses (2 courses A & B)
A. The introductory course will develop core interdisciplinary theories of environmental sciences that
will provide the foundation for advanced study of complex systems.
ENVS 131: Introduction to Environmental Studies with Lab [ENVS OX 131]
B. The earth systems science course is a study of how atmospheric, oceanic and continental processes
produce the characteristics of the planet, how this synergy has changed in the past and how human
activity affects earth systems. (Required course for all minors)
ENVS 331: Earth Systems Science
Intermediate 200-Level Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (one course)
Students are required to develop a foundation in the theories and concepts of earth and atmospheric
sciences.
ENVS 222: Evolution of the Earth with Lab [GEOL OX 142: Evolution of the Earth w/Lab]
ENVS 229: Atmospheric Sciences with Lab [GEOL OX 115: Meteorology w/Lab]
ENVS 230: Fundamentals of Geology with Lab [GEOL OX 141: Physical Geology w/Lab]
ENVS 235: Environmental Geology
Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Electives (three additional courses)
Students will complete elective courses in their area interest in consultation with their advisor.
ENVS 222: Evolution of the Earth with Lab [GEOL OX 142: Evolution of the Earth w/Lab]
ENVS 229: Atmospheric Sciences with Lab [GEOL OX 115: Meteorology w/Lab]
ENVS 230: Fundamentals of Geology with Lab [GEOL OX 141: Physical Geology w/Lab]
ENVS 235: Environmental Geology
ENVS 241/242: Modern and Ancient Tropical Environments [GEOL OX 220N]
ENVS 250: Cartography and GIS
GEOL OX 250: Mineral Resources, Energy and Power with Lab
ENVS 321: Geology and Human Health
ENVS 325: Energy and Climate Change
ENVS/CHEM 328: Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry (proposed Spring 2015)
ENVS 330: Climatology
ENVS 342: Barrier Islands
ENVS 346: Geological Origins of Landscapes with Lab
ENVS 348: Sustainable Water Resources with Lab
ENVS 361: Ecosystems Through Time
ENVS 385: Special Topics courses may apply towards the minor (must be preapproved)
ENVS 410: Extinctions
One of the following courses (3-4 credit hours) may also be used to fulfill an elective for the minor (must
be preapproved).
ENVS 399/399W: Intro to Independent Research (Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Topics)
ENVS 494/494W: Individual Research (Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Topics)
ENVS 498/498W: Individual Directed Reading (Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Topics)
ENVS 499/499W: Advanced Independent Research (Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Topics)