Professor and students examine a specimen

Study Geology's Impact on the Environment

Perform research and study with expert faculty at SRU

Environmental Geosciences

Offered by: Geography, Geology, and the Environment

Slippery Rock University’s Environmental Geoscience program provides explorers, creators, and world-changers with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree that is as dynamic as they are. This major gives students the opportunity to discover and explore the geological and environmental materials and processes that make up our world. Similar to Geology, this program focuses on the complexities of Earth, but with a spotlight on how these aspects affect our environment. 

One benefit of this program is its flexibility. Environmental Geoscience at SRU is an excellent choice for students who want a degree with the flexibility to incorporate a second major-such as Safety Management, Business, Education, or other sciences. Along with the general B.A. option, students are able to concentrate in Environmental Science or Geology for a B.S. There is also an option for a Pre-Master’s of Education option for students looking to become Earth Science teachers.

Why Choose Environmental Geoscience?

If you're interested in learning how Earth systems operate and interact while maintaining flexibility for additional majors or minors, then this program is a great fit for you. SRU is home to student organizations such as the Geography, Geology, and the Environment Club, and Sigma Gamma Epsilon, the Geoscience Honorary Society.

No matter what career path you pursue after graduation, your experience at SRU will set you apart. There are various opportunities for you to conduct research with faculty and learn first-hand from experts in the field. You'll also have opportunities to take advantage of internships, career development, and professional networking.

What Will You Learn?

As an Environmental Geoscience major, you’ll apply techniques and concepts from chemistry, mathematics, and the geosciences to understand the historical development of Earth systems. Through the program, you will learn:

  • How to identify and interpret the formation of earth materials
  • How to interpret geological history and the evolution of life on Earth
  • How plate tectonics controls the development of oceans, continents, and mountain ranges
  • How to understand interactions between humans and the surrounding environment

The curriculum provides lab experience in subjects such as Mineralogy and Geomorphology, while classes including Conservation, Air Pollution Meteorology, and Planning for Sustainable Communities address how these areas are affecting the environment directly.

Careers In Environmental Geosciences

While the options are vast (especially if you incorporate a second major,) some common careers for Environmental Geoscience majors include teacher, environmental technician, or environmental manager. Many students also go on to further their education and pursue a graduate degree. The focus on field experiences and research make this major relevant for any job position.

SRU graduates have worked locally in Pennsylvania and across the country, giving you a network of alumni connections that spans states, areas of interest, and positions.

Earn your degree in Environmental Geosciences at SRU!

Slippery Rock University’s Environmental Geosciences program offers B.S. and B.A. degrees that combine geology and environmental science. Interested in learning more? Request more information today!