Earth Science: Geology, BA
The Earth Science major provides graduates with a broad understanding of the physical and chemical processes that operate in and on the planet and how direct and indirect methods are used to examine and understand the structure, composition, and dynamics of the Earth. Graduates appreciate how humans and ecosystems interact with the dynamic Earth, and they have an in-depth knowledge of the atmosphere and climate change, the rock cycle, natural hazards, and the hydrologic and biogeochemical cycles. Additionally, they understand how to measure and use the structure, sequence, and properties of rocks, sediments, and fossils to reconstruct events in Earth's history and identify potential natural hazards or earth resources.
Students in the Geology concentration learn the various processes at work within the planet and on its surface. Students gain hands-on experience with fossils, rocks, minerals, maps, aerial photographs, and satellite images in the laboratory and on field trips.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 35. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: http://www.sas.upenn.edu/earth/earth-science/geology-concentration
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Required Courses | ||
| EESC 1000 | Introduction to Geology | 1 |
| EESC 1002 | Geology Laboratory | 1 |
| EESC 2100 | Mineralogy | 1 |
| EESC 1500 | Paleontology | 1 |
| EESC 2600 | Stratigraphy | 1 |
| EESC 2800 | Structural Geology | 1 |
| EESC 3100 | Petrology and Petrography | 1 |
| MATH 1400 | Calculus, Part I | 1 |
| PHYS 0101 | General Physics: Mechanics, Heat and Sound | 1.5 |
| CHEM 1011 & CHEM 1101 | Introduction to General Chemistry I and General Chemistry Laboratory I | 1.5 |
| Related Disciplines | ||
| Select 2 course units with one course from each of two disciplines | 2 | |
| Mathematics: | ||
| Calculus, Part II | ||
| Calculus, Part II with Probability and Matrices | ||
| Introductory Statistics | ||
| Chemistry: | ||
| Geochemistry | ||
| Physics: | ||
| Geophysics | ||
| Advanced Courses | ||
| Select 2 course units of 400 or 500 level Advanced courses 2 | 2 | |
| Total Course Units | 35 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
- 2
Equivalents may be substituted with prior approval from the Earth Sciences advisor.
Honors
Applicants must have a 3.25 GPA in the major and complete a Senior Thesis with a B+ or above.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Select 2 course units of courses from the approved list on EESC website | 2 | |
| Environmental Studies Research Seminar for Juniors | ||
| Senior Thesis | ||
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2022 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.