Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
The Earth and environmental sciences are aimed at understanding Earth's dynamic history — how Earth "works" and records its origin and age in rocks and landscapes — and how geological processes affect modern environmental and ecological systems. Among the natural sciences, ours is the quintessential interdisciplinary science, providing vital perspective on how Earth's physical and geochemical templates simultaneously sustain and threaten life, and influence human interactions with Earth.
Ours is a vibrant, cohesive department aimed at the highest standards of scholarship. Faculty and students at the master's and doctoral levels pursue studies that address fundamental questions in the Earth and environmental sciences, spanning deep geological timescales to human timescales. Students in Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) may pursue the following degrees:
- Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Sciences
- M.S. in Earth and Environmental Sciences
The Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in EES is administered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.
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Develop your skills in ecological research, quantitative analysis, GIS, and leadership to become an effective advocate for environmental conservation, education and justice. Apply for partial scholarships!
Transform location intelligence into insight to protect our planet. Earn a Penn State GIS certificate online, on your time. Gain new career-ready technical skills to enhance your career.
Earn a respected Graduate Certificate in GIS part-time and online in about 12 months. Master real-world applications of GIS and spatial analysis to investigate current environmental issues.