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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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 your Master's in 1 year. Gain credentials and competencies while maintaining your work/life balance. Career coaching available to all students.
Earn a respected master’s degree part time and online in 2 years. No on-campus residency needed. Improve your career trajectory and protect our natural resources. Apply for 2025!