Why study geological and environmental sciences?
As a student in geological and environmental sciences, you'll engage with critical issues related to water, energy, climate, natural hazards, and space exploration through a variety of courses. This field is highly sought after, with strong earning potential in STEM careers, including roles in the oil industry, remote sensing, hydrogeology, environmental consulting, and climatology. The program offers an interdisciplinary education, combining physics, chemistry, mathematics, and engineering, which broadens career opportunities. For instance, geochemistry majors blend chemistry and geology, while hydrogeologists integrate geology with modeling and geophysics.
Why study geological and environmental Sciences at WMU?
Twenty percent of the faculty in the geological and environmental sciences focus on enhancing educational methods through teaching and research. They collaborate closely with research faculty to develop new courses and improve existing ones, aligning with top national and international standards. Undergraduate students experience a curriculum that is 60% classroom-based and 40% hands-on, involving laboratory work and field courses. Graduate students' education shifts more towards research, with 20-40% in classroom/laboratory settings and 60-80% focused on research. The programs cater to a diverse range of national and international students with various career aspirations, from industry to academia.
In the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences…
Our program boasts one of the strongest hydrogeology and remote sensing offerings in the nation, featuring extensive field and laboratory training with state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge numerical and imaging tools. Recognizing the dynamic nature of geological and environmental sciences, we’ve introduced new curricula that include space exploration, planetary sciences, and airborne geophysics, equipping students for their future careers.
Our focus is on understanding the fundamentals and applying them through diverse field experiences, enhancing student readiness for immediate employment. Graduate students benefit from a seamless transition between M.S. and Ph.D. programs, with an accelerated M.S. option for upper-level undergraduates.
We foster a supportive environment where passionate faculty provide individualized guidance, and students can explore a wide range of disciplines to align with their interests.
Our students…
Students can engage in research projects globally, including in Asia, South America, the Middle East, and the U.S., often funded by state or federal grants. They also have opportunities to present their work at national conferences, connecting with peers and learning about the latest discoveries in geological and environmental sciences. Additionally, students may participate in joint internships and training programs through collaborations with various research institutes and companies.
Where will this degree take me?
- An undergraduate degree in geological and environmental sciences equips students for entry-level positions and prepares them for graduate studies. WMU graduates work in government agencies, energy and natural resource companies, consulting firms, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions.
- A master's degree opens up diverse career paths where students can advance their careers make a significant impact.
- A doctoral degree focuses on preparing students for advanced research roles in industry and academia.
To see where alumni have found careers in the geological and environmental sciences, check out our Alumni Spotlight and Alumni Achievement Award Recipients pages. For yearly statistics about job placement, salary expectations and hiring trends, consult the American Geological Institute brochure, which answers these and many other questions.