A graduate student teaches an undergraduate how to complete a seismic survey in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Earth and Environmental Sciences encompass a diverse and varied range of topics and disciplines. Think of any process that involves interactions among the lithosphere (crust, upper mantle), hydrosphere (oceans, lakes, streams, groundwater flowing in the crust), biosphere (organisms as simple as bacteria to complex ecosystems such as tropical rain forests), cryosphere (polar ice caps, both present and ancient), and atmosphere (especially ancient or "paleo"-climates) and mix in the expanse of geologic time, and voila....you will find geoscientists studying them!
The typical profile of a geoscientist is someone with a broad range of interests in science, nature, and the environment. Most geoscientists start out their academic careers as something other than geologists. Our students have come to us from Pre-med, Physics, Engineering, Biology, Geography, English, and many others! However, most realize that their true interests are in studying the Earth, interests that many have had since they were kids. No matter which road you take here, there is bound to be some aspect that you find compelling enough to draw you into the field and allow you to have a rewarding and satisfying career as a geoscientist.
The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at University of Kentucky currently offers the following degrees:
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Earth and Environmental Sciences
The BS degree is the standard undergraduate degree from our program for students interested in working as a geoscientist or environmental scientist or continuing on to grad school. This curriculum is rooted in classes like chemistry and physics and is best suited for students who can handle these conventional science courses and are ready to get to work solving some of the most pressing environmental and earth science issues on our planet.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Earth and Environmental Sciences
This degree allows students who may struggle a bit with calculus to still get a well-rounded geoscience degree. The BA has more flexibility and allows students to incorporate more courses from other departments that may better position students for plans like law school, K-12 education, science policy, and other tracks that don't require as much math-based science.
Master of Science (MS) in Geological Sciences
The Master’s in Geological Sciences program equips students with advanced knowledge of Earth systems, processes, and materials through a combination of coursework, fieldwork, and research. Students explore topics such as geochemistry, geophysics, sedimentology, paleontology, and environmental geology while developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Whether preparing for careers in energy, environmental consulting, natural resource management, or pursuing doctoral studies, graduates are well-prepared to address complex geological challenges in both industry and research settings.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geological Sciences
The Ph.D. in Geological Sciences provides advanced, research-intensive training in understanding Earth’s structure, processes, history, and resources. Students work closely with faculty on original research in areas such as geochemistry, geophysics, paleontology, sedimentology, tectonics, and environmental geology. With a strong emphasis on fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the program equips graduates to address complex geological challenges and pursue careers in academia, government, energy, environmental consulting, and other geoscience-related industries.
The department also offers a minor in geology and many courses designed to fulfill general education requirements in the natural sciences.
Undergraduate students in EES 230 learn the fundamentals of geoscience data collection and a billion years of Appalachian geology