Earth Science

Bachelor's Degree Program

Gain experience in one of the most exciting natural laboratories on Earth as you earn your earth science degree from UAF. Our program offers three concentration options to earn your bachelor’s in earth science. The variety of courses increases your undergraduate research opportunities and prepares you for a diverse careers or admission to top graduate programs.

What Is Earth Science?

Earth science is the study of our planet’s physical characteristics, from earthquakes and raindrops to floods and fossils. Earth science includes all fields of natural science related to the planet Earth.   

If you are fascinated by this orb we call home, earth science is the career path for you.

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Quick Facts

Degree type:

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Availability:

  • UAF's main campus

 

Why Study Earth Science at UAF?

As an earth science major at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, you’ll access the research power of a flagship research university with the personal attention and interaction of a small college, but with more opportunities for undergraduate research than many larger universities.

Here are more reasons to earn your bachelor’s in earth science at UAF.

Choose from a variety of concentrations

The earth science program offers three concentration options to choose from to earn your degree, including earth systems science, geological hazards and mitigation and secondary education. This allows you course flexibility and the opportunity to focus on different interests and career paths.

Conduct research in the natural laboratory of Alaska

Tackle the problems of climate change firsthand at UAF. Our program emphasizes field experience and access to unique research initiatives, including in our International Arctic Research Center and Advanced Instrumentation Laboratory. Collaborate with professors who have appointments with major research institutes. Explore the vast mineral and energy resources of Alaska.

 

What Can You Do With Your Bachelor’s Degree in Earth Science?

The earth science degree prepares you for a variety of careers in geoscience, resource management, communicating science, hazards analysis and emergency management. Our program also provides the opportunity to earn a credential for secondary teacher certification.

Career outlook for earth science majors

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of geoscientists is projected to grow 6% from 2018 to 2028.

What is the salary of an earth science graduate?

Based on recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, geoscientists in Alaska earn an average salary of $99,400. This is higher than the median salary nationally, which is $91,130.

 

Requirements for an Earth Science Degree

Earth science majors choose from three concentrations, including earth systems science, geological hazards and mitigation and secondary education. The earth science concentration offers students a sound background in a broad spectrum of geoscience disciplines, with an emphasis on the interaction between earth systems. The geological hazards and mitigation concentration is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in communicating science, hazards analysis or emergency management-related natural disasters. The secondary education concentration is designed for students who plan to teach earth science in a secondary school in Alaska. 

View all required classes for this program

Bachelor’s Degree Programs Related to Earth Science

  • Geoscience (Bachelor of Science)

 

Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Earth Science

Take the next step toward earning your bachelor’s degree. We have the resources to help you get started.

Talk to an Advisor

Have questions? Our expert advisors are here to guide you every step of the way. Let us know how we can help.

Transfer to UAF

Transferring to UAF? We can walk you through the process and help make sure you get the most out of the credits you’ve earned.

Apply Now and Request More Information

Earn your bachelor’s degree in earth science at UAF. Submit your application online today.