Earth System Science

About the Program

Earth System Science is the study of the dynamic interaction of the physical, chemical, and biological systems of the earth. The goal of the minor is to provide a framework for understanding environmental problems and natural resource issues faced today. There is abundant opportunity for field study.

Curriculum

Minor:
A total of twenty (23) credits as follows:


  1. Geology 111: Earth System Science
  2. Geology 116: Global Environmental Change
  3. Statistics (Math 111 or Economics 290, or Psychology 211) or Interdisciplinary 222-322: GIS (for a total of three credit hours)
  4. Twelve additional credits, selected from the following courses. The courses must be in at least two different departments: a maximum of one course may be taken from Group B.
    1. Group A
      Biology 200. Evolution
      Biology 212. Environmental Issues in South Africa
      Biology 214. Environmental Field Study in Namibia
      Biology 252. Coral Reef Ecology: Primary Literature
      Biology 253-254. Coral Reef Ecology
      Biology 315. Ecology
      Biology 375. Conservation Biology
      Geology 112. Evolution of the Earth
      Geology 214. Environmental Geology*
      Geology 301. Special Problems in Geology
      Geology 460. Internship in Geology*
      Physics 101. Astronomy
    2. Group B
      Anthropology/Sociology 205. Victims of Progress
      Anthropology/Sociology 321. Ecological Anthropology
      Interdisciplinary 260. Frontiers of Environment and Culture
      Philosophy 250. Environmental Ethics
      Religious Studies 200. Topics course (when environmental topic)
  5.  One Experiential Learning involvement:
    Courses marked with an *, or pre-approved research, internships, or
    volunteer projects. Pre-approved off-campus courses may be used to
    fulfill the ESS Requirements.

Faculty

Carol L. Ekstrom, M.S. Department of Physics (Geology), Program Director Ann M. Viano, Department of Physics
David H. Kesler, Ph.D. Department of Biology

Facilities & Equipment

  • GIS Lab
  • Foreign field study sponsored by Rhodes and by Associated Colleges of the South consortium

Outside the Classroom

Internship opportunities exist with the U.S. Geological Survey, USGS Water Resources Division, and the Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI). In addition, there are numerous opportunities for science outreach internships with the neighboring city schools.

After Rhodes

The Earth System Science minor broadens a student’s experience and knowledge base  and provides a basis for graduate study in geology/environmental science studies.


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