College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Department of Geosciences
Location: McCord Bldg., Room 203
Phone: 931-221-7454
Website: http://www.apsu.edu/geosciences
Description of Major
The Department of Geosciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Geosciences with two concentrations, Geology and Geography that prepare students for working in a diversity of Geoscience specialties such as the geological sciences, environmental hazards, geographic information science, and global environment and development. In addition, we also offer minors in Geology, Geography, GIS, and Water Resources Management.
The Geography concentration prepares students for a holistic examination of the Earth including ecosystem and atmospheric processes, natural hazards and environmental management, relationships between nature and society, and understanding relationships between events around the world that cause changes to both in natural and socio-economic systems. Coursework will discuss topics such as spatial analysis, environmental protection, global security, international cooperation and regional development that ensure that students will become better stewards of the planet. Geography is interdisciplinary and offers diverse career opportunities in areas such as environmental management, disaster management and response, regional and economic development, careers abroad, and geographic information systems.
The Geology concentration encompasses the broad study of materials of the earth and processes that affect them as well as the evolution of life and its impact on earth materials and processes. Earth processes include volcanism, plate tectonics, earthquakes, landslides, and ground and surface water migration. Geologists utilize their knowledge to identify and assess environmental hazards such as ground and surface water contamination, land surface stability, and volcanic and earthquake activity. Knowledge of earth processes also helps the geologist understand the formation, occurrence, and extraction of natural resources such as water, oil and gas, and valuable minerals and metals. Geology is a great field of study for students who enjoy blending the outdoor physical environment with science. With consultation of a faculty advisor, our program prepares students for jobs in the geological sciences in private industry, state and federal government, and teaching, or for entrance into graduate school in the Geosciences. Our graduates are successfully employed in the environmental field and in the exploration or production of natural resources. The Bachelor of Geosciences with a concentration in geology prepares students for state licensure to practice geology in the state of Tennessee.
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