Human & environmental systems Major

The Department of Earth & Environmental Systems offers a bachelor of arts (B.A.) and a bachelor of science (B.S.) in Human and Environmental Systems with concentrations in anthropology, geography, and GIScience.  (see student learning outcomes)

Course work includes a core of courses and laboratory work in environmental science, world culture and environments, earth science, and conservation and sustainability.

In addition, each student selects a concentration in one (or more) of the following areas. 

          Anthropology:  This concentration focuses on the interrelationships of humans and the environment including human adaptation, the emergence of humans, and the influence of humans on the environment.   Course work includes study in physical and cultural anthropology and archaeology, human evolution, human ecology, and electives selected from areas such as prehistory and forensic anthropology.  Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as museum and foundation work, and positions with cultural resource or environmental management firms. Concentration Requirements  4 year curriculum plan

         Geography:  This concentration focuses on human and physical geography, including the use of geotechniques.  Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as environmental consulting, emergency management planning, climatology, economic development, global studies, data management, land use planning, and careers in environmental protection.  Graduates may obtain the Geographic Information Science Certificate. Concentration Requirements 4 year curriculum plan

        GIScience:  This concentration focuses on the full range of spatial analysis tools, including statistics, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS).  Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as GIS specialist, cartographer, and remote sensing analyst as well as careers in environmental management. Concentration Requirements  4 year curriculum plan

Students benefit from one-on-one guidance from dedicated faculty mentors with diverse expertise. Most hold doctoral degrees—and all engage in research and scholarly publication. Course work is further enriched with lectures and presentations by visiting scholars from abroad.

Classroom activities and research are enhanced by state-of-the-art laboratories, field camps, and fieldwork as part of faculty research projects around the nation. Internships are available.

A number of activities and organizations are available that enable students to interact with other students and professionals in the industry. Student organizations include Gamma Theta Upsilon, Kappa Nu Chapter, the Anthropology Club, and the Earth Science Club. In addition, the department regularly hosts special events.

 

EES Courses