Western Oregon University United States

Earth and Environmental Science

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelors Degree in Earth and Environmental Science at Western Oregon University equips you to address critical global challenges at the intersection of geology, environmental studies, and geospatial analysis. You will delve into the scientific principles governing our planet, developing the analytical and problem-solving skills essential for understanding complex Earth systems and their interactions with human activity. This program is ideal for students passionate about the natural world and eager to contribute to sustainable resource management, environmental protection, and geological hazard assessment.

You will study this program full-time on campus over four years, engaging with core courses in Principles of Geology, Earth Materials, and Quantitative Methods, alongside specialized electives in areas like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, and Environmental Geology. Through hands-on learning and potentially field-based projects, you will develop practical expertise in geospatial techniques and stratigraphy. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental consulting, geological surveying, or further study, with opportunities for professional licensure as registered geologists in Oregon.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of Earth and environmental sciences, covering fundamental principles of geology, earth materials, and quantitative methods. Students will delve into topics such as structural geology, geomorphology, and geospatial techniques, culminating in a senior seminar. The curriculum also includes foundational courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, alongside a selection of upper-division electives in both Earth Science and Environmental Science to tailor the learning experience.

1 Core Courses (34 Credits)

Principles of Geology Compulsory
Principles of Geology Compulsory
Principles of Geology Compulsory
Earth Materials Compulsory
Quantitative Methods Compulsory
Structural Geology Compulsory
Geomorphology and Aerial Photo Interpretation Compulsory
Geospatial Techniques Compulsory
Stratigraphy and Depositional Systems Compulsory
Senior Seminar Compulsory

2 Additional Requirements (If Not Pursuing Pre-Graduate Studies Concentration)

General Biology: The Diversity of Life Compulsory
Chemistry and the Environment Compulsory
College Algebra Compulsory
Introduction to Probability and Statistics Compulsory

3 Upper-Division Earth Science Electives (Choose Four)

Introduction to Oceanography Elective
Geographic Information Systems I Elective
Geographic Information Systems II Elective
Remote Sensing Elective
Geology of Earthquakes Elective
Paleobiology Elective
Petrology Elective
Geology of the Pacific Northwest Elective
Volcanology Elective
Petroleum Geology Elective
Advanced GIS Applications in Earth Science Elective
Sedimentary Geology Elective

4 Upper-Division Environmental Science Electives (Choose Two)

Humans and the Environment Elective
Conservation Biology Elective
Living With Earthquakes and Volcanoes Elective
Basic Meteorology Elective
Medical Geology Elective
Energy and Mineral Resources Elective
River Environments of Oregon Elective
Environmental Geology Elective
Hydrology Elective
Field Geography Elective
Environmental Conservation Elective
Global Climate Change Elective
Soils Geography Elective
Energy, Environment and Society Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,070.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,070.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,070.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,070.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 80,280.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,400.00 - USD 3,600.00
Transport USD 360.00 - USD 840.00
Utilities & Bills USD 720.00 - USD 1,440.00
Estimated Total USD 3,480.00 - USD 5,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Monmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAgricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Research & DevelopmentCrop Production & FarmingEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingForestry & LoggingGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesLivestock & Animal Husbandry

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Salem-Keizer Public Schools

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Why Study Earth and Environmental Science at Western Oregon University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Western Oregon University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Western Oregon University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Earth and Environmental Science at Western Oregon University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit, and off-campus work may be available after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, international students can take the Duolingo test with a minimum overall score of 80. Alternatives include TOEFL scores with a minimum of 61 overall or IELTS scores starting at 5.0 overall.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as registered geologists, environmental consultants, geoscientists, or geographic information systems analysts.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Earth and Environmental Science program emphasizes the scientific method and problem-solving within geoscience. Students can specialize in areas like geographic information science, geology, and environmental studies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intake months for the Earth and Environmental Science program are January, March, and September. You can choose any of these months to start your studies.
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