Environmental Geosciences Major

Environmental geosciences connects geology, biology, chemistry and the physical sciences. Learn how living things interact with the Earth.

Environmental geosciences study the past to understand the present and to prepare for the future of the Earth. Geoscience analyzes how the oceans, atmospheres, glaciers, soils and core interact to create our planet. It expands our knowledge of the universe.

Why study environmental geosciences at the College of Charleston?

Geoscientists study the planet, learn from it and predict what will happen next. At the College, you will interact with a world-class faculty. You'll investigate environmental pollution, water resources, environmental hazards and climate science. You'll learn how to work in the field, in the lab and with computers to better understand the Earth, the solar system and beyond.

What will I learn?

You will study local, national and global environmental systems. You will learn how to conduct field research. You'll learn how to design experiments so that you can collect data in a lab. You will develop the required skills for investigation, interpretation and report writing. You'll also be trained in environmental resource assessments, audits and policy issues. 

View Curriculum: Environmental Geosciences

Program Highlights

You will have access to opportunities in the lab, in computing and in the field. You'll take coursework that builds upon fundamental geoscience concepts. You'll prepare to help society tackle environmental problems.
  • Hands-On Learning

    Most courses include laboratory components. In these labs, you'll conduct field projects and data analysis necessary for modern environmental careers. You'll work on traditional benchtop projects. You will also learn how to conduct cutting-edge research.

    Internship Opportunities

    The department helps you find an internship with many organizations. You can connect with government agencies, non-profit groups, private environmental firms and more.

    Senior Project

    You'll have the option to conduct a Senior Thesis or a Bachelor's Essay. This is an independent research project directed by a faculty member. It will help you develop important professional skills.

  • Study Abroad

    You will complete a faculty-led field studies course. These courses are usually during the summer term and involve travel to sites either in the United States or overseas. Students have traveled to locations such as:
    • Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.
    • Greece.
    • Ecuador and Galapagos.
    • India.
    • South Africa.

  • Location

    The Charleston area offers a diverse environment for studying geosciences. South Carolina is unique in that it offers six distinct geologic regions:

    • Blue Ridge Mountain Region.
    • Piedmont.
    • Sand Hills.
    • Inner Coastal Plain.
    • Outer Coastal Plain.
    • Coastal Zone.

    The College of Charleston also has a unique living-laboratory a few miles outside of Charlesotn. This rural campus at Stono Preserve is a 981-acre property that is perfect for Environmental Geosciences research.

Careers & Outcomes

The environmental sector is quickly growing. Employers prefer Environmental Geosciences majors. You'll have a strong foundation in the geosciences and the ability to interpret important data. Recent students have pursued careers in fields such as:
  • environmental consulting.
  • engineering.
  • resource management.
  • construction.
  • law.

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A force of nature

Chase Austin remembers seeing the fall-out from an oil spill and wishing he could help. Today, he is working to protect important environments for loggerhead turtles.

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