Majors and Minors.
Students will develop scientific critical-thinking, writing, and
oral presentation skills and demonstrate mastery of the scientific method.
Students will become proficient at collecting and interpreting data in both the
field and laboratory. The required core courses will provide the knowledge of
the Earth and planetary sciences needed to critically evaluate scientific
issues discussed in the media.
Other Students. Students taking geological sciences classes for the general science requirement should develop an
appreciation of critical thinking and the scientific method, including
hypothesis testing. Students should appreciate the importance of earth sciences
in understanding of the physical, social, and economic resources and history of
our planet. One example: We would expect that any student successfully
completing our courses should be able to critically evaluate scientific issues
in earth systems discussed in the popular press.
Programs of Study and Courses for Liberal Arts and Sciences Students 
