Learn about the fascinating and complex world under your feet by exploring topics such as geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and hydrogeology. In its four-billion-year-old history, the Earth has changed sometimes slowly (such as mountain building) and sometimes with violent and sudden transformations that can be devastating (such as a meteorite impact). In Earth Sciences you'll learn about the make up of our planet, from rocks and soil to water and the effects of climate change. We depend upon resources that come from the Earth, such as minerals, oil, organic materials, gases, and the water we drink. Who finds these hidden and valuable resources A geoscientist Dig deep with your choice of specialization: Geology, Geophysics, or Hydrogeology. And if you're up for it, apply your knowledge through the paid work experiences co-op offers. When you graduate, youll be eligible for a Professional Geoscientist designation and be ready to develop meaningful environmental protection plans, predict natural disasters, advance health standards for water, and more. Get career-relevant skills. Right from your first term, youll gain practical experience in our advanced lab facilities. Or take part in research: our professors run projects in 15 countries on five continents. Meet other geo-geeks. Build bonds outside the lab and lecture hall. The Earth and Environmental Science club (WATROX) regularly organizes field trips, social activities, and other events. The Department of Earth and Environmental Science offers six specializations within its two undergraduate programs. Earth Science has three specializations (geology, geophysics, and hydrogeology) and Environmental Science also has three specializations (geoscience, water science, and ecology). All are offered through both regular and co-op streams of study.<br><br>Geology is the study of the Earth, its structure and composition, and the physical, chemical, and biological processes that have affected and continue to shape this planet over a variety of time scales. One aspect of geology is the analysis of the origin of rock formations, types, and their importance in areas such as construction. Possible careers: Exploration for natural resources (minerals, oil, and gas), environmental protection, identifying geological hazards, and understanding global climate change.