Earth Sciences (BSc) or (BA)
Award-winning faculty will guide you through basic concepts ranging from rocks, minerals, and fossils to plate tectonics and the dynamic processes that shape the Earth inside and out.
Why choose this program?
Why and how do volcanoes erupt? Where do we look for oil and reliable water supplies? Why is our climate changing? The disciplines of earth science play a crucial role in answering questions, such as these, about our complex world. Studying earth sciences at »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥ will give you insight into the Earth's evolution, composition, processes, and future.
The Earth is our home — the only planet we’ve got. It is the source of the valuable resources we all depend on. Do you want to become part of the solution to our world’s complex issues and help improve our quality of life in the future? Earth and Environmental Sciences can get you there. Our programs teach students to analyze complex issues and develop practical solutions that consider the impacts on the earth, the environment, society, and our economy.
Careers
Career prospects in Earth Sciences are excellent, with exciting job opportunities in industry, government, or academia. This degree can open up a wide variety of career paths to choose from, both on land and at sea.Ìý
Many undergraduate students get summer jobs in geology and related fields.
What you will learn
You’ll explore how geological structures were formed and how changes are happening deep within the geosphere, the solid part of the Earth. In weekly labs you’ll experience geological research and learn how to identify different types of rock by examining samples under high-powered microscopes. In addition to geosciences, you’ll also learn about the atmosphere, hydrosphere, our oceans and the biosphere.
Sample courses
Introduction to Physical Geography
Chemistry
Geology I Ìý
Life Science Calculus & Statistics
Mineralogy
Introduction to Petrology
Field Methods
Sediments & Sediment RocksÌý
Stratigraphy
Intro to Environmental Law
Geomorphology
Geoscience Information ManagementÌý
Advanced Field Geology Orientation
Pathways to Sustainable Energy
Coral Reefs and Environmental Change
Petroleum GeologyÌý
Earth Sciences offers unique options to explore your interests and meet your goals.Ìý Gain experience by taking field courses abroad, participating in experiential learning opportunities, conducting your own research, or volunteering in a world-class research centre lab.
Customize your degree
The following Earth Science program options are offered by »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥â€™s Faculty of Science or Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:     Ìý
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Earth Sciences
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Earth Sciences
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts with Major in Environmental SciencesÌý
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts with Double Major in Earth Sciences
Minor in Earth Sciences
Add a minor to your degree Earth Sciences to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
ÌýVisit the r to browse the minors you can take with this degree.Ìý
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:Ìý
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- Aquaculture and the Environment Ìý
- Environmental Impact Assessment Ìý
- Geographic Information Science Ìý
- Science Communication and Leadership
TheÌýÌý(DISP) is a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication.
Most students choose a Bachelor of Science (BSc) for Earth Sciences, but you can also take it as a Bachelor of Arts (BA).
»ÆÉ«Ö±²¥'s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is friendly and small enough that most students and faculty are on a first-name basis, yet it has exceptional research and training capabilities. We emphasize learning through experiential learning in Nova Scotia and beyond, in addition to the classroom and lab.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥ programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
- Minimum overall average: 75%
- Academic English 12
- Pre-calculus Math 12 (if pursuing through a BSc)
- Three additional academic subjects (four if pursuing a BA)
All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year.
You will officially declare your Earth Sciences major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
