Students in this program of study learn to interrupt human and environmental patterns, describe components and functions of socio-ecological systems and analyze the complex relationship between humans and the natural environment. As a bachelor of arts program, this degree requires fewer science and math courses while still offering a rigorous academic experience for students interested in jobs in the environmental field.
Students in this field learn more about our earth and our changing environmental needs and concerns. They master mapping concepts, environmental systems and the complex relationship between humans and nature. This is a science-forward program where undergraduates become experts at analyzing data around geologic features and imagery.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related geospatial techniques are fast-growing and increasingly applied to almost all sectors of our society. Examples include environmental mapping, urban planning and public resource management. Current undergraduate students are eligible to apply for this certificate program which can be earned in tandem or upon completion of their undergraduate degree.
Our minors allow you to seek and understanding of the earth and environment while pursuing a major in another subject. Complement your degree through the study of earth and environmental sciences and you will develop a greater understanding of the planet as you prepare for a career in a variety of fields.
The master's degree in Environmental and Urban Geosciences (M.S. EUG) prepares students for advanced study in natural hazards, paleoseismology, geology, geochemistry, climate variability, water resources, wetland dynamics, air and water pollution, geoarchaeology, paleoenvironments, geography, urban and human systems, geographic information systems and environmental remote sensing. The program provides students with either a thesis or non-thesis option.
GIS and related geo-spatial techniques are fast-growing and increasingly applied to almost all sectors of our society. Examples include environmental mapping, urban planning and public resource management. This program offers GIS-related multidisciplinary courses through several academic programs such as geosciences, urban planning and design, sociology, economics and criminal justice and criminology. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in the rapidly growing job market.
UMKC’s Interdisciplinary Ph.D. program includes Geosciences as a dedicated discipline.
Faculty members in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences conduct research in applied geophysics, atmospheric sciences, climate variability and climate change, cultural and historical geography (Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and West Africa), engineering and environmental geology, geochemistry, GIS, historical cartography, geoarcheology, geomorphology, mineral deposits, stratigraphy and quaternary environments.
Consultation with the principal graduate advisors for geology and geography would be a good way for the student to explore co-disciplines. Previous students have designated co-disciplines of chemistry, civil engineering, computer science, curriculum and instruction and physics. Other excellent possibilities would include economics, history and sociology.
Hands-on research experiences
Our undergraduate students have the opportunity for enhance their university experience with field courses and excursions, including research projects in a variety of countries such as Jordan, Mexico, Chad, China, South Korea, Cameroon, the Bahamas, Denmark, Spain, India and Turkey.
The Richard L. Sutton Jr. Geosciences Museum offers students the opportunity to view samples from the field first-hand through our extensive collection.