Earth Science

Overview

About this Degree

Geoscientists, who study Earth processes and resources to understand and help address these and related issues, are in high demand. A graduate degree in Earth Science opens the door to career opportunities that involve: work that helps sustain society and protect the planet; innovative technologies; and outdoor adventures and world travel.

Learning Goals that students in this Earth Science program at Iowa State University are expected to meet include:

• Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of Earth sciences; Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of Earth sciences; Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data; Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline; Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing, and often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media; Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship, fits into life and career goals; and Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.