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Welcome to the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences!

Our students and scientists study the properties of minerals, rocks, soils, sediments and water using multiple lenses: stratigraphy, paleobiology,  geochemistry, and planetary sciences. Their work informs our understanding of natural hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and floods. It helps us meet natural resource challenges through environmental and geological engineering, mapping and land use planning, surface and groundwater management, and the exploration and sustainable extraction of energy and minerals.  It also helps us answer fundamental questions about the origin, history, and habitability of planets as well as the history and future of life on Earth and beyond.

Degree Programs

Undergraduate Program
Bachelor's of Science
Graduate Programs
M.S., Ph.D.
Coterm M.S. Program
Coterm Program

Meet some of our community members

Jessica Watkins at the International Space Station

Earth to Jess

Astronaut and Geological Sciences alumna Jessica Watkins discussed her experiences from the International Space Station, including seeing her former field sites from space. “Being able to see that from this perspective felt pretty full circle.

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Learn more about our research groups

Explore research groups

Earth and Planetary Sciences News