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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

Earth and Planetary Sciences News

  • New research shows that elevation changes and earthquakes in Italy’s Campi Flegrei volcanic area are caused by rising pressure in a geothermal reservoir – not magma or its gases, as commonly thought. Channeling water runoff or lowering groundwater levels could reduce risks for surrounding communities.

  • Euclid Soringa, Undergraduate Senior in the EPS department, was awarded a 2025 GSA J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship. Euclid will receive funding for their field camp in the French Alps this summer, as well as a custom engraved purple Brunton. Congratulations!

    Geological Society of America

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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Earth and Planetary Sciences Events

Learn more about our research groups

Explore research groups