Earth & Space Sciences Department

Welcome to Earth and Space Sciences—where world-class discovery meets real-world impact.

I am thrilled to welcome you to our department website. As Department Chair, I take immense pride in leading a vibrant community of scholars, educators, and field explorers who are passionate about understanding our planet and the universe beyond.

Our department brings together six interconnected disciplines that prepare students to ask big questions and solve complex global problems:

• Astronomy – Decoding space physics, planetary systems, and the mysteries of the universe.

• Geology – Examining Earth’s materials, natural hazards, deep-time evolution, and critical resources.

• Geography – Analyzing spatial relationships between natural landscapes, human societies, and changing environments.

• Physical Oceanography – Investigating ocean currents, coastal systems, and air-sea climate interactions.

• GIS (Geographic Information Systems) – Applying cutting-edge digital mapping and spatial data analytics to real-world challenges.

• Physical Science – Building essential mastery of the fundamental physical processes that drive our natural world.

We believe science is learned best by doing. Through active classroom discussions, hands-on laboratory experiences, immersive field studies, and industry-standard digital tools, our programs equip you with the spatial awareness, technological fluency, and scientific insight needed to make informed decisions and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Take a look around our course offerings and program pathways—we can’t wait to join you on your educational journey.

Professor Jeremy Patrich

Chair, Earth and Space Sciences Department