Bachelor of Science in Geography – Earth Science

Investigate the science behind Earth’s changing environments. The Earth Science concentration in UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Science in Geography degree provides a science-focused study of the physical processes that shape landscapes, climate systems, water resources, and ecosystems. Through coursework in physical geography, cartography, environmental analysis, and Earth systems science, you’ll develop the technical and analytical skills needed to understand complex environmental challenges.

Designed for students interested in environmental science, natural resource management, climate studies, and environmental assessment, this concentration emphasizes data-driven problem solving and scientific inquiry. You’ll graduate prepared to analyze environmental change, evaluate natural systems, and apply geographic science to real-world environmental issues.

Earth Science, B.S. Concentration Highlights

• Investigate Earth’s physical systems through science. Study climate, landforms, ecosystems, water resources, and environmental processes while building a deeper understanding of how Earth’s systems function and interact.
• Build technical and analytical expertise. Gain experience with GPS technology, GIS software, environmental data analysis, mapping, and spatial problem-solving. You’ll also have access to specialized facilities such as the Carolina Tree-Ring Science Laboratory and Regolith Analysis Laboratory.
• Examine environmental challenges through a data-driven lens. Explore issues such as climate variability, natural resource management, environmental assessment, and ecosystem change using evidence-based approaches.
• Study at a nationally recognized sustainability leader. UNC Greensboro is ranked among the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges (Princeton Review’s Green College List, 2026), providing an ideal environment for students interested in environmental science and sustainable solutions.

B.S. in Geography Earth Science Concentration Student Experience

• Apply classroom learning through hands-on experiences. Explore geographic processes through field courses, outdoor investigations, and study abroad opportunities. Geography students have examined diverse environments, from the Canadian Rockies and Central Rocky Mountains to the desert Southwest and Pacific Northwest.
• Connect with environmental and geospatial professionals. Through the student-led Geography Club, you’ll engage with environmental scientists, planners, GIS specialists, and other professionals while exploring career paths and industry trends.
• Challenge yourself as a geography scholar. Students can compete on UNCG’s award-winning Geography Bowl Team and earn membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon, the international honor society for geography.

After Graduating with a Bachelor of science in Geography — Earth Science Concentration

UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Science in Geography — Earth Science concentration prepares you to understand and analyze environmental systems. You’ll study climate, landscapes, natural resources, and environmental change while developing scientific and analytical skills.

Graduates work in environmental consulting, conservation, natural resource management, planning, government, and geospatial fields. The program also provides excellent preparation for graduate study. Many alumni continue their education through UNCG’s online Master’s in Sustainability and Environment or the Post‑Baccalaureate Certificate in Sustainability. You’ll graduate ready to help solve today’s environmental challenges through science-based decision-making.

Potential Career Paths