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Earth Science Minor

Explore the physical world around you with an Earth Science minor from the University of Central Missouri. Spanning multiple disciplines, earth science takes a broad, investigative approach to the “how” and “why” of Earth’s scientific processes.

As an Earth Science minor at UCM, you’ll apply knowledge and tools from all areas of science and math to better understand how the earth works. Research labs and class projects will provide opportunities to develop investigative and communication skills that complement a variety of undergraduate majors — and are valuable in many career fields. 

Pair your Earth Science minor with a range of undergraduate degrees

The broad nature of UCM’s Earth Science minor makes it easy to pair with nearly any undergraduate degree. It complements UCM’s bachelor’s degrees in Anthropology, Environment, Safety and Risk Management and Biology particularly well by enhancing your understanding of how Earth’s processes affect its living organisms and their habitats.

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Contact

Dr. Sally Zellers
Professor
W.C. Morris Science Building, 108
Warrensburg, MO
Tel: 660-543-8930
szellers@ucmo.edu

College of Health, Science and Technology

Department of Physical Sciences


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A versatile minor for most majors

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100% of faculty have terminal degrees

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Online classes available

What you will study

UCM’s Earth Science minor starts with the foundational course, Introduction to Geology, to help you better understand earth’s systems. You’ll build on the fundamental principles learned in this course and others as you progress through the program.

You can also choose from a variety of electives to complete your Earth Science minor. Take classes especially interesting to you that cover topics such as: 

  • Astronomy
  • Earthquakes
  • Environmental geology
  • Oceanography
  • Volcanoes

 

Unique learning opportunities in earth science

As part of the University of Central Missouri’s minor in Earth Science, you’ll take what you learn in the classroom and apply it in the real world. 

  • Field experiences: Explore Missouri’s natural terrain while gaining hands-on experiences to deepen your understanding of Earth’s processes and evolution. During class trips to local parks, for example, you’ll learn more about Earth’s physical elements, including local soil, sediment and rocks.   
  • Undergraduate research: Collaborate with peers on research projects to better understand course topics such as mapping and climate change. Investigate real challenges using the same methodologies and tools used in a professional lab to gain real-world experience.

 

What can you do with a minor in Earth Science from UCM?

UCM’s Earth Science minor provides solid career preparation for a variety of STEM industries. Students who pair the Earth Science minor with a Biology degree will develop a deep understanding of the relationships between living organisms and geological processes. If you're considering a career in teaching, you can pair this minor with one of UCM's many Bachelor of Science or Education programs.

No matter the career pathway you choose, you will still benefit from the knowledge and skills you gain with an Earth Science minor, including:

  • Appreciation for the planet
  • Effective communication
  • Critical thinking 
  • Problem solving

Jobs for Earth Science minors

Use the interactive tool below to explore job opportunities, salary potential, employment trends and other career data for graduates with knowledge and experience in earth science.

 

 
 


 

Financial assistance options for your Earth Science minor

Benefit from the University of Central Missouri’s high-value education and low tuition rates. We are recognized by LendEDU as a top-ranked university for low student debt upon graduation. 

Our financial aid counselors will help you work through the options UCM offers to finance your college education, including grants, scholarships and loans.

We have many scholarships available exclusively for students in specific majors. Refer to your desired major’s program page to learn more about the scholarships available to undergraduates. Scholarships are also available to students studying earth science, including:

  • Carlos Kays Biology and Earth Science Scholarship
  • Earth Science Scholarship Fund 

Use the UCM Scholarship Finder to learn more about program-specific scholarships.

 

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Explore programs related to earth science.
 

If you’re interested in studying the natural sciences to better understand the world and how it works, you may want to explore these related undergraduate minor programs:

 

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