See the Undergraduate Catalog for more information.

Bachelor of Arts in Earth Science

The B.A. in Earth Science degree is designed to integrate all the Earth sciences in a systems approach to understanding the Earth. This includes incorporating and integrating subjects which are seldom selected elective opportunities in the B.S. degree in geology, such as oceanography, meteorology and astronomy. The emphasis is on the preparation of individuals to work in a wide range of professional public sector service careers where preparation in Earth science and communication of science to nonscientific audiences is a requirement or an asset.

 

Bachelor of Science in Geology

The B.S. degree in geology is designed for students who plan to obtain professional employment in geology or enter graduate school upon graduation.

 

Geology Minor

The requirement for a minor in geology is a minimum of 18 credit hours of geology approved by the student’s geology adviser.

 

Teaching Licensure

Licensure in secondary earth science teaching also requires courses in astronomy, meteorology, and oceanography, to total no less than 32 hours in the earth sciences (including geology) and a minimum of 16 hours total in physics, chemistry and biology, in fulfillment of the requirements of the Virginia Department of Education requirements. It is necessary to be admitted to the JMU Teacher Education program (Education minor plus Master of Arts in Teaching) prior to enrolling in professional education courses at by the College of Education. For a full description of professional education requirements and a listing of specific certificate requirements in earth sciences, refer to the College of Education.