Earth Sciences (BSc)
Investigate the dynamic processes shaping our planet.
Why choose this program?
Why and how do volcanoes erupt? Where do we look for oil and reliable water supplies? Why is our climate changing? The disciplines of earth science play a crucial role in answering questions, such as these, about our complex world. Studying earth sciences at Dalhousie will give you insight into the Earth's evolution, composition, processes and future.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
Minimum overall average: 75%
Academic English 12
Pre-calculus Math 12
Three additional academic subjects
Financial information
A university education is a significant financial investment. Every student is unique, and so are their financial circumstances. We offer competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources and support to help you explore financial options and develop a plan that works for you.
Program options
Dal Science offers a host of opportunities for you to explore interests and customize your degree. If you prefer smaller class sizes, some of our programs have the option of completing your first year on our Truro Campus. Whether you decide to enroll in the Integrated Science Program, get an honours degree, or pursue a combination of disciplines, our team of advisors will help you figure out how to tailor your degree to fit you perfectly.
From summer research awards, internships, working as a teaching assistant, or getting involved with SuperNOVA summer camps, there are many ways to gain hands-on experience during your degree. Many of our programs offer a co-op option that gives you real-world, paid experience in your field while making the connections you need to kick start your career. Science co-op students apply the latest theories to fields including biotechnology, conservation, agriculture, medicine, meteorology, and economics, and many more.
The following Earth Sciences program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Honours (Concentrated)*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Combined Honours*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Major*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Double Major*
BSc or BA (90 credit hour) Minor in Earth Sciences
Minor in Earth Sciences
What you will learn
You’ll explore how geological structures were formed and how changes are happening deep within the geosphere, the solid part of the Earth. In weekly labs you’ll experience geological research and learn how to identify different types of rock by examining samples under high-powered microscopes. In addition to geosciences, you’ll also learn about the atmosphere, hydrosphere, our oceans and the biosphere.
Sample courses may include:
Introduction to Physical Geography
Natural Disasters
Geology I
Mineralogy
Introduction to Petrology
Field Methods
Sediments & Sediment Rocks
Stratigraphy
Quaternary Sedimentary Environments
Geomorphology
Geoscience Information Management
Advanced Field Geology Orientation
Advanced Petrology
Environmental Remote Sensing
Petroleum Geology
Careers
An earth sciences degree from Dalhousie can open up a wide variety of career paths to choose from, both on land and at sea.
Future study possibilities as an earth sciences graduate may include graduate level programs such as a Master of Science (MSc) in mineralogy, petrology or micropaleontology. After your MSc you may choose to complete a PhD and do your own research. Earth sciences graduates have also gone on to study law, computer science, geographic information systems (GIS) applications, business and more.
