Earth and Environmental Sciences

Environmental earth sciences examine the interaction between humans, natural resources, ecosystems, special climates or unique geographic zones, and the earth. The Earth and Environmental Science (EaES) program at UIC is led by interdisciplinary scientists focused on education and a strong commitment to pioneering research. Our students discover and explore processes that influence climate change, water resources, soil and water contamination, life in extreme environments, and planetary evolution and gain a sound understanding of practices that help protect and ensure the sustainability of the planet.

Our faculty apply expertise in geochemistry, geobiology, and geophysics to study processes in the atmosphere, at Earth’s surface, in Earth’s interior, and on other planetary bodies. Our research involves fieldwork around the globe, laboratory investigations on campus and at national facilities, and computational modeling. The research of our faculty and students is integrated into the classroom.

Degree options available through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences include Bachelor of Science with Major in Earth and Environmental Sciences, Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Doctor of Philosophy in Earth and Environmental Sciences.

See how other students found their fit below with this major!

Below is a sample of how UIC alumni have applied their EAES major to a professional path!

• Engineering Technician, Andrews Engineering, Inc.
• Environmental Scientist, Salem Engineering Group, Inc.
• Environmental Field Technician, Urban GIS
• Field Inspector, Clarke, Aquatic and Mosquito Control Services
• Field Services Manager, Civil and Environmental Consultants, Inc.
• Field Technician, Environmental Monitoring Technology
• Physical Scientist, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Project Geologist, Mostardi Platt Environmental Consulting
• Project Manager, Pioneer Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.
• Research Associate, The Field Museum
• Restoration Technician, Tallgrass Restoration

In addition to the foundational set of skills and competencies you will acquire in any liberal arts and science major, there are also unique skills and perspectives you gain from your EAES major. Review the list below to learn more:

• Combine observations of the natural world with experimentation and modeling of Earth processes
• Solve problems using spatial and temporal (i.e. 3D and 4D) reasoning and interpretation
• Work and manage large and small data sets that include challenges such as uncertainty and indirect observations
• Integrate data from different disciplines and approach problems with systems thinking
• Ability to make detailed observations and interpretations in the field and natural world
• Strong scientific verbal and written communication skills

There are many work place settings, industries, and career areas in which you can apply your major based on your professional interests. Below is a sample list of industry clusters that other EAES majors have transitioned into. What type of setting or career focus appeals to you?

• Art
• Business
• Education
• Engineering
• Law
• Policy
• Medicine
• Science and Research
• Writing