Environmental Geosciences (BS)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Concord University

Program Overview

The Environmental Geosciences, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) at Concord University combines geology, applied environmental science, and geospatial information sciences to help students understand Earth's systems and address environmental challenges. Designed for students interested in environmental protection, geological research, water resources, and sustainable resource management, the program develops practical skills through field investigations, laboratory research, and geospatial data analysis.

Curriculum Structure

Concord University provides a recommended four-year plan, alongside an accelerated three-year option for eligible students. The following year-by-year overview is a general guide based on the official curriculum and planned course rotation; students should confirm the exact sequence with an academic adviser.

Year 1: Understanding Earth and the Environment

Students begin with foundational subjects such as GEO 100 Humans and the Environment, GEO 101 Earth Processes, Resources, and the Environment, and GEO 140 Geology and Environmental Issues in Appalachia. These courses introduce Earth's natural processes, environmental challenges, and the relationship between geological resources and human activities.

Year 2: Exploring Geological Processes and Data

Students build their understanding of Earth's structure and history through subjects such as Earth Materials and Minerals, Earth History and Stratigraphy, and introductory laboratory research methods. These studies develop the ability to examine geological materials, interpret environmental evidence, and apply scientific techniques to investigate natural systems.

Year 3: Applying Geoscience and Environmental Analysis

Students advance into courses such as Environmental Geology and Hydrology, Geographic Information Systems, and Structural Geology. These subjects help students investigate water resources, analyse spatial environmental data, and understand the geological structures and processes that influence landscapes and natural hazards.

Year 4: Field Research and Professional Preparation

Students develop advanced practical expertise through Field Geology, Remote Sensing Applications, and specialist courses such as Electron Imaging and X-ray Microanalysis, depending on their selected curriculum and course availability. Field-based learning, faculty-guided research, and the required capstone project help students bring together geological knowledge, environmental analysis, and professional communication skills.

Focus Areas

Environmental geology, applied geosciences, geological processes, hydrology, water resources, geographic information systems, remote sensing, field geology, environmental research, mineral analysis, climate change, natural hazards.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop knowledge of geological and environmental systems, apply analytical and quantitative methods to scientific questions, design and conduct laboratory and field investigations, interpret geospatial data, communicate scientific findings through reports and presentations, and demonstrate ethical and professional research practices.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Concord University states that its Environmental Geosciences coursework leads toward eligibility for professional geologist licensure. However, eligibility depends on the applicable jurisdiction's education, examination, and experience requirements. The official program information does not identify a separate program-specific professional accreditation.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Concord University reports that more than 95% of its recent Environmental Geosciences graduates have found professional employment soon after graduation or before graduating. The university also cites a 2022 average annual salary of $92,000 for geoscientists, attributed to the American Geosciences Institute; this is an occupation-wide historical figure, not a current salary guarantee or a Concord-specific graduate salary.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Concord University places strong emphasis on practical learning, giving Environmental Geosciences students opportunities to investigate real landscapes, use scientific instruments, and conduct research alongside faculty members. Students participate in field trips throughout West Virginia and the Appalachian region, complete laboratory investigations using specialised equipment, and develop geospatial analysis skills using GIS software and other computer applications. The program also offers opportunities to join research projects supported by National Science Foundation grants and to gain paid experience working in university laboratories or in the field.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Field Investigations: Take part in field trips focused on the geology and forest ecology of West Virginia and the surrounding Appalachian region, applying classroom knowledge to real geological settings.
Summer Field Course: Participate in a three-week field course in the Appalachians and Rocky Mountains of Colorado, developing practical geological observation, mapping, and field investigation skills.
Electron Microprobe Laboratory: Explore advanced mineral and material analysis using electron microprobe instrumentation and related analytical techniques.
R. T. Hill Spatial Analysis Lab: Develop geospatial data analysis and mapping skills relevant to environmental research and resource management.
Tephra Lab: Explore volcanic ash and related geological materials through research opportunities supported by the university's geoscience facilities.
Micro-XRF Lab: Gain exposure to X-ray fluorescence techniques used to investigate the chemical composition of geological materials.
GIS and Remote Sensing: Develop practical skills through courses such as Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing Applications, using geospatial data to investigate environmental patterns.
Undergraduate Research: Work with geoscience faculty on topics including mountain-building processes, earthquake geology, volcanology, biogeography, dendrochronology, and climate change.
Research Employment: Explore opportunities to work in the electron microprobe laboratory, environmental geography laboratory, or as a teaching assistant, subject to available positions.
Research Travel: Students involved in faculty research may have opportunities to travel to locations such as Greenland, the Colorado Rockies, the Appalachians, and the Pacific Northwest.
SEAM Scholars Program: Eligible students can investigate the Science Engagement and Active Mentoring program, which provides scholarship support and research opportunities for qualifying STEM students.

Specific research placements, employment, funding, and travel opportunities depend on eligibility, project availability, and faculty supervision.

Official facilities and experiential learning source: Concord University's Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, Environmental Geosciences programme information, and Environmental Geosciences degree plan.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Environmental Geosciences B.S. prepares students for careers that combine scientific investigation, environmental assessment, geological analysis, and resource management. Graduates can pursue opportunities with government science agencies, environmental consulting firms, energy companies, water-resource organisations, and research institutions, using their fieldwork, laboratory, and geospatial skills to solve practical environmental problems.

Potential career paths include environmental scientist, geologist, hydrologist, and GIS analyst.

Students can strengthen their career prospects through the following opportunities:

Career Support Services: Concord University's Center of Academic and Career Development provides résumé and interview assistance, career-planning resources, workshops, job-search support, and access to Handshake for employment and internship opportunities.
Employment and Salary Information: The university reports that more than 95% of its recent Environmental Geosciences graduates found professional employment soon after graduation or before completing their degrees. It also cites a 2022 average annual salary of $92,000 for geoscientists, based on information from the American Geosciences Institute. The salary figure is occupation-wide and should not be interpreted as the guaranteed earnings of Concord graduates.
Government and Industry Opportunities: Concord identifies potential employment destinations including the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, American Electric Power, Environmental Resources Management, NASA, and other organisations. These are examples of employers of alumni, not necessarily formal university partners.
Research and Internship Experience: Faculty-led research, laboratory employment, fieldwork, and potential internships allow students to build relevant experience and professional connections. Students should consult their academic adviser about available placements and the timing of internship opportunities.
Professional Development: Coursework in GIS, remote sensing, field geology, and laboratory analysis helps students develop technical skills relevant to environmental assessment, geological investigations, and natural resource management.
Accreditation and Licensure: The university indicates that the curriculum leads toward professional geologist licensure eligibility. Students should verify the education, examination, and work-experience requirements of the state where they intend to practise, as these requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have pursued careers with government agencies, consulting firms, energy companies, research institutions, and other scientific organisations. The degree can also provide a foundation for postgraduate study in geosciences and related scientific disciplines.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the B.S., graduates can consider master's degrees in Geology, Environmental Science, Hydrogeology, Geospatial Science, Earth Science, or Environmental Management, depending on their interests and the entry requirements of their chosen institution. Students interested in academic or advanced research careers may pursue a Ph.D. in Geosciences, Earth Sciences, or a related discipline after completing the required postgraduate preparation. Those planning to become professional geologists should also review the licensing requirements applicable to their intended state or jurisdiction.