Earth and Environmental Sciences

Program Overview

The Earth and Environmental Sciences program at St. Francis Xavier University offers a comprehensive exploration of the Earth's processes, history, and environment. Through hands-on learning, students gain a deep understanding of natural forces and their impact on the modern environment, preparing them for careers in geoscience, environmental consulting, and related fields. The program emphasizes field-based learning, research opportunities, and small class sizes, fostering a close-knit community of students and faculty.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Earth and Environmental Sciences program at St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) offers a comprehensive exploration of the Earth's processes, history, and environment. Through hands-on learning, students gain a deep understanding of how natural forces have shaped the planet and continue to influence its modern environment.

Objectives:

• Develop a strong foundation in the physical, chemical, biological, and mathematical aspects of Earth and environmental sciences.
• Cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address environmental challenges.
• Learn to collect, analyze, and interpret data from field and laboratory studies.
• Gain proficiency in using computer models and software for Earth science research.
• Develop effective communication skills to present scientific findings and engage with the public on environmental issues.

Program Description:

The Earth and Environmental Sciences program at StFX features a well-rounded curriculum that covers various aspects of the field, including:

• Geology: Examining the Earth's composition, structure, and history, including the formation of rocks, mountains, and other geological features.
• Oceanography: Studying the physical, chemical, and biological processes of the oceans, including ocean currents, waves, and marine life.
• Meteorology: Understanding the dynamics of the atmosphere, including weather patterns, climate change, and atmospheric pollution.
• Environmental Science: Analyzing the interaction between humans and the environment, including issues like pollution, resource management, and sustainability.

Unique Features:

• Field-based learning: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through field trips, fieldwork projects, and research opportunities.
• Natural laboratory: StFX offers a unique natural laboratory with over 620 million years of geological history exposed for study, encompassing various ecosystems.
• Research opportunities: Students have the chance to work closely with faculty on cutting-edge research projects, gaining valuable research experience.
• Small class sizes: StFX fosters a close-knit learning environment with smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and interaction with professors.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences
• Earth History and Evolution
• Environmental Systems and Processes
• Earth Materials and Resources
• Mapping and Remote Sensing
• Introduction to GIS
• Fundamentals of Chemistry
• Introduction to Physics
• Mathematics for Earth and Environmental Sciences

Year 2:

• Mineralogy and Petrology
• Structural Geology
• Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• Hydrogeology
• Geochemistry
• Environmental Geochemistry
• Paleontology
• Meteorology and Climatology
• Introduction to Oceanography

Year 3:

• Advanced Topics in Geology
• Advanced Topics in Environmental Science
• Field Methods and Data Analysis
• Environmental Modeling
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Groundwater and Surface Water Hydrology
• Coastal Processes
• Climate Change
• Energy Resources and Sustainability

Year 4:

• Capstone Project: Conduct an independent research project, thesis, or internship.
• Electives: Students can choose from a range of elective courses to tailor their program to their specific interests.

Assessment:

• Examinations: Traditional written exams may be used to assess knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
• Laboratory reports: Students demonstrate their ability to design, conduct, and analyze data from laboratory experiments.
• Fieldwork reports: Students present their findings and interpretations from field-based studies.
• Assignments and presentations: Throughout the program, students complete assignments and presentations to demonstrate their understanding and communication skills.
• Capstone project: Students are evaluated based on the quality and depth of their research, analysis, and presentation of their capstone project.

Teaching:

• Experienced faculty: The program boasts experienced faculty with expertise in various Earth and environmental science disciplines.
• Small class sizes: StFX's small class size allows for personalized attention and interactive learning.
• Inquiry-based learning: Courses emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving skills through inquiry-based learning approaches.
• Technology integration: Students utilize various technologies, including GIS, modeling software, and online resources, to enhance their learning experience.
• Field-based teaching: Field trips and fieldwork projects provide students with hands-on experience and direct observation of Earth processes.

Careers:

Potential career paths:

• Geoscientist
• Environmental consultant
• Hydrologist
• Climatologist
• Oceanographer
• Resource geologist
• Environmental engineer
• Environmental educator
• Policy analyst
• Research scientist

Opportunities:

• Many graduates pursue careers in government agencies, environmental consulting firms, energy companies, resource exploration companies, and research institutions.
• Graduates are also well-prepared for further studies in graduate programs in Earth and environmental sciences, environmental engineering, and related fields.
• The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the private, public, and academic sectors.

Other:

• The program offers a strong foundation for students who wish to pursue further studies in graduate programs or professional careers in the Earth and environmental sciences.
• StFX's location in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, provides students with access to a variety of natural environments for field studies, including forests, rivers, lakes, and the Atlantic Ocean.
• The program benefits from state-of-the-art facilities, including research labs, computer labs, and a dedicated Earth and Environmental Sciences library.
• The program fosters a close-knit community of students and faculty with shared interests in the Earth and environmental sciences.