Earth Sciences – Online Minor
Engage in science and critical societal issues
Oregon State University's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and OSU Ecampus invite you to explore the complexities and interconnectivity of our dynamic and changing Earth.
Be prepared to meet 21st century challenges
The earth sciences minor will give you the knowledge base to make informed decisions on issues that affect exposure to geologic hazards such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, confront increasing demand for scarce earth resources such as water, minerals, and energy and promote environmental sustainability and climate security.
Coursework
The 27-credit earth sciences minor – with core courses in geology, oceanography, climate science and a broad range of electives – will provide you with a broad foundation in earth sciences and the opportunity to choose electives that complement their major.
Curriculum details are available on Oregon State's academic catalog.
Sample course topics
- Earthquakes
- Ecological biogeography
- Meteorology
- National park geology
- Natural hazards
- Volcanoes
- Water science and policy
Complement your major in a variety of fields
Earning a minor in earth sciences is a good fit for many undergraduate degree programs that touch upon earth resources, hazards, and environmental impacts including:
- Agricultural sciences
- Business administration
- Fisheries and wildlife sciences
- Geography and geospatial science
- Horticulture
- Natural resources
- Rangeland science
- Sustainability
NOTE: Earth science and environmental sciences majors at Oregon State are restricted from taking this minor.
Benefits of learning online with Oregon State
- All classes are developed by OSU's world-class faculty, who are renowned for their expertise, research and innovation.
- Oregon State is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
- As an Oregon State Ecampus student, you’ll receive the same certificate and transcript as OSU’s on-campus students.
Features and Navigation
Academic calendar
Currently it's fall intersession. See academic calendar for our quarter term schedule.
Fall term starts Sept. 27.
Winter term starts Jan. 8, 2024.
Ranked top 10 in the nation
OSU Ecampus earned a top 10 ranking for the ninth year in a row on a list of America's best online bachelor's programs. Learn more »