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:

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.
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