Academic Calendar 2006
(Old Programs)

Biological & Geological Sciences 153/154/155, Tel: (519) 661-3187

The Earth Sciences offer a unique perspective on the history of the Earth, its contained resources, life history, evolution, and environmental state. Earth Sciences play a key role in the world economy, which becomes more significant with increased demands for natural resources, and the needs for conservation and environmental responsibility. Earth Scientists now provide crucial input into modern resource exploration, provide fundamental insight into the workings of natural systems, and provide, from a global perspective, an appreciation for conservation needs and practices. At the undergraduate level, the aims of the department are (1) to ensure that our students are given the opportunity to obtain a basic understanding of Earth system processes, and (2) to prepare students for careers in the private and public sectors of the Earth Sciences discipline.

To accomplish these objectives, the Department has adopted an integrated, interdisciplinary approach that emphasizes concepts and processes, and conveys the wonder and excitement of discovery. We offer a variety of programs, including joint programs with other departments. Students may choose from Four-Year BSc programs in Geology and Geophysics, from Three-Year programs in Geology, Geophysics or Geology and Environmental Sciences (all with the option to proceed to Fourth Year Honors provided entry requirements are met), a Three year BA in Geology, and from joint Four-Year BSc Honors programs with the Departments of Applied Mathematics (Environmental Modelling), Physics and Astronomy (Planetary Sciences, Atmospheric Physics), Biology, Chemistry, and Geography (see Faculty of Social Sciences). We also participate in the Honors Science of Materials program (see Physics and Astronomy).

The Geology, Geophysics, and Geology and Environmental Science programs provide broad backgrounds in the Earth Sciences together with a quantitative background that can be used to meet Professional standing in Provinces with accreditation requirements. Earth Scientists are employed by companies engaged in exploration for and production of minerals and fuels, by government agencies in specialized projects, by companies involved in engineering and environmental projects, and by schools and universities. In fact, the increased content of Earth Sciences in both the primary and secondary sectors of education portend an increased need for qualified educators. Historically, the three year BA and BSc programs have been chosen by students intending to combine them with additional programs, such as business and law.

A number of Earth Sciences courses have been withdrawn, and new ones have been introduced. Students currently registered in programs offered by the Department should consult a departmental counsellor for information on appropriate substitutions.