Bachelor of Science in Earth System Science (Bothell)

The Earth System Science (ESS) major at the University of Washington Bothell offers students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the planetary processes that create, change, or destroy livable habitats. Classroom activities and hands-on field research allows students to observe and interpret how the Earth’s atmosphere, ocean and land surfaces interact and impact human and environmental health. The ESS degree program is jointly administered by the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences (IAS) and the School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) with teaching and research contributions from faculty members in both schools. Students in the Earth System Science major are passionate about understanding the interrelationships among the physical, chemical, and biological components of the Earth. Students identify patterns that can help predict and protect against the future impact of global warming by broadening their interests in water, ice, soil, rocks, air, weather, plants, and animals. Using their background in Earth System Science, graduates from this major get hands-on experience using GPS and other remote sensing technologies to sustain and improve natural environmental resources. The major leads to jobs in government, research labs, science education, management, consulting, and environmental protection agencies.

To be eligible for full admission consideration, applicants must present the following: Completion of a college-preparatory course of study to include the following high school credits: a. 4 high school credits of English; b. 2 high school credits of a single world language; c. 3 high school credits of mathematics: algebra, geometry, and preferably trigonometry (a fourth high school credit of mathematical analysis or calculus is recommended forstudents preparing for majors in the sciences or engineering; d. 3 high school credits of socialscience; e. 3 high school credits of science, including 2 years of labscience; f. 1 senior-year math-based quantitative course; g. 0.5 high school credits of the fine, visual, or performing arts; h. 0.5 high school credits of electives taken from the above areas; One high school credit represents a standard full year of high school coursework.