Earth and Environmental Sciences

About Earth and Environmental Sciences

Through hands-on learning in the classroom and field, the StFX Earth and Environmental Sciences Department will help you follow your passion to learn about the natural processes that have shaped Earth’s evolution for over 4.6 billion years and continue to influence its modern environment. 

Earth and Environmental Sciences uses physical, chemical, biological, and mathematical methods to study the Earth’s materials, behaviour, history, and environment. 

You will study fascinating field topics such as the origin of the majestic Rocky Mountains, how human activities alter the movement of water and chemicals, the life and death of dinosaurs, climate change and greenhouse gases, and the origin and evolution of the oceans. 

Why study Earth and Environmental Sciences at StFX? 

Earth and environmental scientists find resources (such as the minerals used for your technology), measure and monitor environmental contamination in air, water, and soil, and work with and develop computer models for understanding climate change.  As a StFX Earth and Environmental Sciences student, you will have the opportunity to develop skills in data analysis, laboratory, and computer modelling.  

Some of the most exciting learning takes place in the field, where studies outdoor bridge the gap between textbook descriptions and actual occurrences. The StFX Earth and Environmental Sciences Department has a natural laboratory just steps away, where over 620 million years of geological history are exposed for study, and where you can access ecosystems from soaring hardwood forest, to tundra, to rivers and connected wetlands and coastal estuary.   

As one of the most research-intensive departments on campus, you will have abundant opportunity to work one-on-one with professors on cutting edge research projects that are regional, national, and international in scope. 

First year at a glance 

In your first year, you will be introduced to the composition and early history of the Earth and its atmosphere and oceans. You will study the environment and problems such as soil erosion, water resources, and contamination and climate change, as well as understand the Earth’s energy resources and the science behind natural hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. 

Future opportunities

The majority of Earth and Environmental Sciences majors have successfully moved on to graduate studies and/or Earth science related or teaching careers. The reasons are simple: Canada needs well-prepared thinkers to support its huge resource economy, and to prevent and manage environmental issues. 

Earth and Environmental Sciences at StFX will prepare you for graduate studies, as well as a wide range of careers in geosciences, climate science, environmental science, resources exploration and development, government, industry, and financial institutions, where geological and environmental knowledge is vital for investments and economic planning.