Department of Earth and Space Science
Ben Malphrus, Chair
101 Space Science Center
(606) 783-2381
Faculty
M. Chapman, E. Jerde, C. Mason, S. Reid
Science Education Faculty
R. Boram, W. Gonzalez-Espada, J. O'Keefe, E. Roland
Program Competencies
Students will be able to:
- Identify earth materials (minerals, rocks, fossils, sediments, soils, etc.).
- Map and correlate bodies of rock, sediment, and soil using surface and subsurface data.
- Understand the physical processes that shape the earth's surface and interior.
- Apply knowledge of modern geologic processes to interpret the geologic record.
- Understand methods used to explore for and develop mineral/petroleum/water resources.
- Assess the suitability of sites for the construction of buildings, roads, dams, landfills, septic systems, waste lagoons, etc.
- Understand methods used to monitor, reclaim, and remediate sites impacted by mining, improper waste disposal, leaking underground storage tanks, etc.
- Recognize existing or potential geologic hazards.
Assessment Procedures
Performance of graduates on discipline-specific exit exam(s)
Survey of alumni regarding employment, acceptance to graduate school, strengths of MSU's Earth Systems Science program, and weaknesses of the program
Survey of employers or graduate advisors