Gain the analytical, technical, and communication skills you need to take on complex environmental issues with a Bachelor of Science in Geoscience degree online from Southern New Hampshire University. Our program gives you a strong foundation in the physical sciences with a focus on geography, geology, earth systems science, physics, chemistry, and spatial awareness.

"The significance of the geoscience field lies in the possibilities of what geoscientists can do to help protect our planet and predict what the future might hold," said Dr. Kelly Thrippleton-Hunter, technical program facilitator for science at Southern New Hampshire University. In the geoscience degree online, you'll learn how to analyze data and use the latest technology to study all aspects of the earth and present your findings. The skills and experience you obtain from our bachelor's in geosciences program can equip you to step into the professional world whether you want to make your mark in the lab or in the field."

Learn how to:

- Develop maps and products using geospatial data

- Use tools, technologies, and scientific principles to visualize and solve problems

- Recognize occurrences and patterns through qualitative and quantitative data

- Make ethically responsible geoscientific decisions

SNHU's online geoscience program also partners with SNHU’s campus Arboretum to provide a unique integrated learning experience. SNHUs Arboretum was even the proud recipient of the 2020 Online Learning Consortium (OLC) Effective Practice Award. The Arboretum encompasses over 24 acres of wetland ecosystems and some of the last remaining native forestland near central Manchester. As a living classroom, the Arboretum aims to inspire and develop citizens and leaders dedicated to understanding, appreciating, and sustaining our environment.

"The concept of the SNHU Arboretum has always been one of community education, said Mike Weinstein, founder, and manager of the project. Were fortunate enough to have the technology to extend that community to all of our learners, and maybe showcase to what extent the lines between a traditional campus and a virtual campus can be blurred."

Additionally, by demonstrating how conserved land can directly benefit people who may be across the globe, this type of project just adds to the already priceless work of protecting natural spaces. The BS in Geosciences gives you a solid foundation in the physical sciences with a focus on geography, geology, earth systems science, physics, and chemistry. Through our instructor-led lab courses, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience. The program emphasizes geoscience data for its uses in problem-solving and establishing policies that support public health and safety, effective resource management, and environmental protection.

You'll study topics such as:

- Chemistry. Gain foundational knowledge in the composition, structure, and properties of matter in the context of everyday life.

- Physics. Examine topics like energy, motion, force, gravity, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics.

- Geohazards. Explore the origin and evolution of disasters caused by natural phenomena such as tornadoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

- Geology. Learn about Earth's composition and structure by studying minerals and rocks, surface processes, introductory petrology, and plate tectonics.

- Atmospheric science. Understand weather and climate by applying fundamental principles in physics, chemistry, and fluid dynamics.

- Research methods. Become a better geoscience researcher by proposing research topics, conducting preliminary research, and developing a research proposal.

SNHU's online geoscience program gives you the opportunity to tailor your degree by adding a concentration or taking elective courses. After considering your interests, you might take courses in public administration, fiscal management, or even public health. Through this geoscience degree, you'll get to drive the direction of your studies. With interdisciplinary coursework, your assignments focus on real-world problems and skills that can then be applied outside of courses. Students also work with hands-on lab kits and may participate in volunteer, internship, and experiential learning opportunities that can further enhance their experiences, skills, and marketability.

SNHU's online geoscience program gives you the opportunity to tailor your degree by adding a concentration or taking elective courses. After considering your interests, you might take courses in public administration, fiscal management, or even public health. Through this geoscience degree, you'll get to drive the direction of your studies. With interdisciplinary coursework, your assignments focus on real-world problems and skills that can then be applied outside of courses. Students also work with hands-on lab kits and may participate in volunteer, internship, and experiential learning opportunities that can further enhance their experiences, skills, and marketability.

"The biggest thing that helped me through college is understanding the programs that I now use in my day-to-day job," said Wyatt Martensen '21, who works in mapping as a cartographer. "Southern New Hampshire University has the same software programs that I use at my job to make sure that the maps and the charts are up to date for mariners."

"You'll take courses designed by subject-matter experts in the field, and you'll learn from instructors who've worked in the industry. Each instructor did bring knowledge to the class based on their personal experiences and their specialty in that particular area of geoscience," said Mike Pinto '21. "My instructors were always there for help right away if I had any additional questions or if I didn't have a clear understanding of course content. They also posted announcements a couple of times per week to further explain each assignment." The convenience of the 24/7 online platform can help you succeed, as well."

"I am able to balance my school work and actual work in the military," said student Bethanie Thomas. "SNHU's flexible class schedules are key." In addition, online learners benefit greatly from the SNHUs Arboretum partnership, which provides increased access to undergraduate research and learning opportunities through a living classroom on more than 24 acres of wetland ecosystems and native forestland on the SNHU campus."

"The students have access to a growing network of environmental sensors throughout the Arboretum space, said project founder and manager Mike Weinstein. This includes equipment that provides real-time data on weather, forest soil characteristics (such as water content and temperature), and wetland parameters including streamflow metrics."

"Using real-world data provides our students with authentic learning opportunities that can help them practice their critical thinking skills and apply the scientific method, adds Dr. Kelly Thrippleton-Hunter, technical program facilitator for science at SNHU. They can utilize the arboretum data as a repository to collect specific data they may need to analyze and answer research questions that they pose and use those data to help explain real-world phenomena."

Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That's why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:

- Completed free undergraduate application

- Prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you

- Test scores are not required as part of your application Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.

$150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)