Undergraduate Information

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

  • This web page is meant to provide information and advice to students who have selected Earth and Environmental Sciences as their major or minor fields and to students interested in the courses offered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EaES). Much of this information is contained in the University of Illinois at Chicago Undergraduate Catalog , but this booklet provides finer points as well as some information not available elsewhere.
  • Reading this web page, you will realize the importance of defining your academic goals as early as possible. Adequate planning should help you meet the requirements of the College and those of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences in a minimum amount of time.
  • You are strongly advised to meet once a semester with the Undergraduate Student Advisor.
  • This web page will also give you information on the requirements of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences but you must also consult the UIC Undergraduate Catalog and meet with a college advisor.
  • PLEASE NOTE: the major requirements were dramatically revised beginning Fall Semester 2010.  The new requirements apply to all student declaring the major beginning with that semester. Students already in the major prior to that date have the option of fulfilling either the older or newer set of requirements. Note that there are also a number of courses that have been added, dropped, or modified (see section on EaES Course Information).
  • If any question arises from the reading of the handbook, or if you have any suggestion on how to improve it, feel free to contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies (Professor Roy Plotnick, 2454 SES, (312) 996-2111,  plotnick@uic.edu).
  • There are bulletin boards with relevant undergraduate information in the hallway. Check them often for jobs, internships, scholarships, etc.
  • As a major, you will receive mail from the EaES Majors list. The Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) and Department Head both send out periodic e-mailings of interest to undergraduates using this list. If you are not signed up, please see the DUS. 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE MAJORS

University and College Requirements. These listed courses should be completed, as far as practicable, by the end of your sophomore year.

1.1 English Composition (ENGL 160 and 161 -- 6 hours)

It is required that the 6 hours of English Composition be taken as early in your student career as possible, because the reading and writing skills provided by these courses are needed for every other course you will take. The English Department runs a Writing Center that has had good success in helping people to gain an acceptable level of reading and writing ability. It is up to you to go to the Writing Center for help (100 Douglas Hall, 312-413-2206). The Language Laboratory also provides training for foreign-language students and other students needing additional study in English (these facilities are located on the third floor of Grant Hall). You can also find help at the Academic Center for Excellence (312-413-0031).

1.2  Foreign Language Requirement

Four semesters (or the equivalent) of a single foreign language at the college level. You can choose any language offered at UIC.

1.3  LAS Course Distribution Requirements: For Students Who Entered Before Fall 2007

9 semester hours in the Social Sciences, 9 in the Humanities, and 13 in the Natural Sciences. The collateral requirements of the Earth and Environmental Sciences major guarantee that the Natural Science requirement is fulfilled.

Warning: Course work from one discipline (department) may be used to satisfy the requirement in only one of the three areas. There is a large number of options with which to satisfy the course distribution requirements. In the area of Humanities and Social Sciences any 3 courses listed from at least two departments will fulfill the requirement.

1.3.1  Social Sciences

Students must successfully complete at least 9 semester hours from the Social Sciences. Students must take courses from at least two departments. The 9 hours of Social Science courses can be filled in a great variety of ways. If you have no strong personal preference for any single Social Science discipline, we recommend that you take some of the following courses: Geography 141, 231, 241; Anthropology 100, 102; Economics 120,121; Political Science 101, Urban Panning and Policy 202. Such a diverse selection will help to provide you with a broad background to complement your Earth Sciences training.

1.3.2  Humanities

Students must successfully complete at least 9 semester hours from the Humanities list of courses; students must take courses from at least two departments. You are free to take courses that appeal to you personally.
Note: Students should make certain they have satisfied the prerequisites for humanities courses before enrolling in them. Check the UIC Undergraduate Catalog for prerequisites.

1.3.3  Natural Sciences

The collateral requirements for Earth and Environmental Sciences majors meet the Natural Sciences requirements of the college for the degree of Bachelor of Science (15 credit hours).

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1.3.4  Cultural Diversity Requirement

Three semester hours that may count toward the Humanities and Social Sciences requirements. Refer to the Undergraduate Catalog for a list of appropriate classes. We suggest that you choose a course that will count toward the Humanities and Social Sciences requirements of the College. These courses are marked.

1.4  LAS Course Distribution Requirements: For Students Who Entered After Fall 2007

UIC has instituted a new General Education Program. The new program is effective for freshman matriculating at UIC in the Fall 2007 semester and for transfer students in the Fall 2009 semester. Continuing students have the option of using either the old or new requirements. The General Education Core now includes the following six categories:

  • Analyzing the Natural World
  • Understanding the Individual and Society
  • Understanding the Past
  • Understanding the Creative Arts
  • Exploring World Cultures
  • Understanding U.S. Society

You must take at least one course in all six categories. A complete description of these areas, and the courses that are included within each, is at: http://www.uic.edu/ucat/catalog/GE.shtml

1.5 Major Requirements - For students beginning Fall Semester 2010:

1.5.1 Required Collateral Science and Math

For a good undergraduate education in Earth and Environmental Sciences, the required courses in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics or Biology are at least as important as your Earth and Environmental Sciences courses. If you learn your chemistry, math and physics well, your performance in upper level EaES courses will be greatly enhanced. Furthermore, if you apply to graduate school, some graduate departments will give less weight to your EaES grades than to your chemistry, math and physics grades because your performance in these courses is a good indicator of your potential as a modern researcher. The classes required for a major in Earth and Environmental Sciences meet the quantitative reasoning requirement of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for a Bachelor of Science.

1.5.1.1 Chemistry

CHEM 112 and 114 or 130 are required. The placement test given by the department of Chemistry will give you an idea of your readiness for these classes. If you did not have chemistry in high school or if you feel that your high school chemistry did not prepare you adequately for CHEM 112, you should first take CHEM 101. Note that you cannot take EAES 320 (Mineralogy) unless you have credit in CHEM 112, or at least are registered in CHEM 112 at the same time.  

1.5.1.2 Mathematics

We require 2 semesters of Calculus (MATH 180 and 181). Note, however, that Calculus makes heavy use of algebra and trigonometry. The Mathematics Department gives placement tests to determine your readiness for Calculus. Unless you performed well on the placement test, you must first take some or all of the following: MATH 020, MATH 070 (Elementary Math), MATH 120 (Algebra), MATH 121 (PreCalculus).

In view of the length of the math sequence, if you have to take algebra and trigonometry it is advisable to begin satisfying this requirement as soon as possible. It is essential that you work for good grades in the calculus for several reasons. First, your skill in the calculus will determine to a large degree how well you do in the Physics 141-142 sequence. Second, your performance in the first math course will affect how well you do in the next, and so on. The third reason why good calculus grades are important is that graduate departments regard your math ability as the most significant indicator of your promise as a researcher.

1.5.1.3 Physics and Biology

We require at least 8-10  hours of Physics and/or Biology. There are various options for satisfying this requirement: 

  • One year of Physics: The 105/106-107/108 sequence or the 141-142 sequence. The Physics 105/106-107/108 sequence does not require calculus as a prerequisite. You should take the 141-142 option if your calculus skills are reasonably good. If you exercise this option, it is wise to arrange your calculus courses to overlap with the Physics sequence. Your performance in calculus will probably benefit from the insight you gain regarding the usefulness of calculus in solving problems in the real world.
  • One semester of Physics and one semester of Biology.  The Physics can be either 105/106 or 141.  The Biological Science courses can be either 100 or 101.  Note that we strongly urge, however, that students complete the entire year's sequence in Physics, whether or not they take Biology. 

1.5.2 EaES course requirements

The required courses within EaES are composed of a set of six core courses and  five to six additional selective courses chosen from four groups. Note that these are minimal requirements for graduation; additional courses are not formally required, but which we strongly advise you to take some anyway.

1.5.2.1 Core courses

The core requirements (20 hours) are:

  • EaES 101–Global Environmental Change (4 hrs)  
  • EaES 111–Earth, Energy, and the Environment (4 hrs)  (previously 102)
  • EaES 200–Fieldwork in Missouri (2 hrs)
  • EaES 230–Earth Materials (4 hrs)
  • EaES 285–Earth Systems (4 hrs)
  • EaES 290–Current Topics in Earth and Environmental Sciences (2 hrs) (previously 390)

1.5.2.2  Selective courses

The selective courses total at least 19 hours, with at least one course from each>of four groups.  Once a course is taken from each of the four groups, the 19 hour requirement can be met by taking , with permission of the Director of Undergraduate Studies, one relevant course offered in other departments,  these courses must be at the 200 level or above (see below).  

  • Group I: Solid Earth Materials
    • EaES 320–Mineralogy (4 hrs)
    • EaES 422–Crystal Chemistry (3 hrs)
    • EaES 430–Petrology (3 hrs)
  • Group II: Surface Environments and Processes
    • EaES 350–Sedimentary Environments (3 hrs)
    • EaES 470–Environmental Geomorphology (4 hrs)
    • EaES 475–Hydrology/Hydrogeology (3 hrs)
  • Group III: Geochemistry and Geobiology
    • EaES 360–Introduction to Paleontology (4 hrs)
    • EaES 415–Environmental Geochemistry (4 hrs)
    • EaES 416–Organic Geochemistry (3 hrs)
    • EaES 418–Introduction to Biogeochemistry (3 hrs)
    • EaES 466–Principles of Paleontology (3 hrs)
  • Group IV: Geophysical and Mathematical Methods
    • EaES 440–Structural Geology and Tectonics (3 hrs)
    • EaES 444–Geophysics (3 hrs)
    • EaES 448–Plate Tectonics (3 hrs)
    • EaES 480–Statistical Methods in the Earth and Environmental Sciences (3 hrs)
    • EaES 484–Planetary Science (3 hrs)
    • Summer course in field methods (4–6 hrs) -  with approval from Director of Undergrduate Studies

Examples of courses in other departments that can be used to satisfy the 19 hour requirement; you must be able to satisfy any prerequisites prior to taking these courses:

  • Ecology and Evolution (BioS 230)
  • Homeostasis: The Physiology of Plants and Animals (BioS 240)
  • Organic Chemistry (CHEM 232/233, 5 hours; 234, 4 hours)
  • Environmental Chemistry (CHEM 305; 3 hours)
  • Management of Solid and Hazardous Wastes (CME 423, 3 hours)
  • Principles of Environmental Health Sciences (EOHS 400, 3 hours)
  • Environmental Calculations (EOHS 405, 2 hours)
  • Air Quality Management (EOHS 431, 3 hours)
  • Air Quality Laboratory (EOHS 438, 2 hours)
  • Geographic Information Systems (GEOG 481/482, 4 hours each)
  • Women and the Environment (GWS 412; 3 or 4 hours)

1.6  Major Requirements -For Students Enrolled Prior to Fall 2010

1.6.1 Required Collateral Science and Mathematics Courses

For a good undergraduate education in Earth and Environmental Sciences, the required courses in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics are at least as important as your Earth and Environmental Sciences courses. If you learn your chemistry, math and physics well, your performance in upper level EaES courses will be greatly enhanced. Furthermore, if you apply to graduate school, some graduate departments will give less weight to your EaES grades than to your chemistry, math and physics grades because your performance in these courses is a good indicator of your potential as a modern researcher. The classes required for a major in Earth and Environmental Sciences meet the quantitative reasoning requirement of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for a Bachelor of Science.

1.6.1.1 Chemistry

CHEM 112, and 114 are required for the Specialization in Earth Sciences. CHEM 112 and 130 or 114 are required for the Specialization in Environmental Earth Sciences. The placement test given by the department of Chemistry will give you an idea of your readiness for these classes. If you did not have chemistry in high school or if you feel that your high school chemistry did not prepare you adequately for CHEM 112, you should first take CHEM 101. Note that you cannot take EAES 220 (Mineralogy) unless you have credit in CHEM 112, or at least are registered in CHEM 112 at the same time.

1.6.1.2 Mathematics

We require 2 semesters of Calculus (MATH 180 and 181) for both specializations in Earth Sciences and Environmental Earth Sciences. Note, however, that Calculus makes heavy use of algebra and trigonometry. The Mathematics Department gives placement tests to determine your readiness for Calculus. Unless you performed well on the placement test, you must first take some or all of the following: MATH 020, MATH 070 (Elementary Math), MATH 120 (Algebra), MATH 121 (PreCalculus).

In view of the length of the math sequence, if you have to take algebra and trigonometry it is advisable to begin satisfying this requirement as soon as possible. It is essential that you work for good grades in the calculus for several reasons. First, your skill in the calculus will determine to a large degree how well you do in the Physics 141-142 sequence. Second, your performance in the first math course will affect how well you do in the next, and so on. The third reason why good calculus grades are important is that graduate departments regard your math ability as the most significant indicator of your promise as a researcher.

1.6.1.3 Physics

We require 8-10 hours of Physics for the Specialization in Earth Sciences. This requirement can be satisfied in two different ways: The 105/106-107/108 sequence or the 141-142 sequence. The Physics 105/106-107/108 sequence does not require calculus as a prerequisite. If you are unsure of your future specialization, in principle you should take the 141-142 option if your calculus skills are reasonably good. If you exercise this option, it is wise to arrange your calculus courses to overlap with the Physics sequence. Your performance in calculus will probably benefit from the insight you gain regarding the usefulness of calculus in solving problems in the real world.

We require 4 to 5 hours of Physics for the specialization in Environmental Earth Sciences (PHYS 105/106 or 141). We strongly urge, however, that students complete the entire year's sequence.

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1.6.2  Earth and Environmental Sciences Course requirements

In order to obtain a sound basic background in Earth Sciences, you are required to take a minimum of 38 semester hours in Earth and Environmental Sciences courses. There are many courses offered which are not formally required for graduation, but which we strongly advise you to take anyway.

There are two specializations: Earth Sciences (ES) and Environmental Earth Sciences (EES).

1.6.2.1 Courses required of all majors; either in ES or EES

  • EAES 101. Exploring the Earth's Surface (5 hours).
  • EAES 102. Exploring the Earth's Interior (5 hours). (now 111)
  • EAES 220. Mineralogy (4 hours).
  • EAES 390. Current Topics in Earth and Environmental Sciences (2 hours).

1.6.2.2 Courses required for the specialization in Earth Sciences

12 credit hours to be chosen from:

  • EAES 410 - Introduction to Geochemistry (4 hours)
  • EAES 330 - Introduction to Petrology (4 hours)
  • EAES 350 - Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (4 hours)
  • EAES 360 - Introduction to Paleontology (4 hours),

and,

  • EAES 400 - Field Experience in Earth Sciences (6 hours)
  • EAES 440 - Structural Geology and Tectonics (4 hours)

Students in this specialization are strongly encouraged to enroll in EAES 200 - Field Work in Missouri (2 hours)

1.6.2.3 Courses required for the specialization in Environmental Earth Sciences

  • EAES 200 - Field Work in Missouri (2 hours)
  • EAES 410 - Introduction to Geochemistry (4 hours)
  • EAES 475 - Hydrology/Hydrogeology (4 hours)

and 8 credit hours to be chosen from:

  • EAES 350 - Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (4 hours)
  • EAES 440 - Structural Geology and Tectonics (4 hours)
  • EAES 470 - Surficial Processes (4 hours)
  • EAES 480 - Statistical Methods in Geology (4 hours)

and 3-4 credit hours from one additional upper-level course in the department

and 5-6 credit hours in the field of environmental studies.

Classes in the field of environmental studies must be chosen in consultation with the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences undergraduate advisor. These classes can be chosen from those offered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences such as Organic Geochemistry (EAES 416) or Environmental Geochemistry (EAES 415), but other departments of LAS and other Colleges offer classes acceptable to fulfill the Environmental Studies requirement. We advise you to consider choosing classes from departments other than Earth and Environmental Sciences as they can diversify your curriculum and complement the classes offered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Here are some examples, but review carefully the Undergraduate Catalog and discuss suggestions with the undergraduate advisor.

  • An appropriate course in Biological Sciences
  • Organic Chemistry (CHEM 232/233, 5 hours; 234, 4 hours)
  • Environmental Chemistry (CHEM 305; 3 hours)
  • Management of Solid and Hazardous Wastes (CME 423, 3 hours)
  • Principles of Environmental Health Sciences (EOHS 400, 3 hours)
  • Environmental Calculations (EOHS 405, 2 hours)
  • Air Quality Management (EOHS 431, 3 hours)
  • Air Quality Laboratory (EOHS 438, 2 hours)
  • Geographic Information Systems (GEOG 481/482, 4 hours each)
  • GWS 412 Women and the Environment (3 or 4 hours)

Note that most of these classes have prerequisites, but some of these prerequisites can be used to fulfill the Humanities and Social Sciences requirements. Thus, it is preferable to organize your class schedules a long time in advance.

1.7 College 60 Hour, 40 Hour Advanced Course and 30 Hour Residency Rules

As a requirement for graduation, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences stipulates that every graduating student must have taken a minimum of 40 credit hours at the 200, 300, and 400 levels at a 4-year institution; these may include hours in the major. The courses needed to fulfill this requirement, beyond the advanced EAES courses already listed, can be in any discipline; however, as you approach graduation, you will probably find two or three other advanced EAES courses that will provide you with the specialization you desire, in addition to satisfying the College requirement. Warning: It is easy to reach your senior year still taking 100-level courses and as a consequence fail to satisfy this requirement. The college also requires that your last 30 hours of course work must be completed at UIC and that you complete at least 60 hours after reaching junior status must be at a 4-year institution.  This last rule means that you should not take courses at a community college after your sophomore year.

1.8  Semesterly advising

The Department urges all its majors to go to the Undergraduate Advisor for consultation once a semester. This rule is meant to help the student devise a good curriculum, and to protect the student from making mistakes in course selection. Dr. Roy Plotnick is the Director of Undergradaute Studies (DUS); his office is 2454 SES, and his campus phone is 6-2111 and e-mail is plotnick@uic.edu. The best time for advising is by the twelfth week of the semester, when you have received your Advance Registration materials.

To successfully comply with the College and the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences requirements is sometimes a difficult exercise. Avoid surprises during your Senior year by seeking advice very early in your curriculum. Earth and Environmental Sciences minors must also consult with the DUS.

1.9  Declaration of Major

We highly recommend that you declare your major as soon as possible. It is a LAS requirement that you declare your major by the end of your sophomore year. To declare your major, see the Undergraduate Advisor.

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2. COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Students who want to minor in Earth and Environmental Sciences must take 18 credit hours, chosen with approval of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences undergraduate advisor. A maximum of 10 credit hours may be at the 100 level. EAES 200 is required. At least 9 credit hours must be taken at the 200 level or above. The courses we usually recommend are EAES 101, EAES 111, EAES 200, 230 and 285.

Earth and Environmental Sciences minors must consult the Undergraduate Advisor of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. The advisor can help you chose the courses most appropriate to fulfill your objectives and most appropriate to complement your major.

3. EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES COURSES

Not all of the classes offered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences are described in the following sections. Please refer to course description in the Undergraduate Catalog  or more extensive course descriptions on our departmental website. We invite you to meet with the instructor of the classes you choose or with the Undergraduate Advisor if you have any question regarding the schedule, the substance or the structure of the classes. Please see the timetable for when courses are offered and the name of the instructors.

CORE COURSES

  • EAES 101 and 111 provide you with an introduction to the planet Earth and current issues in environmental science, and do not have to be taken in sequence; you may take 111 first. 101 focuses on the earth's surface and its evolution; 111 looks at the earth's interior and its evolution.  These courses are taught both Fall and Spring Semesters
  • EAES 200. This course is taught only during the week-long Spring Break. Taught in the Ozark Mountains of southeastern Missouri, EAES 200 gives you an overview of field geology early in your undergraduate career. It is good preparation for more advanced summer field courses.

During the Spring Semester that you have signed up for EAES 200, the class has three 2-hour meetings to instruct you how to prepare for the field trip. Expect to spend about $250-$300 for the trip, for the following expenses:

  • a. Most of your travel expenses (The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences pays for the remainder). In recent years the students are assessed a $200 field trip fee.
  • b. Motel fees. We arrange for cheap but reasonable housing, and you will share a room with 1, 2 or 3 other students, each of you paying (in recent years) $10 to $12 per night, for a total cost of $70-$84. We do not camp for two good reasons. First, the weather during that time of the year is highly unpredictable, and blizzards and ice storms have been known to happen. Second, we need all the available daylight to do field work, and cannot afford to waste time setting up tents and cooking.
  • c. You pay for your own meals. Depending upon your appetite and financial condition expect to spend $10 to $15 per day, for a total food cost of $70-$100.

Your grade is based mainly on a report which is usually due no later than the end of the eleventh week of the semester. 

  • EaES 230 Earth Materials (4 hrs). Introduction to physical and chemical properties of earth materials, as well as their distribution, through lectures and laboratory exercises. Prerequisite(s); Grade of B or better in EAES 101 and EAES 111 or consent of the instructor. Fall semester
  • EaES 285 Earth Systems (4 hrs). Earth systems and global change; global processes, greenhouse gases and global warming; geologic hazards; energy and the environment; human impact on the physical environment; geology of waste management. Prerequisite(s): EAES 101 or 111; or consent of the instructor. Spring semester
  • EAES 290. Current Topics in Earth and Environmental Sciences. This two credit-hour course can only be taken after completion of a least one 100-level course in Earth Sciences. It is a seminar course on current issues. It will introduce you to reading, critical interpretation, and writing of scientific papers (instructor: varies; spring semester). This course will fulfill the Writing-in-the-Discipline requirements of the College. Fall semester

SELECTIVE COURSES

  • EAES 320. Mineralogy: Only taught in the Spring  Semester, this 4 credit-hour course has a prerequisite of CHEM 112 (either earned or concurrent). (Guggenheim)
  • EAES 350. Sedimentary Environments Spring semester. (Kenig)
  • EAES 396. Independent Research. Before registration, students must submit a written statement from the instructor with whom they wish to work to the Department Head. Independent research and a resulting undergraduate thesis are required for graduation with Departmental Distinction. Most of the time the research associated with that type of project take place during summer. Financial support may be available on funded projects. 
  • EAES 415.  Environmental Geochemistry. (Sturchio)
  • EAES 416. Organic Geochemistry. Fall semester.  
  • EaES 418. Introduction to Biogeochemistry (Meyer-Dombard)
  • EAES 422 . Crystal Chemistry  (Guggenheim)
  • EAES 430. Petrology, has EAES 320 for a prerequisite,
  • EAES 440. Structural Geology and Tectonics  A one-weekend field trip is required. (Stein)
  • EAES 444. Solid Earth Geophysics. (Stein)
  • EAES 448. Plate Tectonics. (Stein)
  • EAES 466. Principles of Paleontology. (Plotnick)
  • EAES 470. Environmental Geomorphology (Forman). 
  • EAES 475. Hydrology/Hydrogeology ( Doran).
  • EAES 480. Statistical Methods in Earth and Environmental Sciences. (Plotnick) 
  • EAES 484. Planetary Science (Dombard)
  • EAES 492. Internship in the Earth and Environmental Sciences. Off campus participation in governmental or private-sector training program. Credit is contingent on submission of a final report. (A maximum of 6 hours of EAES 492 and EAES 396 can be credit for degree).
  • EAES 494. Special Topics in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Can be repeated for credit. 

Blackboard Course Info: Most UIC courses now have online information through the Blackboard Course Information System.

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4. THURSDAY SEMINARS

The Department holds a weekly seminar every Thursday at 4 P.M., usually in Room 138 or 238 SES. Speakers are either prominent researchers from other universities, government or industry; or one of our own faculty members. The purpose of the seminars is to provide a forum for the dissemination of new ideas, new concepts and new developments in the earth and environmental sciences. Seminars begin with a brief departmental meeting, where faculty and students can make announcements of general interest. The Department never schedules classes from 3 to 5 on Thursday afternoons, in order to allow as many of our graduate and undergraduate students to attend the seminar. Keep this block of time open if at all possible when you register for classes. The seminar is preceded at 3:30 with free refreshments served in the department lounge.

The list of speakers and dates of their presentation is posted in numerous places in the hallways of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. You can also check the department seminar schedule.

5.  DEPARTMENTAL AWARD AND DEPARTMENTAL DISTINCTION

Every year, the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences awards a small fellowship to an undergraduate student. This rewards both "good citizenship" within the Department and academic achievement. The student is chosen by the Department faculty.

To be recommended for graduation with Departmental Distinction a student must have a grade point average in mathematics and sciences courses of 3.20 or better, 3.50 or better for high distinction and 3.70 or better for highest distinction as well as superior performance in EAES 396 (Independent Research).

6. COMPUTERS AND COMPUTER CONNECTION

6.1 Computer account creation and e-mail, access to computers across campus, and Blackboard.

All registered students will be assigned a netid upon enrollment.  Each student must activate his/her netid. See the ACCC website for more information including location of public computer labs,  the UIC Web for Students for information on how to register for classes, access personal information, etc., and Blackboard for web-based information on many of your classes, including real-time grade information

6.2 EaES Mailroom Computer  

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences provides access to a computer for printing purposes in the department mailroom. This facility is for use by both graduate students and undergraduate EAES majors and minors ONLY.

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7. PLANNING AHEAD FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL

In modern life the Bachelor's degree does not guarantee a professional career in any college discipline. Some companies, especially environmental firms, do hire a few graduates with only BS degrees; however, this cannot be depended upon. Furthermore, most jobs performed by BS degree holders are usually limited to routine, technological operations. Thus, if you wish to pursue a career as a professional in the field of Earth and Environmental Sciences, graduate training at least through the MS degree is highly desirable. The curriculum undertaken by the UIC undergraduate, if executed with good grades, should facilitate your admission into graduate school. Generally, if you are accepted by a graduate department with high credentials, you will also obtain free tuition and a modest stipend. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO PERFORM WELL IN MATH, CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS! We cannot over-emphasize this!

We generally advise our own BS graduates to go to another university for graduate work. After having been thoroughly exposed to our biases and views, it will broaden your background to continue learning from other faculty. Remember, a grade point average of at least "B", particularly in the math and science courses, is desirable. Normally, letters of recommendation from at least three of your professors must accompany your application. Attendance at Department and Terra Society functions and social events as well as independent research projects (EAES 396) provide faculty members with the opportunity to know you so they can evaluate you better in their letters of recommendation.

You should be making serious plans for your graduate career by your Junior year. Discuss your graduate career plans with the faculty members, who may advise you to take additional courses in our department, math, chemistry, physics, biology or engineering that may help provide you with a strong background for your desired specialty.

Most graduate schools require the GRE general exam (verbal/quantitative/analytical parts). Many graduate schools have deadlines as early as January 15th for applying for the fall semester and often send out acceptances in February/March. If you are considering graduate school, GATHER INFORMATION EARLY from the schools that you may want to consider. Also, plan on having your GRE scores available no later than early February.

In selecting a graduate department, shop for a program with a national reputation, and for graduate professors with whom you might want to study. It is wise to investigate the published works of people in the line of research that appeals to you before you apply. The departmental office has a copy of "Directory of Geoscience Departments" or you may find this on the American Geological Institute’s website. You will find this to be a useful guide for choosing a graduate school. Please, also consult with the departmental faculty member in your area of interest. The internet is also a very good tool to obtain information on the specifics of graduate school programs and potential advisors.

Financial aid to support you in your graduate studies is typically in the form of a teaching or research assistantship awarded by the department to which you are accepted.  Along with this comes a tuition waiver.  However, it is important to note that there are a few fellowships available that may provide funding at a higher level than the average TA or RA stipend.  Often these require that you apply while still an undergraduate or else before the end of your first year of graduate school, so it pays to start investigating these options now.  As examples of possible sources of fellowship funds please see the UIC Graduate College website on Funding Your Education.  Many of the fellowships described here are specific to UIC, but similar information will be available at the graduate schools you are interested in.

As a general rule, by the end of fall of your senior year you should have selected a handful of possible graduate schools. Early in the winter you submit the applications.  During spring, departments send letters of acceptance to successful applicants.

8.  CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Employment opportunities for students with BS degrees in Earth and Environmental Sciences are generally good, and because energy and environmentally-related problems are gaining more public attention, the future looks excellent. However, if earth and environmental science interests you as a profession, you should also consider graduate school. At the present time financial aid for graduate students in science is quite good. 

The Office of Career Sevices (OCS)  located in Room 3050 SSB (1200 West Harrison street) can help you find information on career issues. OCS provides various services including assistance in resume writing, resume referral, employment searching. OCS publications include helpful advises on good practices during job search. OCS regularly offers career preparation seminars. You should provide the Office of Career Services with your resume prior to your semester of graduation.

Some areas of employment and types of employers are as follows:

8.1 Oil Industry

The oil business has been the traditional employer of most geologists, but this situation is not true anymore. Now that virtually all of the giant oil fields have been discovered, it takes fewer geologists to find the oil tucked away in smaller fields. At present, the "oil glut" has depressed the oil business, and companies are hiring fewer people, but this is likely not to last very long. Most companies hire people with at least a Masters degree, and with a strong background in mathematics, computer programming, stratigraphy, geophysics, and field methods.

8.2 Environmental consulting

Environmental or engineering consulting firms in Chicago area (estimated to be more than 100) and throughout the US are hiring a significant number of geology students at all levels. Most small or medium size companies, however, tend to take their new hires at entry level. In general, students who have internship or similar work experiences would have better chances to find jobs in the environmental consulting industry. As a rule of thumb, good communication skills and a little field experience always help.

8.3 Mining Industry

This industry is highly dependent on the world market. For example, the price of most industrial metals except uranium is currently depressed, and hiring is very slow. Of course, if metal prices go up there will again be more jobs. The industry is highly cyclical, varying greatly from year to year.

8.4 Federal, State and Local Government

Environmental protection is creating an increasing number of jobs, particularly at the federal level, and this trend can be expected to continue. In addition, many municipalities hire geologists to evaluate building sites and the geology of highway routes.

The federal government hires bachelors, masters and Ph.D. level geologists for positions in a variety of agencies all over the U.S. Agencies include the Bureau of Mines, Bureau of Land Management, Department of Transportation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Forest Service, and the National Parks. If you're interested in working for the government, call the Federal Jobs Information Center at (312) 353-5136, or write to them at 219 S. Dearborn, Chicago, and ask for information pertaining to careers in the physical sciences to be sent to you. The information center is a service center set up to answer any questions you might have.

After receiving an application, you must decide what region(s) of the U.S. you would like to work in, and send the application(s) to the Civil Service Commission. You may send an application to any or all of the regional offices. Your application will then be filed for 18 months, and whenever a federal agency within that region has an opening for a geologist your file will be pulled. Each agency chooses among applicants, and if you are considered you will receive a "job inquiry as to availability", which is usually a job description with a response form to be completed by you. If you are not interested in the job, your file will be returned to the regional office. (An important detail is that you must promptly answer all correspondence if you want to continue to be considered for positions.) If you respond positively to a job inquiry, the agency will then (1) contact you either by phone or mail if you are in final contention for the position, or (2) send you a rejection letter.

The procedure requires patience and attention to detail, but will more than likely result in a job offer, and offers an alternative to the more "commonplace" positions to be found in industry.

8.5 Engineering Geology

Aside from environmental problems associated with engineering projects, engineering geologists are hired to evaluate soil and rock foundations and evaluate potential sources of building materials. Engineering geology, and hydrogeology are specialties properly learned only in graduate study. Many of our students have found jobs at local consulting companies.

8.6 Internships

We strongly recommend that students use part of their summer for internships. Oil companies and environmental companies regularly offer internships to advanced undergraduate students. These are good occasions to be confronted with the professional life of a geologist. Internships might help you to define more clearly your professional objectives or gather more closely your assumptions and expectations of professional life with reality.

During such internships, you will gain professional experience and develop your connections in the professional environment. All that can only be beneficial when you look for a job or a graduate school. Very often, environmental companies require a 40 hour Hazardous Waste safety course which meets the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Sometime, large companies or agencies will offer you such a course prior to the start of an internship.

Internships of long duration (6 months to a year) are also offered on regular basis to young graduates, or advanced undergraduate students, by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Good sources for internships include:

GeoCorps America offers temporary summer positions (10-12 weeks) working for national public lands (e.g., Park Service and Forest Service).

Environmental Careers Organization maintains a large listing of internships. It also provides a great deal of guidance on finding positions. Information in internships will be posted on the Undergraduate Information board outside SES 2459.

8.7 Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists

AEG is a professional organization serving professionals in engineering, environmental, and groundwater geology. The North Central section has monthly dinner meetings, many of which are held nearby. Students can attend at a substantial discount. This is a great place to network! Meetings will be posted and e-mail notifications will be sent by the Undergraduate Director.

9.  STUDENT ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE DEPARTMENT

A number of services are offered by the UIC Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs to help undergraduate students deal with personal and academic difficulties, such as eating disorders, sefl-defeating behavior, and stress or test anxiety. Training and seminars on Career development, assertiveness and study skills are also available.  These are located in the Student Services Building (SSB) on Harrison Street and include the following:

Another listing of students services can be found in the Online Student Handbook.

Note that the Counseling Service has an "InTouch HOT LINE", a telephone crisis intervention and referral service: (312) 996 5535 open all evenings from 6:00PM till 10:30PM.

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