Earth System Science

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Earth System Science
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Earth System Science

M.S., Ph.D., Earth System Science

Earth System Science at UAF is a multidisciplinary degree program that provides the option for a disciplinary concentration in one of eight topics:

  • Sustainability
  • Ecosystems
  • Hydrology
  • Atmospheric and Climate Sciences
  • Cryosphere
  • Solid Earth Geophysics
  • Geoscience
  • Geospatial Science

The ESS program involves faculty participation from six departments and programs:

  • Natural Resources and Environment
  • Center for Cross-Cultural Studies
  • Biology and Wildlife
  • Civil, Geological, and Environmental Engineering
  • Atmospheric Sciences
  • Geosciences

and five research institutes:

  • Institute of Agriculture/Natural Resources and Extension
  • Institute of Arctic Biology
  • Institute of Northern Engineering
  • International Arctic Research Center
  • Geophysical Institute.

Minimum Requirements for Earth System Science Degrees: M.S.: 30 credits; Ph.D.: 26-41 credits.

Programs

Degrees

Courses

Earth System Science (ESS)

ESS F492P      Seminar
1 Credit

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 98 times for up to unlimited credits

ESS F601      Introduction to Earth System Science
3 Credits

Offered Fall

Today’s wicked problems require a systems approach. Understanding the Arctic from this viewpoint will help the next generation better navigate cross-disciplinary problem solving. This course introduces students to Alaska and the Arctic topics through lectures, discussions, and a team project to build Earth Systems Science thinking.

Prerequisites: Graduate Standing.

Special Notes: Students who take this course will develop a basic understanding of the concept of systems science with a focus on Alaska and the Arctic.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 3 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Letter Grades with option of Plus/Minus

ESS F602      Best Practices for Research in Alaska
1 Credit

Offered Spring

This seminar-style course is designed to help students plan and execute field projects, from permitting to sample curation. Guest speakers will address preparation and execution of projects at sites throughout Alaska. Topics include land ownership, stakeholder involvement, transportation, freezing temperatures and safety considerations at remote sites.

Lecture + Lab + Other: 1.5 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

ESS F692P      Seminar
1 Credit

Lecture + Lab + Other: 0 + 0 + 0

Grading System: Pass/Fail Grades

Repeatable for Credit: May be taken 98 times for up to unlimited credits

Visit the Earth System Science Faculty Page