The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is excited to announce a new major in climate system science! The climate system science major is designed for students who are interested in how the past, present, and future climate system works and in solution strategies for the rapidly accelerating climate crisis.
The overall goal is to establish the fundamental sciences at the core of the climate system, and to inspire solution-oriented analytical thinking and expertise. The flexible course structure combines geology, physics, biology, chemistry, and math with a core in climate system science and climate solution, justice, policy, and communication courses.
Climate system science majors begin with foundational courses in the climate system and introductory courses in global warming, oceanography or other relevant topics. Supporting courses include a grounding in calculus and natural sciences. Five climate core courses include both paleoclimate and modern climate requirements, as well as three other electives. Students pursue topics in climate solutions, policy, justice and communication in courses outside the sciences, in architecture, economics, political science or engineering. All climate system science majors are required to complete a capstone experience, which can include a field course or independent research project, typically at Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory with guidance from a leading climate scientist.
Departmental Offices:
556-7 Schermerhorn Hall Extension | 212-854-4525
106 Geoscience, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory | 845-365-8550
Directors of Undergraduate Studies:
Prof. Meredith Nettles and Prof. Terry Plank
Undergraduate Program Manager:
Anastasia Yankopoulos, 557 Schermerhorn Hall Extension
