Earth Sciences

Description: The Bachelor of Earth Sciences at the University of Ottawa offers students an in-depth understanding of the Earth's physical properties, processes, and systems. This comprehensive program is designed to provide a solid foundation in geology, geophysics, mineralogy, paleontology, and environmental science, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in resource exploration, environmental consulting, geotechnical engineering, and scientific research. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that explores the Earth's structure, the dynamics of plate tectonics, the formation and classification of minerals and rocks, and the Earth's evolutionary history through paleontology and stratigraphy. Practical laboratory sessions and fieldwork components are integral to the program, allowing students to develop hands-on experience in geological mapping, sample analysis, and data interpretation. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing students to solve complex Earth-related issues and contribute to sustainable management of natural resources. Opportunities for internships and research projects with industry partners or university labs enhance experiential learning and professional development. The curriculum is designed to adapt to ongoing advancements in Earth sciences and encourages interdisciplinary approaches, linking geology with environmental studies, geography, and geophysics. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to pursue graduate studies or to enter the workforce in sectors such as natural resource management, environmental assessment, disaster risk reduction, or academia. The Bachelor of Earth Sciences at the University of Ottawa is committed to fostering innovative inquiry and responsible stewardship of our planet, preparing students to become leaders in understanding and addressing global Earth systems challenges.

• MINERALOGY 
• ADVANCED IGNEOUS PETROLOGY
• GEOLOGY AND GEOCHEMISTRY OF ORE DEPOSITS 
• SILICICLASTIC SEDIMENTOLOGY
• CARBONATE SEDIMENTOLOGY
• PALEOBIOLOGY 
• GLACIAL AND PERIGLACIAL GEOLOGY
• ENVIRONMENTAL GEOSCIENCE
• ENVIRONMENTAL ISOTOPES AND GROUNDWATER GEOCHEMISTRY
• TECHNIQUES OF GROUNDWATER RESOURCES EVALUATION
• GEOCHEMISTRY OF NATURAL WATERS
• THEORY OF FLOW AND CONTAMINANT TRANSPORT IN GEOLOGICAL MATERIALS
• PRECAMBRIAN GEOLOGY
• COMPUTER TECHNIQUES IN THE EARTH SCIENCES
• TECTONIC PROCESSES EMPHASIZING GEOCHRONOLOGY AND METAMORPHISM
• CHEMISTRY OF THE EARTH
• STABLE ISOTOPE GEOCHEMISTRY
• RADIOISOTOPE GEOCHEMISTRY
• PHYSICS OF THE EARTH
• STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY
• TECTONICS 
• ENGINEERING SEISMOLOGY
• GEOPHYSICAL SIGNAL PROCESSING
• FIELD STUDIES
• SEMINARS IN EARTH SCIENCES
• PhD THESIS

Requirements

• Hold a related master's degree
• Application Fee:$100.00 ($CDN non-refundable)
• 2 Recommendation letter(s)
• Transcript
• Proof of proficiency in your program's language of instruction, in the case of applicants whose first language is neither English nor French
  Language proficiency test scores equivalencies:TOEFL 550 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 5.0 (Paper-based), TOEFL 79-80 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 5.0 (Internet-based)
• Resume
• A letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area.
• We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor.
• International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts.

Scholarships

• Full/Partial FGPS Scholarship
• Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
• Mitacs Globalink Fellowship

The Earth Sciences program at the University of Ottawa offers students a comprehensive education in the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape our planet. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the Earth's structure, composition, and the dynamic systems that influence the environment. It provides a strong foundation in the sciences, including geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and environmental science, to prepare graduates for careers in research, environmental consulting, resource management, and education. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, incorporating laboratory work, fieldwork, and data analysis. Students will learn about Earth's history, plate tectonics, mineralogy, hydrology, and climate change, equipping them with the tools necessary to analyze and address global environmental challenges. The program collaborates closely with local industries and research institutions, providing students with networking opportunities and hands-on experience through internships and research projects. Graduates of the Earth Sciences program are well-prepared to pursue further studies or to enter the workforce in fields related to natural resources, environmental protection, and scientific research. The program encourages critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of Earth's processes, fostering a responsible approach to managing our planet's resources. Overall, the Earth Sciences program at the University of Ottawa aims to develop knowledgeable, skilled, and environmentally conscious professionals who can contribute to solving real-world problems related to Earth's systems and sustainability.