Content: Undergraduate Major
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Why become an ESES major?
Changes in the Earth’s Environment and Societies are the issues that will define the 21st century. Understand these issues – and do something about them – with an Earth Systems, Environment and Society Bachelor of Science degree. ESES students understand both the scientific and the social issues that drive the planet and its environment.
Choose your Concentration
Learn about both the natural and social sciences that underlie the Earth System – and then specialize in the track that interests you. Learn more..
Individual Programs and Flexible Courses
ESES advisors will work with you to craft your own academic program – study the subjects that interest you. In the ESES program you’ll have the freedom to pursue your favorite electives without overloading your schedule. Learn more...
Career Opportunities
ESES majors have the academic training and credentials that provides both respect in the workplace and entry to advanced degrees programs in the arts, law, and the sciences. Learn more...
Academic Excellence and Capstone Experience
The ESES curriculum combines a broad exposure to diverse subjects with a deep understanding of your specialized discipline – a modern liberal arts and sciences degree that develops your mind as well as your reputation. ESES majors also get credit for real world experiences. Learn more...
How to Apply
Formally, you can apply at LAS's Student Academic Affairs Office, 270 Lincoln Hall, or the General Curriculum Center, 912 S. Fifth St., Champaign.
If you'd rather find out more about the program first, or just see how the major fits with your past courses and future plans, why not come by and see the academic advisor? You can just drop in (rm 428, Natural History Building; Tuesday afternoons are set up for walk-ins) or arrange an appointment that suits your schedule (email tomkin@uiuc.edu). Feel free to send any general inquiry about the ESES major to the advisor: Dr. Jonathan Tomkin at tomkin@uiuc.edu.
Planning Guides and more Information
Get detailed planning guides to help you navigate your progress towards a degree. Learn more...
Graduate Programs
The departments in the school offer Master and PhD degrees that specialize in a variety of aspects of the Earth System - our students go on to become professors, scientists, consultants and more. The different programs also offer a range of financial support - tuition wavers, fellowships, research and teaching assistantships. Learn more..
SESE Departmental Majors
The departments within the school also house their own majors. Students who wish to specialize in the physical aspects of the atmosphere - climate, meteorology, remote sensing and atmospheric chemistry - should consider the new Atmospheric Sciences major. The Geography department has majors that allow specialization in general, human, physical, and environmental geography, as well as geographical informational systems. The Geology major has a range of geology, geophysics, and environmental geology options, as well as an Earth Science teaching major.
Other Majors of Potential Interest
The University of Illinois has many undergraduate programs that are concerned with parts of the Earth's physical, biological and social systems. For example, students interested in specializing in such fields as Soil and Water Science, Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Horticulture, Forestry, or Plant Science might be interested in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) program.