Appalachian State University
Environmental Science (BS) – Earth Systems Science
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
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Learn about transferring credits to App State
Discover a whole new environment.
Gain a diverse and practical set of skills in science, communication, critical thinking and leadership — enabling you to tackle any issue that impacts environmental aspects of our land, air and water systems.
App State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Environmental Science - Earth Systems Science equips those passionate about safeguarding and managing our environment with the requisite knowledge and skills needed to respond.
This is a science-intensive, cross-disciplinary experience that develops a strong background in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, statistics, geosciences, environmental policy and planning, and geographic information systems (GIS).
While an App State student, you’ll have domestic and international opportunities to go into the field to better understand pressing local and international environmental problems, equipping you with the hands-on skills needed to go directly into the workforce and solve these issues.
Our Earth Systems Science concentration includes appropriate coursework to take the Fundamentals of Geology exam, the first step toward earning Professional Geologist (PG) licensure.
App State offers the largest undergraduate geosciences department in the University of North Carolina System. Approximately 94% of our graduates are employed in some field within the geosciences and environmental sciences.
Before selecting your intended Geological and Environmental Sciences major, use this online table to help you decide if a degree in geology, environmental science or another program is the right major for you.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Elevate Your Education
Courses
Minors
A minor is optional. However, students must take at least 12 additional semester hours in concentration areas: Chemistry, Geophysical Sciences, and/or Biology.
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Air Pollution Analyst
- Air Quality Technician
- Botanist
- Conservation Land Manager
- Ecologist
- EPA Inspector
- Fisheries Conservationist
- Forester
- Ground Water Manager
- Habitat Manager
- Hydrologist
- Land Use Planner
- Natural Resource Manager
- Naturalist
- Nature Conservationist
- NEPA-certified Environmental Professional
- Park Ranger
- Park Resource Ecologist
- Public Health Worker
- Reforestation Specialist
- Research Assistant
- Resource Economist
- Soil Conservationist
- State Parks & Recreation Worker
- Various Positions with US and State Government
- Waste Management Technician
- Water Quality Technician
- Wildlife Biologist
- Wildlife Resources Worker
Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
Hands-on Research
Conduct cutting-edge research alongside faculty mentors. Learn more
State-of-the-art Facilities
Work in state-of-the-art research facilities outfitted with modern equipment. Learn more
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.