Department of Environment, Geosciences, and Emergency Management
College of Science and Technology
Building on a legacy. Shaping the Future.
For more than 55 years, our programs have prepared students to understand the world around them, address complex environmental challenges, and serve communities through science, research, and leadership. Today, we are proud to begin a new chapter as the Department of Environment, Geosciences, and Emergency Management. By bringing together the strengths of Geography, Geology, Meteorology, and Emergency Management, our department creates a dynamic and interdisciplinary home for exploring the connections between people, places, Earth systems, and community resilience.
Our faculty and students investigate Earth's geologic processes, weather and climate systems, environmental change, natural hazards, sustainability, geospatial technologies, and emergency preparedness. Together, we seek solutions to some of society's most pressing challenges—from natural disasters and climate impacts to resource management and community planning.
With an enrollment of more than 200 undergraduate students, our department offers rigorous and engaging academic programs in Earth Science Education, Emergency Management, Environmental Earth Sciences, Geography, Geology, Meteorology, and Ocean Sciences. Grounded in scientific inquiry and applied learning, our programs prepare students to understand Earth's dynamic systems, investigate environmental and societal challenges, and develop solutions that promote resilient and sustainable communities. We are committed to providing students with meaningful hands-on learning experiences that bring classroom concepts to life. Students have opportunities to engage directly with Earth and environmental systems through activities such as launching weather balloons during winter storm events, collecting and analyzing geologic samples to investigate Earth's history, and conducting field research in coastal environments at our Chincoteague Bay Field Station. These experiences are complemented by advanced technical training, where students develop in-demand skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, data analysis, and scientific programming using languages such as Python, IDL, and FORTRAN. Together, these field and laboratory experiences prepare graduates to excel in a wide range of scientific, environmental, and public service careers.
Join us at the Department of Environment, Geosciences, and Emergency Management where you will find a supportive and stimulating environment where your curiosity can fluorish.
HIGHLIGHT VIDEO OF MU environment, geosciences, and emergency management DEPARTMENT
At MU, you are more than just a number. Learn how faculty care for their students and prepare them for their careers in the video above.