Studying earth sciences at Carleton University provides the student with total immersion in a small, well-equipped department. The curriculum includes a strong hands-on component. Most degree programs include a mandatory second-year field camp north of Kaladar, Ontario. Fourth-year field courses are optional and are held in more exotic places where students can observe famous geological features first-hand. Past trips include Hawaii, Iceland, Antarctica and New Zealand, among others. View our past and upcoming field schools on our website.
The department is endowed with generous scholarships and internship opportunities. Every undergraduate student is eligible for one-time financial support for a 4000-level field course.
The Faculty of Science offers a fantastic opportunity for high achieving students who have just completed their first year of study. Dean’s Summer Research Internships (DSRI) are awarded throughout the faculty every year. Students contribute to the research program of a faculty member. The university also gives undergraduate students the opportunity to do research through a program called Internship-Carleton University Research Experience for Undergraduate Students (I-CUREUS). Students can apply to conduct paid research with a supervising faculty member during the regular academic year.
One of the advantages of being in Ottawa is the proximity to the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) and the Museum of Nature. Our students are very successful at gaining summer employment with the GSC through the Federal Student Work Experience (FSWEP) and Research Affiliiate (RAP) programs. Many of them continue on with part-time employment throughout the academic year, sometimes even through to graduation. Students in our Concentration in Vertebrate Paleontology can gain fantastic experience by volunteering directly with a research scientist at the Museum of Nature. This can lead to the student's own original research under the scientist's supervision, and even presenting that research at an academic conference.
Earth sciences is a regulated profession in the province of Ontario and in most other areas of the country. The Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO) is the local governing body. After graduation, alumni can apply to the APGO to work toward the P.Geo. designation.
We offer the following programs which meet the APGO's knowledge requirements: