Carleton University · Sciences and mathematics

Earth Sciences

Reference year : 2026-27

Specializations and variants

Earth Sciences with Concentration in Environmental Geosciences B.Sc. Honours (20.5 credits)
Earth Sciences B.Sc. Major (20.0 credits)
Earth Sciences B.Sc. (15.0 credits)
Earth Sciences in Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoecology B.Sc. Honours (20.0 credits)
Earth Sciences in Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoecology B.Sc. Major (20.0 credits)
Earth Sciences and Physical Geography B.Sc. Combined Honours (20.0 credits)
Approved Electives - B.Sc. Earth Sciences and Physical Geography
Biology and Earth Sciences B.Sc. Combined Honours (20.0 credits)
Chemistry and Earth Sciences B.Sc. Combined Honours (20.0 credits)
Other information gathered

Program Requirements Course Categories for Earth Sciences Programs The program descriptions below make use of the following course categories that are defined in the Academic Regulations for the Bachelor of Science Degree section of this Calendar. Science Faculty Electives Advanced Science Faculty Electives Science Continuation Courses Science Geography Science Psychology Approved Courses Outside the Faculties of Science and Engineering and Design Free Elective Earth Sciences B.Sc. Honours (20.0 credits)

Other information gathered

Minor in Earth Sciences: Earth Resources and Processes (4.0 credits) The Minor is available to students registered in degree programs other than those offered by the Department of Earth Sciences. Students are required to present a Minor CGPA of 4.00 or higher at graduation in order to be awarded a Minor in Earth Sciences: Earth Resources and Processes. Requirements 1. 0.5 credit in: 0.5 ERTH 1002 [0.5] The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years 2. 1.0 credit from: 1.0 ERTH 2102 [0.5] Mineralogy to Petrology ERTH 2105 [0.5] Geodynamics ERTH 2314 [0.5] Sedimentation and Stratigraphy ERTH 2316 [0.5] Paleoecology 3. 1.5 credit in ERTH at the 2000-level or higher 1.5 4. 1.0 credit in ERTH at the 3000-level or higher 1.0 Total Credits 4.0 Earth Sciences (ERTH) Courses ERTH 1002 [0.5 credit] The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years Embark on a thrilling journey through Earth's epic history! Discover the groundbreaking events and powerful forces that shaped our planet, revealing the dramatic story behind the world we live in today. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 1004 , ERTH 1006 (no longer offered), ERTH 1009 (no longer offered), ERTH 1010 (no longer offered) and ERTH 1011 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): a 4U/M level in Advanced Functions and at least one of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Sciences or Physics are recommended. This course is for students who are enrolled in the Faculty of Science. Lectures three hours a week, a laboratory three hours per week, and a field excursion. ERTH 1004 [0.5 credit] Earth's Epic Tale: A Story Across Billions of Years Embark on a thrilling journey through Earth's epic history! Discover the groundbreaking events and powerful forces that shaped our planet, revealing the dramatic story behind the world we live in today. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 1002 , ERTH 1006 (no longer offered), ERTH 1009 (no longer offered), ERTH 1010 (no longer offered) and ERTH 1011 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): a 4U/M level in Advanced Functions and at least one of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Sciences or Physics are recommended. This course is for students who are not enrolled in the Faculty of Science except the Bachelor of Computer Science. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2004 [0.5 credit] Maps, Satellites and the Geospatial Revolution Introduction to the creation and use of maps using a variety of geospatial tools to better understand and resolve physical, social and environmental problems. Overview of geomatics (cartography and map design, geographic information systems, GPS, remote sensing). Also listed as GEOM 1004 . Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for GEOM 2004 (no longer offered). Lectures and laboratory, four hours a week. ERTH 2012 [0.5 credit] Planet Hollywood Earth Science concepts and content portrayed in Hollywood films are sometimes accurate but more frequently misrepresented. This course will examine popular Hollywood films to critically evaluate the Earth Science concepts and content that they present and directly compare them to the actual science. Online modules, bi-weekly film screenings and discussions four hours per week. ERTH 2102 [0.5 credit] Mineralogy to Petrology Chemical, optical and crystallographic properties of common rock-forming minerals, with introduction to common mineral assemblages of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3202 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 , CHEM 1001 , and CHEM 1002 . Lectures two hours a week and laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 2105 [0.5 credit] Geodynamics The structure, composition, and rheological properties of the Earth: lithosphere, mantle and core. Plate tectonics and its relation to geophysical fields, driving mechanisms, and processes at plate boundaries and in plate interiors. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3805 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 or GEOG 2013 . Lectures two hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 2106 [0.5 credit] Geochemistry This course looks at geochemical processes from deep Earth to surface environments, and the use of geochemical pathways in order to better understand the Earth’s history. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3003 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 , CHEM 1001 and CHEM 1002 . Lecture 1.5 hours per week, a laboratory three hours per week. ERTH 2312 [0.5 credit] Paleontology Introduction to macrofossil and microfossil groups, their paleoenvironmental significance, and principles of evolutionary paleoecology. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2316 , GEOL 2301 (no longer offered) and GEOL 2306 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 or GEOG 2013 . Lectures two hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 2314 [0.5 credit] Sedimentation and Stratigraphy Origin of sediments and their transport, distribution, and primary structures; processes of sediment-to-rock transformation; spatial patterns; controls of stratigraphy; methods of correlation. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2318 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 or GEOG 2013 . Lectures three hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 2316 [0.5 credit] Paleoecology Introduction to macrofossil and microfossil groups, their paleoenvironmental significance, and principles of evolutionary paleoecology. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2312 . Not available for credit in B.Sc. Earth Sciences programs. Lectures two hours a week. ERTH 2401 [0.5 credit] Dinosaurs A general introduction to dinosaurs, their place in evolution, their social behaviour, the Mesozoic landscape and extinction theories. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2402 [0.5 credit] Climate Change: An Earth Sciences Perspective An exploration of the often dramatic climate changes that have occurred through earth history from a geological perspective, emphasizing the history of earth climates, geological causes of climate change and impact that rapid climate change has had on the biosphere. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2422 . Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2403 [0.5 credit] Introduction to Oceanography An environmental approach to understanding the oceans; introducing the physical and biological aspects of oceanography, marine resources and marine pollution. Lectures three hours per week. ERTH 2404 [0.5 credit] Engineering Geoscience Applications of the basic concepts of geology, earth materials and earth processes to practical engineering and environmental science. Topics include rock and soil mechanics, slope stability, hydrogeology, geological hazards, and site investigations. Overview of related geophysical methods. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2414 (no longer offered), ERTH 1006 (no longer offered) and ERTH 1010 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): This course is restricted to students in the B.Eng program. Lectures three hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 2407 [0.5 credit] Structural Geology Structures and deformation of earth materials. Topics include stress, strain, folding and faulting. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3806 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 and ERTH 2102 . Lecture three hours a week and a laboratory 3 hours a week. ERTH 2415 [0.5 credit] Natural Disasters Physical characteristics and causes of natural disasters of geological origin such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunami, landslides, hurricanes and meteor impacts. Discussion on historical perspective, societal impact and mitigation strategies. Emphasis on Canadian case histories. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 1003 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): second-year standing in any degree program. With the exception of the Minor in Earth Sciences, available as a free elective only in any B.Sc. program, including Earth Sciences. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2419 [0.5 credit] On the Origin of Planets Origin and evolution of all planetary objects in the solar system. Topics include the geology of comets, asteroids, the terrestrial planets and rocky moons, Earth's formation and early evolution, ocean worlds, the search for exoplanets and detection of extraterrestrial life. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2420 [0.5 credit] UNESCO World Geoparks and Geoheritage Development of the geologic sciences and enhanced knowledge of the Earth and its history through the lens of inspiring and extraordinary global geological sites that have contributed significantly to science and culture. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2421 [0.5 credit] A Geologic Tour of the National Parks of North America An introduction to the geology of North America's National parks, the ultimate awe-inspiring educational experience, and how these parks collectively tell the story of the processes that have shaped the continent. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 2422 [0.5 credit] Drivers of Climate Change through Geological Time A survey of Earth's 4.5-billion-year climate history, focusing on the use of geologic data to understand the drivers of climate change and their impact on the development of the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. Course includes experiential learning assignments. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2402 . Lecture three hours per week; also includes additional online synchronous/asynchronous experiential learning practicum. ERTH 2802 [0.5 credit] Field Geology I Field analysis using geological, geophysical and computational methods leading to the interpretation of the origins of geological features and processes. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2314 and ERTH 2407 and permission of the department. Field work for two weeks off campus. A supplementary fee will apply. ERTH 3004 [0.5 credit] Igneous Petrology Origins and evolution of igneous rocks through partial melting, crystallization, degassing, and assimilation of host rocks. Phase diagrams and classification schemes will be used to provide systematic tools for the description and interpretation of igneous rocks. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2104 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2102 . Lecture three hours per week, a laboratory three hours per week. ERTH 3111 [0.5 credit] Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds Evolution of mammals, reptiles and birds. Emphasis on surveying amniote diversity, and the origin of key amniote transformations, as evidenced by the fossil record. Also listed as BIOL 3111 . Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 or BIOL 2001 . Lectures two hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 3112 [0.5 credit] Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians Evolution of fish and amphibians. Emphasis on surveying fish and amphibian diversity, and the origin of key transformations of these groups, as evidenced by the fossil record. Also listed as BIOL 3112 . Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 or BIOL 2001 . Lectures two hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 3113 [0.5 credit] Geology of Human Origins The origin and evolution of our species from geological, biological and cultural perspectives. The course traces human ancestry from our primate roots through time and changing environments, and explores controversies, frauds, and misperceptions. Prerequisite(s): any 1000 or 2000 level Earth Sciences or Biology course. Lectures three hours per week. ERTH 3114 [0.5 credit] Evolution of Mammals, Reptiles and Birds Evolution of mammals, reptiles and birds. Emphasis on surveying amniote diversity, and the origin of key amniote transformations, as evidences by the fossil record. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3111 and BIOL 3111 . Prerequisite(s): any 1000- or 2000-level Earth Sciences or Biology course. Lectures two hours per week. ERTH 3115 [0.5 credit] Evolution of Fish and Amphibians Evolution of fish and amphibians. Emphasis on surveying fish and amphibian diversity and the origin of key transformations of these groups, as evidenced by the fossil record. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3112 and BIOL 3112 . Prerequisite(s): any 1000- or 2000-level Earth Sciences or Biology course. Lectures two hours per week. ERTH 3204 [0.5 credit] Mineral Deposits Analysis and interpretation of the geological and geochemical processes responsible for mineral deposit genesis in a global context. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2102 and ERTH 2106 . Lectures two hours and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 3205 [0.5 credit] Physical Hydrogeology Principles of deep- to shallow fluid flow within the Earth's crust, and introduction to the exploration, development and management of groundwater as a global resource. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 1002 or GEOG 2013 . Lecture three hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 3207 [0.5 credit] Metamorphic Petrology and Processes Genesis of metamorphic rocks as determined from field, petrographic and geochemical data. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3202 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2102 . Lectures two hours a week, a laboratory three hours a week and a field excursion. ERTH 3405 [0.5 credit] Geophysical Methods An introduction to the tools of applied geophysics including seismology, electrical, magnetic, and gravitational surveying methods. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 2405 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2105 . Lecture two hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 3703 [0.5 credit] Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology This course looks at stable and radiogenic isotope systematics applied to different Earth environments. Students will delve into geochronological techniques and their applications, and apply the principles of elemental and isotopic fractionation to investigate several geological processes. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 4803 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2106 . Lecture 1.5 hours per week, a laboratory three hours per week. ERTH 3999 [0.0 credit] Co-operative Work Term ERTH 4003 [0.5 credit] Directed Studies in Earth Sciences One or more projects involving at least 15 days field and/or laboratory research, not related to thesis research. Assessment based on written reports and an oral presentation. Expenses for long-distance travel are borne by the student. Prerequisite(s): fourth-year standing in any B.Sc. Hons. or Combined Hons. program in Earth Sciences. Schedule to be arranged. ERTH 4004 [0.5 credit] Special Topics in Earth Sciences Field, laboratory or literature research, not related to thesis research. Assessment based on written reports and an oral presentation. Expenses for travel are borne by the student. Prerequisite(s): fourth-year standing in any B.Sc. Hons. or Combined Hons. program in Earth Sciences. Major CGPA 8.5 or higher at time of registration for the course. Schedule to be arranged. ERTH 4006 [0.5 credit] Field Environmental Geobiology Exploration of the relationship between micro- and macro-ecological and evolutionary processes and the Earth's physical and chemical environment. Paleobiology and evolutionary ecology in the context of paleoceanography, paleolimnology and/or paleoclimatology. Will include one or two weeks of field based instruction with costs borne by student. Prerequisite(s): 2nd year standing in a Faculty of Science program and permission of the Department. Field work off campus. ERTH 4007 [0.5 credit] Evolutionary Developmental Paleobiology This course explores the mechanistic basis of organismic evolution from genetic, morphogenetic and epigenetic perspectives, within a phylogenetic context of living and extinct vertebrates. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for BIOL 4007 . Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2312 or BIOL 2001 , and BIOL 2104 . Lectures or seminars three hours per week. ERTH 4008 [0.5 credit] Topics in Paleobiology and Evolution This multidisciplinary seminar course investigates various topics in paleobiology, paleoecology and evolutionary theory. Prerequisite(s): 3rd year standing in any Faculty of Science program. Lectures and seminar discussion, three hours per week ERTH 4107 [0.5 credit] Geotechnical Mechanics Soil composition and soil classification. Soil properties, compaction, seepage and permeability. Concepts of pore water pressure, capillary pressure and hydraulic head. Principle of effective stress, stress-deformation and strength characteristics of soils, consolidation, stress distribution with soils, and settlement. Laboratory testing. Also listed as CIVE 3208 . Prerequisite(s): ERTH 3405 . Lectures three hours a week, laboratory three hours alternate weeks. ERTH 4206 [0.5 credit] Contaminant and Remediation Hydrogeology Geochemical and physical processes controlling contaminant release, migration, and fate in groundwater along with the processes and techniques used for contaminant mitigation and remediation. Examples will include organic and inorganic contaminants in a variety of settings. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2106 and ERTH 3205 . Lectures three hours per week and a laboratory three hours per week. ERTH 4207 [0.5 credit] Environmental Isotopes Isotope applications in environmental and Earth sciences. Emphasis is placed current and novel environmental applications including contaminant tracing, hydrogeological studies, and (bio)geochemical cycling of elements. Mechanisms of stable isotope fractionation and analysis are presented. Student-led projects will explore the broad realm of isotope studies. Also listed as ENSC 4207 . Prerequisite(s): CHEM 1001 and CHEM 1002 , and fourth-year standing or permission of the department. Also offered at the graduate level, with different requirements, as ERTH 5403 , for which additional credit is precluded. lecture three hours a week. ERTH 4209 [0.5 credit] Mineral Exploration Field Geology Introduction to the essentials of conducting geological mapping campaign in the Canadian Shield in a field area that has seen considerable industry exploration for volcanogenic massive sulfide mineralization. Activities include outcrop and trench mapping, strain analysis, interpretation of geophysical data, drilling proposals, report writing. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 3209. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2407 or ERTH 3004 and ERTH 3207 . Field work for two weeks off-campus. A supplementary fee will apply. ERTH 4302 [0.5 credit] Frozen Earth: Unveiling the Snowball Earth Catastrophe Discover how icy cataclysms shaped our planet through Earth’s most extreme climate event: Snowball Earth! We will explore this theory's origins, examine compelling geologic and geochemical evidence, and dive into topics such as glacial sedimentology, the carbon cycle, evolution, and more on this thrilling adventure. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2314 or permission of the department. Also offered at the graduate level, with different requirements, as ERTH 5302 , for which additional credit is precluded. Lectures three hours per week. ERTH 4305 [0.5 credit] Advanced Sedimentary Geology and Earth History The origin, composition and diagenesis of sedimentary rocks throughout Earth history. Study of modern and ancient sedimentary systems; development of facies models; petrographic and geochemical analysis of sedimentary rocks. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 2314 . Lecture two hours a week and a laboratory three hours a week. ERTH 4507 [0.5 credit] Advanced Petrology Analysis of the physical and chemical conditions, rock-forming processes, as well as the tectonic settings, that control the formation of different rock types. May include one to two weeks of field-based instruction, with costs borne by the student. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 3207 . Field excursions, lectures or seminars three hours per week. ERTH 4801 [0.5 credit] Physics of the Earth The physical properties of the solid Earth. Gravitational, magnetic and palaeomagnetic fields; seismology and earthquake occurrence; heat flow and thermal history. Geodynamic processes. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 3405 . Also offered at the graduate level, with different requirements, as ERTH 5701 , for which additional credit is precluded. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 4807 [0.5 credit] Field Geology II Field camp integrating advanced field, theory and experimental data. Assessment is based on reports, seminars, and oral examinations. Part of the cost is borne by the student. Departmental funding assistance is available for only one 4000-level field course per student. Prerequisite(s): completion of the third-year Earth Sciences course requirements and permission of the Department. A supplementary fee will apply. Field work off campus. ERTH 4808 [0.5 credit] Vertebrate Paleontology Field Camp Field camp extends the student's vertebrate paleontological knowledge by integrating field, theory, and experimental data. Assessment based on written reports and seminars. Part of the cost is borne by the student. Departmental funding assistance is available for only one 4000-level field course per student. Prerequisite(s): ERTH 3111 or ERTH 3112 , and ERTH 3113 . A Major CGPA of 8.5 or higher and permission of the department. This course is only available to Undergraduate students enrolled in the BSc Earth Sciences with concentration in Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoecology Honours program. Field work for two weeks off campus. A supplementary fee will apply. ERTH 4815 [0.5 credit] Natural Hazards in Canada Overview of the main natural hazards (such as floods, landslides, forest fires, earthquakes) and severe weather phenomena (such as ice storms, hail, tornadoes) in the Canadian environment. Risk of catastrophic events and their impact on society and infrastructure. Prerequisite(s): third-year standing in earth science programs or permission of the department. Also offered at the graduate level, with different requirements, as ERTH 5215 and IPIS 5505 , for which additional credit is precluded. Lectures three hours a week. ERTH 4908 [1.0 credit] Honours Thesis Independent studies. Requires prior written approval of a topic from a supervisor and the course co-ordinator. Oral and written proposal, progress and defence reports are required. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 4909 , ERTH 4910 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): restricted to B.Sc. Honours and Combined Honours ERTH programs. Major CGPA 8.5 or higher at time of registration for the course. ERTH 4909 [0.5 credit] Research in Earth Sciences Understanding research methods, data interpretation and presentation, through readings, seminars and-or laboratory projects related to a topic selected by the student with approval of a faculty advisor. Precludes additional credit for Precludes additional credit for ERTH 4908 , ERTH 4910 (no longer offered). Prerequisite(s): restricted to B.Sc. Honours and Combined Honours Earth Sciences programs. Note: Not all courses listed are offered in a given year. For an up-to-date statement of course offerings for the current session and to determine the term of offering, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca . Summer session: some of the courses listed in this Calendar are offered during the summer. Hours and scheduling for summer session courses will differ significantly from those reported in the fall/winter Calendar. To determine the scheduling and hours for summer session classes, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca Regulations In addition to program requirements described here, students must satisfy: the University regulations (see the Academic Regulations of the University section of this Calendar), the Faculty regulations applying to all B.Sc. students including those relating to Science Continuation and Breadth requirements. Students should consult with the department, school or committee responsible for their program when planning their program and selecting courses. B.Sc. Regulations The regulations presented in this section apply to all Bachelor of Science programs. In addition to the requirements presented here, students must satisfy the University regulations common to all undergraduate students including the process of Academic Continuation Evaluation (see the Academic Regulations of the University section of this Calendar). Breadth Requirement for the B.Sc. Students in a Bachelor of Science program must present the following credits at graduation: 2.0 credits in Science Continuation courses not in the major discipline; students completing a double major are considered to have completed this requirement providing they have 2.0 credits in Science Continuation courses in each of the two majors; 2.0 credits in courses outside of the faculties of Science and Engineering and Design (may include ISAP 1000) In most cases, the requirements for individual B.Sc. programs, as stated in this Calendar, contain these requirements, explicitly or implicitly. Students admitted to B.Sc. programs by transfer from another institution must present at graduation (whether taken at Carleton or elsewhere): 2.0 credits in courses outside of the faculties of Science and Engineering and Design (may include ISAP 1000) if the student received fewer than 10.0 transfer credits; or, 1.0 credit in courses outside of the faculties of Science and Engineering and Design (may include ISAP 1000) if the student received 10.0 or more transfer credits. Declared and Undeclared Students Degree students are considered "Undeclared" if they have been admitted to a degree, but have not yet selected and been accepted into a program within that degree. The status "Undeclared" is available only in the B.A. and B.Sc. degrees. Undeclared students must apply to enter a program upon or before completing 3.5 credits. Change of Program within the B.Sc. Degree To transfer to a program within the B.Sc. degree, applicants must normally be Eligible to Continue (EC) in the new program, by meeting the CGPA thresholds described in Section 3.1.9 of the Academic Regulations of the University. Applications to declare or change programs within the B.Sc. degree must be made online through Carleton Central by completing a Change of Program Elements (COPE) application form within the published deadlines. Acceptance into a program, or into a program element or option, is subject to any enrolment limitations, and/or specific program, program element or option requirements as published in the relevant Calendar entry. Minors, Concentrations, and Specializations Students may add a Minor, Concentration, or Specialization by completing a Change of Program Elements (COPE) application form online through Carleton Central. Acceptance into a Minor, Concentration, or Specialization normally requires that the student be Eligible to Continue (EC) and is meeting the minimum CGPAs described in Section 3.1.9 of the Academic Regulations of the University , as well as being subject to any specific requirements of the intended Minor, Concentration, or Specialization as published in the relevant Calendar entry. Experimental Science Requirement Students in a B.Sc. degree program must present at graduation at least two full credits of Experimental Science chosen from two different departments or institutes from the list below: Approved Experimental Science Courses Biochemistry BIOC 2200 [0.5] Cellular Biochemistry BIOC 3103 [0.5] Experimental Biochemistry I: Principles and Practices BIOC 3104 [0.5] Experimental Biochemistry II: Research Experience BIOC 4001 [0.5] Methods in Biochemistry BIOC 4201 [0.5] Advanced Cell Culture and Tissue Engineering Biology BIOL 1103 [0.5] Foundations of Biology I BIOL 1104 [0.5] Foundations of Biology II BIOL 2001 [0.5] Animals: Form and Function BIOL 2002 [0.5] Plants: Form and Function BIOL 2104 [0.5] Introductory Genetics BIOL 2200 [0.5] Cellular Biochemistry BIOL 2600 [0.5] Ecology Chemistry CHEM 1001 [0.5] General Chemistry I CHEM 1002 [0.5] General Chemistry II CHEM 2103 [0.5] Physical Chemistry I CHEM 2203 [0.5] Organic Chemistry I CHEM 2204 [0.5] Organic Chemistry II CHEM 2302 [0.5] Analytical Chemistry I CHEM 2303 [0.5] Analytical Chemistry II CHEM 2800 [0.5] Foundations for Environmental Chemistry Earth Sciences ERTH 1002 [0.5] The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years ERTH 2102 [0.5] Mineralogy to Petrology ERTH 2404 [0.5] Engineering Geoscience ERTH 2802 [0.5] Field Geology I ERTH 3111 [0.5] Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds ERTH 3112 [0.5] Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians ERTH 3204 [0.5] Mineral Deposits ERTH 3205 [0.5] Physical Hydrogeology Food Sciences FOOD 3001 [0.5] Food Chemistry FOOD 3002 [0.5] Food Analysis FOOD 3005 [0.5] Food Microbiology Geography GEOG 1010 [0.5] Global Environmental Systems GEOG 3108 [0.5] Soil Properties Neuroscience NEUR 3206 [0.5] Sensory and Motor Neuroscience NEUR 3207 [0.5] Systems Neuroscience NEUR 4600 [0.5] Advanced Lab in Neuroanatomy Physics PHYS 1001 [0.5] Foundations of Physics I PHYS 1002 [0.5] Foundations of Physics II PHYS 1003 [0.5] Introductory Mechanics and Thermodynamics PHYS 1004 [0.5] Introductory Electromagnetism and Wave Motion PHYS 1007 [0.5] Elementary University Physics I PHYS 1008 [0.5] Elementary University Physics II PHYS 2007 [0.5] Second Year Physics Laboratory: Selected Experiments and Seminars PHYS 3007 [0.5] Third Year Physics Laboratory: Selected Experiments and Seminars PHYS 3606 [0.5] Modern Physics II PHYS 3608 [0.5] Modern Applied Physics Course Categories for B.Sc. Programs

Program pathways and conditions

These tables reproduce the source requirements for the indicated period. Official interpretation is the responsibility of the university.

Pathway 1
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (11.0 credits)
1. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
2. 4.5 credits in:4.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 2407 [0.5]Structural Geology
ERTH 2419 [0.5]On the Origin of Planets
ERTH 2802 [0.5]Field Geology I
ERTH 3004 [0.5]Igneous Petrology
3. 2.5 credits from:2.5
ERTH 3111 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds
ERTH 3112 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians
ERTH 3204 [0.5]Mineral Deposits
ERTH 3205 [0.5]Physical Hydrogeology
ERTH 3207 [0.5]Metamorphic Petrology and Processes
ERTH 3405 [0.5]Geophysical Methods
ERTH 3703 [0.5]Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology
4. 0.5 credit from:0.5
ERTH 4006 [0.5]Field Environmental Geobiology
ERTH 4209 [0.5]Mineral Exploration Field Geology
ERTH 4807 [0.5]Field Geology II
5. 2.0 credits in ERTH at the 4000-level2.0
6. 1.0 credit in:1.0
ERTH 4908 [1.0]Honours Thesis
B. Credits Not Included in the Major CGPA (9.0 credits)
7. 1.0 credit in:1.0
MATH 1007 [0.5]Elementary Calculus I
MATH 1107 [0.5]Linear Algebra I
8. 1.0 credit in:1.0
CHEM 1001 [0.5] & CHEM 1002 [0.5]General Chemistry I General Chemistry II
9. 1.0 credit in:1.0
Pathway 2
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (11.5 credits)
1. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
2. 4.0 credits in:4.0
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 2407 [0.5]Structural Geology
ERTH 2419 [0.5]On the Origin of Planets
ERTH 2802 [0.5]Field Geology I
GEOG 2013 [0.5]Weather and Water
3. 1.0 credit in:1.0
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 3204 [0.5]Mineral Deposits
4. 3.0 credits in:3.0
ERTH 3004 [0.5]Igneous Petrology
ERTH 3205 [0.5]Physical Hydrogeology
ERTH 3207 [0.5]Metamorphic Petrology and Processes
ERTH 3405 [0.5]Geophysical Methods
GEOG 3108 [0.5]Soil Properties
ERTH 3703 [0.5]Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology
5. 1.5 credit from:1.5
ERTH 4006 [0.5]Field Environmental Geobiology
ERTH 4008 [0.5]Topics in Paleobiology and Evolution
ERTH 4206 [0.5]Contaminant and Remediation Hydrogeology
ERTH 4207 [0.5]Environmental Isotopes
ERTH 4302 [0.5]Frozen Earth: Unveiling the Snowball Earth Catastrophe
ERTH 4815 [0.5]Natural Hazards in Canada
6. 0.5 credit in ERTH at the 4000-level0.5
7. 1.0 credit in:1.0
ERTH 4908 [1.0]Honours Thesis (in the field of Environmental Geosciences)
*See Note 1 below
Pathway 3
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (11.0 credits)
1. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
2. 4.5 credits in:4.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 2407 [0.5]Structural Geology
ERTH 2419 [0.5]On the Origin of Planets
ERTH 2802 [0.5]Field Geology I
ERTH 3004 [0.5]Igneous Petrology
3. 3.0 credit from:3.0
ERTH 3111 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds
ERTH 3112 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians
ERTH 3204 [0.5]Mineral Deposits
ERTH 3205 [0.5]Physical Hydrogeology
ERTH 3207 [0.5]Metamorphic Petrology and Processes
ERTH 3405 [0.5]Geophysical Methods
ERTH 3703 [0.5]Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology
4. 0.5 credits from:0.5
ERTH 4006 [0.5]Field Environmental Geobiology
ERTH 4209 [0.5]Mineral Exploration Field Geology
ERTH 4807 [0.5]Field Geology II
5. 2.5 credits in ERTH at the 4000-level2.5
B. Credits Not Included in the Major CGPA (9.0 credits)
6. 1.0 credit in:1.0
MATH 1007 [0.5]Elementary Calculus I
MATH 1107 [0.5]Linear Algebra I
7. 1.0 credit in:1.0
CHEM 1001 [0.5] & CHEM 1002 [0.5]General Chemistry I General Chemistry II
8. 1.0 credit in:1.0
PHYS 1007 [0.5] & PHYS 1008 [0.5]Elementary University Physics I Elementary University Physics II
9. 0.5 credit in:0.5
Pathway 4
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (8.0 credits)
1. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
2. 4.0 credits in:4.0
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 2407 [0.5]Structural Geology
ERTH 2419 [0.5]On the Origin of Planets
ERTH 2802 [0.5]Field Geology I
3. 3.5 credits in:3.5
ERTH 3004 [0.5]Igneous Petrology
ERTH 3111 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds
ERTH 3112 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians
ERTH 3204 [0.5]Mineral Deposits
ERTH 3205 [0.5]Physical Hydrogeology
ERTH 3207 [0.5]Metamorphic Petrology and Processes
ERTH 3405 [0.5]Geophysical Methods
ERTH 3703 [0.5]Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology
B. Credits Not Included in the Major CGPA (7.0 credits)
4. 1.0 credit in:1.0
MATH 1007 [0.5]Elementary Calculus I
MATH 1107 [0.5]Linear Algebra I
5. 1.0 credit in:1.0
CHEM 1001 [0.5] & CHEM 1002 [0.5]General Chemistry I General Chemistry II
6. 1.0 credit from:1.0
PHYS 1007 [0.5] & PHYS 1008 [0.5]Elementary University Physics I Elementary University Physics II
BIOL 1104 [0.5] & PHYS 1007 [0.5]Foundations of Biology II Elementary University Physics I
7. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 2004 [0.5]Maps, Satellites and the Geospatial Revolution
8. 0.5 credit in Science Continuation course (not ERTH)0.5
9. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ISAP 1000 [0.5]Seminar in Science (or approved course outside the faculties of Science and Engineering and Design)
Pathway 5
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (10.5 credits)
1. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
2. 2.5 credits in:2.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
3. 2.0 credits in:2.0
ERTH 3111 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds
ERTH 3112 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians
ERTH 3113 [0.5]Geology of Human Origins (See Note, below)
ERTH 4302 [0.5]Frozen Earth: Unveiling the Snowball Earth Catastrophe
4. 0.5 credit from:0.5
ERTH 4003 [0.5]Directed Studies in Earth Sciences
ERTH 4808 [0.5]Vertebrate Paleontology Field Camp
5. 1.0 credit in:1.0
ERTH 4908 [1.0]Honours Thesis
6. 4.0 credits from and to include 2.0 credits at the 4000-level:4.0
BIOL 3104 [0.5]Molecular Genetics
BIOL 3202 [0.5]Principles of Developmental Biology
BIOL 3501 [0.5]Biomechanics
BIOL 3605 [0.5]Field Course I
BIOL 3609 [0.5]Evolutionary Concepts
BIOL 3611 [0.5]Evolutionary Ecology
BIOL 3802 [0.5]Animal Behaviour
BIOL 4102 [0.5]Molecular Ecology
BIOL 4103 [0.5]Population Genetics
BIOL 4104 [0.5]Evolutionary Genetics
BIOL 4207 [0.5]Advanced Embryology & Developmental Biology
BIOL 4500 [0.5]The Biology of Birds
BIOL 4501 [0.5]The Taxonomy of Birds
BIOL 4502 [0.5]Herpetology
Pathway 6
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (10.5 credits)
1. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
2. 2.5 credits in:2.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
3. 2.0 credits in:2.0
ERTH 3111 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds
ERTH 3112 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians
ERTH 3113 [0.5]Geology of Human Origins (See Note, below)
ERTH 4302 [0.5]Frozen Earth: Unveiling the Snowball Earth Catastrophe
4. 0.5 credit from:0.5
ERTH 4003 [0.5]Directed Studies in Earth Sciences
ERTH 4808 [0.5]Vertebrate Paleontology Field Camp
5. 1.0 credit in ERTH at the 4000-level1.0
6. 4.0 credits from and to include 2.0 credits at the 4000-level:4.0
BIOL 3104 [0.5]Molecular Genetics
BIOL 3202 [0.5]Principles of Developmental Biology
BIOL 3501 [0.5]Biomechanics
BIOL 3605 [0.5]Field Course I
BIOL 3609 [0.5]Evolutionary Concepts
BIOL 3611 [0.5]Evolutionary Ecology
BIOL 3802 [0.5]Animal Behaviour
BIOL 4102 [0.5]Molecular Ecology
BIOL 4103 [0.5]Population Genetics
BIOL 4104 [0.5]Evolutionary Genetics
BIOL 4207 [0.5]Advanced Embryology & Developmental Biology
BIOL 4500 [0.5]The Biology of Birds
BIOL 4501 [0.5]The Taxonomy of Birds
BIOL 4502 [0.5]Herpetology
BIOL 4604 [0.5]Landscape Ecology
Pathway 7
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (13.0 credits)
1. 1.0 credit in:1.0
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
GEOG 1010 [0.5]Global Environmental Systems
2. 1.0 credit in:1.0
GEOG 2013 [0.5]Weather and Water
GEOG 2014 [0.5]The Earth's Surface
3. 2.5 credits in:2.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 2407 [0.5]Structural Geology
4. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 2802 [0.5]Field Geology I
5. 1.0 credits in:1.0
ERTH 3004 [0.5]Igneous Petrology
ERTH 3405 [0.5]Geophysical Methods
6. 0.5 credit from:0.5
ERTH 3205 [0.5]Physical Hydrogeology
GEOG 3103 [0.5]Watershed Hydrology
7. 1.0 credit in:1.0
ERTH 2004 [0.5]Maps, Satellites and the Geospatial Revolution
GEOM 3002 [0.5]Introduction to Remote Sensing
8. 2.0 credits from:2.0
GEOG 3003 [0.5]Quantitative Geography
GEOG 3010 [0.5]Field Methods in Physical Geography
GEOG 3102 [0.5]Geomorphology
GEOG 3104 [0.5]Principles of Biogeography
GEOG 3105 [0.5]Climate and Atmospheric Change
GEOG 3106 [0.5]Aquatic Science and Management
GEOG 3108 [0.5]Soil Properties
9. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 4302 [0.5]Frozen Earth: Unveiling the Snowball Earth Catastrophe
10. 1.0 credit in Science Geography or Geomatics courses at the 2000-level or above1.0
Pathway 8
Biology
BIOL 1103 [0.5]Foundations of Biology I
BIOL 1104 [0.5]Foundations of Biology II
Computer Science
COMP 1006 [0.5]Introduction to Computer Science II
Chemistry
CHEM 2103 [0.5]Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 2203 [0.5]Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 2207 [0.5]Introduction to Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 2501 [0.5]Introduction to Inorganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry
Mathematics
MATH 1005 [0.5]Differential Equations and Infinite Series for Engineering or Physics
MATH 2007 [0.5]Elementary Calculus II
MATH 2107 [0.5]Linear Algebra II
Physics
PHYS 2202 [0.5]Wave Motion and Optics
Statistics
STAT 2509 [0.5]Introduction to Statistical Modeling II
Pathway 9
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (12.0 credits)
1. 1.5 credits in:1.5
BIOL 1103 [0.5]Foundations of Biology I
BIOL 1104 [0.5]Foundations of Biology II
BIOL 2001 [0.5]Animals: Form and Function
2. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
3. 0.5 credit from:0.5
BIOL 2600 [0.5]Ecology
BIOL 3605 [0.5]Field Course I
4. 3.5 credits in BIOL or BIOC, with at least 1.0 credit at the 3000-level and 1.0 credit at the 4000-level3.5
5. 3.5 credits in:3.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2312 [0.5]Paleontology
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 3111 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Mammals, Reptiles, and Birds
ERTH 3112 [0.5]Vertebrate Evolution: Fish and Amphibians
ERTH 3113 [0.5]Geology of Human Origins
6. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 4302 [0.5]Frozen Earth: Unveiling the Snowball Earth Catastrophe
7. 1.0 credit in ERTH at the 4000-level1.0
8. 1.0 credit from:1.0
BIOL 4905 [1.0]Honours Workshop
BIOL 4907 [1.0]Honours Essay and Research Proposal
BIOL 4908 [1.0]Honours Research Thesis
ERTH 4908 [1.0]Honours Thesis
B. Credits Not Included in the Major CGPA (8.0 credits)
9. 1.0 credit in:1.0
MATH 1007 [0.5]Elementary Calculus I
MATH 1107 [0.5]Linear Algebra I
10. 1.0 credit in:1.0
CHEM 1001 [0.5] & CHEM 1002 [0.5]General Chemistry I General Chemistry II
11. 1.0 credit in:1.0
PHYS 1007 [0.5] & PHYS 1008 [0.5]Elementary University Physics I Elementary University Physics II
Pathway 10
A. Credits Included in the Major CGPA (13.5 credits)
1. 4.0 credits in:4.0
CHEM 1011 [0.5]Enriched General Chemistry 1
CHEM 1012 [0.5]Enriched General Chemistry 2
CHEM 2103 [0.5]Physical Chemistry I
CHEM 2104 [0.5]Physical Chemistry II
CHEM 2302 [0.5]Analytical Chemistry I
CHEM 2303 [0.5]Analytical Chemistry II
CHEM 2501 [0.5]Introduction to Inorganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry
CHEM 3503 [0.5]Inorganic Chemistry I
2. 1.0 credit in CHEM at the 4000-level1.0
3. 0.5 credit in:0.5
ERTH 1002 [0.5]The Earth and Life Odyssey: A Journey Through Billions of Years
4. 3.5 credits in:3.5
ERTH 2102 [0.5]Mineralogy to Petrology
ERTH 2105 [0.5]Geodynamics
ERTH 2106 [0.5]Geochemistry
ERTH 2314 [0.5]Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
ERTH 2407 [0.5]Structural Geology
ERTH 2419 [0.5]On the Origin of Planets
ERTH 2802 [0.5]Field Geology I
5. 2.0 credits in:2.0
ERTH 3004 [0.5]Igneous Petrology
ERTH 3204 [0.5]Mineral Deposits
ERTH 3207 [0.5]Metamorphic Petrology and Processes
ERTH 3703 [0.5]Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology
6. 0.5 credit from:0.5
ERTH 4006 [0.5]Field Environmental Geobiology
ERTH 4209 [0.5]Mineral Exploration Field Geology
ERTH 4807 [0.5]Field Geology II
7. 1.0 credit in ERTH at the 4000-level1.0
8. 1.0 credit from:1.0
CHEM 4907 [1.0]Honours Essay and Research Proposal
CHEM 4908 [1.0]Research Project and Seminar
ERTH 4908 [1.0]Honours Thesis
Pathway 11
Science Geography Courses
GEOG 1010 [0.5]Global Environmental Systems
GEOG 2006 [0.5]Introduction to Quantitative Research
GEOG 2013 [0.5]Weather and Water
GEOG 2014 [0.5]The Earth's Surface
GEOG 3003 [0.5]Quantitative Geography
GEOG 3010 [0.5]Field Methods in Physical Geography
GEOG 3102 [0.5]Geomorphology
GEOG 3103 [0.5]Watershed Hydrology
GEOG 3104 [0.5]Principles of Biogeography
GEOG 3105 [0.5]Climate and Atmospheric Change
GEOG 3106 [0.5]Aquatic Science and Management
GEOG 3108 [0.5]Soil Properties
GEOG 4000 [0.5]Field Studies
GEOG 4005 [0.5]Directed Studies in Geography
GEOG 4013 [0.5]Cold Region Hydrology
GEOG 4017 [0.5]Global Biogeochemical Cycles
GEOG 4101 [0.5]Two Million Years of Environmental Change
GEOG 4103 [0.5]Water Resources Engineering
GEOG 4104 [0.5]Microclimatology
GEOG 4108 [0.5]Permafrost

Courses

These courses were identified on the program source page. Their presence does not mean they are all required in every pathway.

Sources and references

Reference year : 2026-27

Dates and sources are retained to help you verify the information. Translations are provided to facilitate reading; the official source governs conditions and requirements.

Source reference : https://calendar.carleton.ca/undergrad/undergradprograms/earthsciences/

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