From its inception in 1983, the Ph.D. Program in Earth and Environmental Sciences has identified itself with "promoting teaching and research in the study of the earth." With faculty in atmospheric sciences, environmental sciences, geography and geology, the Earth and Environmental Sciences Program at the Graduate Center spans a broad array of subjects focusing on the earth, its environments, human activities, and the linkages between them. Our students have the unique opportunity to study both the physical and human environments simultaneously, or to focus on specific subjects within the program's specializations. Today, the faculty has a strong commitment to education and research in Geography and Environmental and Geological Sciences.

Most required courses and some special topics courses are conducted at the Graduate Center, while laboratory courses and research work are offered at the various campuses throughout CUNY.

Specializations

Environmental and Geological Sciences Specialization
The specialization in Environmental and Geological Sciences offers research opportunities in a broad spectrum of Earth-focused science, including topics of classical Geology; studies of Earth's fluid envelopes; and applying combinations of geology, biology, chemistry, and physics to studying Earth's diverse environments and their ecosystems. The program has four core areas: Atmospheric and Hydrologic Sciences; Terrestrial, Estuarine, and Marine Studies; Earth Materials and Earth Processes; and Urban Environments and Public Health. Read more.

Geography Specialization
The specialization in Geography provides an opportunity to pursue doctoral studies in one of the world's largest and most dynamic metropolitan locations with a diverse faculty at the Graduate Center and at Hunter and Lehman Colleges within the CUNY system. The program has five core areas: Geographic Information Science; Geography and Social Theory; Physical Geography; Urban and Regional Dynamics; and Geographic Education. Read more.