Bachelor of Science in Earth and Planetary Sciences

The Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) program, formerly Geology and Geophysics, prepares students for the application of scientific principles and methods to the understanding of the Earth system and other planets. Subjects range from the history of Earth and life to present-day environmental processes and climate change, the deep interiors of Earth and other planets, tectonic plates, oceans, atmospheres, climates, land surface, natural resources, and biota. The emphasis of the curriculum is on employing basic principles from the core sciences (physics, chemistry, and biology) to further an understanding of Earth's past and present, and addressing issues relating to its future. Students gain a broad background in the natural sciences, and select a specific track to focus their work on planetary or environmental phenomena of particular interest. The four B.S. tracks emphasize hands-on research experience in fieldwork, in laboratories, or in theoretical analyses and computer modeling. While some graduates continue on to research, consulting, or industrial careers in Earth, environmental, and planetary sciences, the major's broad scientific training prepares students for a wide variety of other paths, including medicine, law, public policy, and teaching.

Request recommendations from two teachers who have taught you in core academic subjects (e.g. English, Foreign Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies) who know you well, and who have seen you at your best. It is preferable, but not required, that recommendations come from teachers who have taught you during your final or next-to-final year of secondary school.Yale will extend its test-optional admissions policy to the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. All applicants for undergraduate admission for fall 2024 enrollment may apply with or without ACT or SAT scores.
The TOEFL requires pre-registration for available testing dates. Yale's most competitive applicants have scores of at least 100 on the internet-based TOEFL.
The IELTS offers proficiency tests in locations around the world. Pre-registration is required. Yale's most competitive applicants have IELTS scores of 7 or higher.