Working with AC earth science professors has its advantages, because they incorporate their professional experiences into the classroom. Professor Forest Haines has worked in the oil industry, and is currently researching carbonate sedimentary rock in the western United States. Professor Hanson has worked in the mineral exploration industry, and is currently researching dormant volcanoes in Arizona. In addition, she recently identified two new complex oxide minerals, one from Maine and one from Colorado.

If you take Natural Disasters with Professor Hanson, you’ll learn how hurricanes have devastated the Gulf Coast, how people live with earthquakes in California, and why volcanoes are a threat to the northwestern United States. Disasters like these can affect our way of life, even in Michigan. A natural disaster striking Michigan is something for the class to ponder. What would your life be like if a major disaster were to strike your hometown?

The mission of the Earth Science department is to provide a firm foundation for careers related to energy, resource allocation, the environment, or for a career in teaching. You can also gain a thorough background in geology to pursue graduate degrees. The department has an extensive rock, mineral and fossil collection, GIS capability, a microscope lab, and a well-equipped sample preparation lab. Field trips in upper-level geology classes give students the chance to see geologic features first-hand. You will travel to such places as West Virginia, Arkansas, and West Texas. The Geology Club also sponsors trips to various locations throughout the United States.