Missouri University of Science and Technology (S&T) announced the rebranding of its geosciences and geological and petroleum engineering department. The department will now be known as the earth sciences and engineering department. The university completed an evaluation process analyzing feedback from students, professors, and alumni resulting in the name change.
“Earth sciences and engineering reflects a strategic pivot toward a more inclusive and forward-looking representation of the department’s academic and research activities,” said Stephen Gao, a Curators’ Distinguished Teaching Professor and chair of the department. “We also see it as a critical step toward attracting a wider pool of students.”
The department offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees in majors including geology and geophysics, geological engineering, and petroleum engineering. The program’s coursework includes classes on geospatial science and engineering, mineral and energy resource exploration and extraction, climate change, carbon sequestration, natural hazards mitigation, and natural resource management.
“The new name accurately encapsulates the breadth of our department’s missions and grants us enhanced flexibility to broaden our research and educational endeavors,” said Gao.