McGill University

Earth System Science

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Program Information

School:McGill University
Faculty:Faculty of Science
Degree:Bachelor
Field of Study:Geology/Earth Science, General
Description:Earth System Science (ESS) concentrates on the linkages between the biological, chemical, physical and human subsystems of the Earth. It focuses on the cycling of energy and matter through the biosphere, the atmosphere, the cryosphere, the hydrosphere and the solid earth, at time scales from days to billions of years. This new, integrated and holistic approach is needed to tackle the complex and challenging global problems facing the Earth today. It draws upon the expertise developed within disciplines such as Ecology, Environment, Geography, Geology, Meteorology and Oceanography.

The McGill program in ESS is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to address six "Grand Challenges" that are fundamental to our understanding of the way in which the Earth operates. These are: (1)Global biogeochemical cycles; (2) Climate Variability and Change; (3) Land use and land cover change; (4)Energy and resources; (5) Earth hazards, such as volcanoes, earthquakes and hurricanes; (6) Earth-atmosphere observation, analysis and prediction.
URL:Earth System Science at McGill University
Length:3 Year(s)
Careers:Managers in Natural Resources Production and FishingGeologistsPaleontologists

Admission Requirements

Grade for Entrance Previous Year (%)*92
Prerequisites:*These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
  •  Grade12 Mathematics  or  Grade12 Calculus and Vectors 
  • 2 of  Grade12 Chemistry  or  Grade12 Physics  or  Grade12 Biology 
  •  Grade12 English  or  Grade12 Français 
Applicants must have Biology - NYA (00UK); Chemistry - NYA, NYB (00UL, 00UM); Mathematics - NYA, NYB, NYC (00UN, 00UP, 00UQ); Physics - NYA, NYB, NYC (00UR, 00US, 00UT).
Test Scores:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (Paper Based) [min. 577] or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration) [min. 6.5] or Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) [min. 90]

* The entrance grade may change from year to year. Please contact the school for further information.

* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.

Modified on August 18, 2021