Earth Science and Engineering
The Earth Science and Engineering Master of Engineering program at Cornell University offers a multidisciplinary and application oriented academic environment for students who want to understand geological processes, environmental systems, and the engineering methods used to address Earth related challenges. The curriculum integrates geophysics, hydrology, geochemistry, environmental engineering, and computational modeling, giving learners the opportunity to explore how natural systems behave and how engineered solutions can support resource development, environmental protection, and sustainable land use. With a strong emphasis on environmental systems, the program helps students develop the analytical and technical skills necessary to evaluate Earth processes, assess environmental impacts, and design engineering strategies that align with ecological and societal needs.
Throughout this two year program, students work closely with faculty who specialize in energy systems, water resources, climate science, geological engineering, and environmental assessment. Learners gain practical experience through field studies, laboratory work, and applied engineering projects, strengthening their competence in geological analysis, data interpretation, and environmental design. The academic structure emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, quantitative problem solving, and engineering application, enabling students to connect Earth science concepts with real world engineering challenges. This comprehensive preparation builds the scientific depth and engineering perspective needed to address issues such as resource sustainability, natural hazard mitigation, and environmental resilience.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Earth Science and Engineering
- Degree Type: Master of Engineering
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Environmental Engineering
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Earth Science and Engineering
• Geophysical Principles and Subsurface Analysis
• Environmental Data and Modeling Techniques
• Elective in Hydrology, Climate Science, or Geochemistry
Semester 2
• Water Resources Engineering
• Environmental Geomechanics
• Field Methods in Earth and Environmental Systems
• Elective in Energy Resources or Environmental Monitoring
Semester 3
• Advanced Topics in Earth Systems Engineering
• Climate and Environmental Risk Assessment
• Geological Engineering Laboratory
• Elective in Soil Systems, Remote Sensing, or Sustainability
Semester 4
• Master’s Engineering Project
• Applied Environmental Design and Evaluation
• Professional Development for Earth Engineers
• Elective in Advanced Earth Processes or Resource Engineering
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue impactful careers across environmental, engineering, and energy related sectors, frequently joining environmental consulting firms, geotechnical and geological engineering companies, water and resource management agencies, and energy and sustainability organizations. With strong analytical and technical preparation, they contribute to environmental impact assessments, hazard analysis, groundwater and resource evaluation, land development, and engineering design projects. Their multidisciplinary training enables them to support sustainable development, evaluate environmental risks, design Earth based engineering solutions, and participate in research and applied work across both private industry and public sector institutions.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students seeking to combine Earth science knowledge with engineering application, offering opportunities to develop advanced analytical capability and strong environmental insight supported by Cornell’s expertise in Earth and environmental engineering. Through fieldwork, laboratory study, and computational analysis, learners gain the ability to interpret natural systems, design sustainable engineering solutions, and address Earth related challenges with scientific precision and practical understanding. Its structured two year format provides depth, interdisciplinary exposure, and hands on experience, preparing graduates for meaningful careers in environmental engineering, resource management, and Earth system research.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
