Earth Science Course
Features
Earth science has two faces: one, the romantic adventure of exploring the vast history of the Earth itself, dating back as far as 4.6 billion years; the other, social contribution addressing environmental issues and disaster prevention. Let us join together, study, and find solutions to the critical problems related to the Earth and the future of humankind.
About Earth Science Course
The Earth Sciences course provides education and research aimed at understanding many aspects of the environment surrounding humankind, with a broad vision. Subjects include the solid earth (internal and external), the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, and bodies of the solar system such as the sun and other planets. For example, combining various methods, we explore the true nature of the face of the solid earth, through the course of its dynamic change over the Earth's history of 4.6 billion years, as well as the history and origin of the entire solar system. In recent years, the world's attention has increasingly been focused on global environmental issues such as global warming; and in this course, we tackle this issue from a global point of view, through atmospheric and marine environmental research, along with investigation into the impact of solar activity on the Earth. On the other hand, many aspects of the course have been developed in light of social demands, and one of the course’s distinctive features is its direct contribution to society. For example, we are addressing global and local environmental problems, and dealing with disaster prevention and area development. Thus, the educational and research content of the course reflects two core aspirations, the romantic exploration of the vast history of the Earth, and service to present and future society. We welcome highly motivated students who are eager to learn about the Earth, the planets, and global environmental issues. Let us join together, study, and find solutions to the important problems related to the Earth and the future of humankind.
Education
In the first year, students take introductory classes to gain an overview of earth science. More advanced classes are offered in the second year and upper years. Our comprehensive curriculum covers all key aspects of earth science, with a distinctive focus on experiment, practicums, and field work. Students are expected to perform their own field research, observation, and data analysis, gaining through this experience a deeper and more sensitive understanding of earth science. In the third year, students choose one of two educational programs: the Earth and Planetary Science Program or the Earth System Science and Engineering Program. The Earth and Planetary Science Program focuses on nurturing the ability to expertly address global environmental issues and various natural phenomena, and to act independently as a member of society. The Earth System Science and Engineering Program offers training to become a specialist in fields closely related to earth science, such as environmental protection, sustainable development of nature, and disaster prevention. The latter program is accredited by the Japan Accreditation Board for Engineering Education (*). In both programs, students undertake graduation reserach in the fourth year, enhancing their specialized knowledge and logical thinking by focusing a single research theme, and developing their powers of expression by preparing a research presentation and dissertation. Those who wish to acquire advanced skills and knowledge can continue their earth science education in graduate school.
*What is the Japan Accreditation Board for Engineering Education?
The Japan Accreditation Board for Engineering Education (JABEE) (http://www.jabee.org/) accredits professional education programs that fulfill the standards for training international engineers. The Earth System Science and Engineering Program has been accredited by JABEE since 2007. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive the title of Engineer-in-Training.