ABOUT EARTH SCIENCES
Through hands-on learning in the classroom and field, in the StFX Earth Sciences Department, will help you follow your passion to learn about the natural processes that have shaped Earth’s evolution for over 4.6 billion years, and continues to influences its modern environment.
Earth sciences uses physical, chemical, biological, and mathematical methods to study the Earth’s materials, behaviour, history and environment.
You will study fascinating field topics such as the origin of the majestic Rocky Mountains, the life and death of dinosaurs, climate change and greenhouse gases, and the origin and evolution of the oceans.
WHY STUDY EARTH SCIENCES AT STFX?
Often, the most important learning takes place in the field, where studies bridge the gap between textbook descriptions and actual occurrences. The StFX Earth Sciences Department has a natural laboratory just steps away, where over 620 million years of geological history are exposed for study, and where you can access ecosystems from soaring hardwood forest, to tundra, to coastal estuary.
As one of the most research-intensive departments on campus, you will have abundant opportunity to work one-on-one with professors on cutting edge research projects that are regional, national, and international in scope.
REWARDING CAREERS IN EARTH SCIENCES:
Data show that, since 2009, an incredible 100% of Earth Sciences majors have successfully moved into graduate studies and/or Earth Science-related or teaching careers. The reasons are simple: Canada needs well-prepared thinkers to support its huge resource economy, and to prevent and manage environmental issues.
Earth Sciences at StFX will prepare you for graduate studies as well as a wide range of careers in geology, climatology, oceanography, environmental science, resources exploration and development, government, industry and financial institutions, where geological knowledge is vital for investments and economic planning.
September 2025
Faculty of Science
2329 Notre Dame Avenue, 2nd Floor Nicholson, Rm 220,
ANTIGONISH,
Nova Scotia (NS),
B2G 2W5, Canada
Applicants must have English; pre-calculus math; two of biology, chemistry or physics; and one other university preparatory course in grade 12.
Students with an IELTS score of 6.5 and no band below 6.0 will be deemed to have satisfied the English language requirements for admissions to undergraduate programs. Other acceptable tests include: MELAB (minimum score required is 90), TOEFL iBT (minimum score required is 90 and no lower than 20 in each band), CAEL (minimum score required is 71), CAE (minimum score required is 180 overall and no lower than 170 in each band.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.