Climate Science
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 77-79 Credits
Climate scientists work to increase climate literacy through their solid understanding of the fundamental processes of Earth's climate system and the scientific credibility of climate information.
Overview
Grand Valley's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Climate Science prepares students for careers in multiple sectors such as industry, agriculture, insurance, law, finance, education, science, and health. Students will learn to help other professionals communicate about climate change meaningfully and make informed decisions about the magnitude and impacts of expected climate change and its mitigation.
The well-rounded and interdisciplinary curriculum draws from the geosciences, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and statistics. Students explore a wide range of topics that help them understand the complexities of Earth’s systems, including earth system science, geochemistry, oceanography, atmospheric science, and earth history.
GVSU's climate science program is the only one of its kind in Michigan, offering students a unique and immersive educational experience. Whether it’s conducting field studies, working with climate models, or diving into educational research, students get to apply what they learn in real-world settings. Undergraduate students also benefit from one-on-one mentoring in research, curriculum development, and other educational projects. The study of climate change is growing rapidly nationally. There are many avenues of employment for climate scientists in Michigan and across the country.
Program requirement information for this program can be found in the 2025-2026 Under Construction Catalog.
Department of Geology
gvsu.edu/geology
118 Padnos
Hall of Science
(616) 331-3728
Program Contact
Figen A. Mekik
[email protected]
Career Opportunities
Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 49,942.27 | 10% |
| $ 60,906.49 | 25% |
| $ 76,657.20 | 50% |
| $ 96,563.00 | 75% |
| $108,798.69 | 90% |
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Science
- Active Listening
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 49,942.27 | 10% |
| $ 60,906.49 | 25% |
| $ 76,657.20 | 50% |
| $ 96,563.00 | 75% |
| $108,798.69 | 90% |
Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Writing
- Active Listening
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 47,303.74 | 10% |
| $ 59,102.39 | 25% |
| $ 75,133.80 | 50% |
| $100,030.13 | 75% |
| $118,978.44 | 90% |
The Only Program of It's Kind
In Michigan
#1
University in Michigan by Employers
"One of the Top Public Universities in America"
- Niche.com
Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
Grand Valley offers myScholarships
(a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match
with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you
to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
Career Advising
Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.
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