Establishing a Geo-Space Science Area of Concentration

Morgan State University, Baltimore MD

Investigators

Abstract

Morgan State University, an HBCU, will establish within the Physics Department an undergraduate concentration area that focuses on geo-space science as a career option. The project seeks to attract potential recruits to the physics major while offering the geoscience community unconventional graduates with quantitative training. The project has two thrusts: 1) scholarship support for undergraduates doing geophysical research and 2) catalytic support to help establish two new courses - Physical Geology and Planetary Science - which will form the core of a set of pertinent electives. The course material will be presented with strongly quantitative approaches to help train a diverse group of scientists well prepared for wide ranging career options in geoscience fields. The project is expected to establish a model for physical science and engineering departments interested in attracting new students to the geosciences at campuses that do not have the resources to establish a separate geoscience department and degree program.