The Geo/Physical Sciences Department encompasses the disciplines of Geography, Earth Science and Physics. The mission of the department is defined by its dedicated concern for the preparation of students who are knowledgeable in their chosen academic concentration and who are confident in their abilities to succeed in whatever career-related objectives they may choose to pursue.
Four-Year Undergraduate Program
In choosing a major field of study, students may select from among six degree options, namely, the bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree in Geography, Earth Science, or in the teaching of Earth Science (Earth Science, Provisional Certificate).
The Geo/Physical Sciences Department pays close attention to creating an atmosphere of caring and guidance, in which students are encouraged to develop a sense of identity and self-reliance as part of a larger community. This family-like environment is experienced in the many opportunities which students have to interact with their peers and the faculty: while fulfilling internships, during academic advising periods, in class presentations of research results, through the activities of the GeoClub, at departmental social events and awards presentations, or on field trips as nearby as Acadia National Park or as far as the Grand Canyon.
Faculty
There are six full-time faculty members, each of whom possesses a doctoral degree. The foremost objective for each faculty member in Geo/Physical Science is to provide students with the highest levels of academic and professional training in their chosen fields of specialization. This goal is accomplished primarily through rigorous and carefully structured courses in which established methods and bodies of knowledge are skillfully related to current trends and developments in the geosciences. They all contribute to their field through publications, conferences, professional organizations; and work with schools and community. They serve in leadership roles in regional professional organizations; provide institutes, seminars and workshops to teachers across the state; and participate in community councils. They also present papers at professional gatherings, often bringing their students with them.
Facilities
Dedicated physics and physical science laboratories are located within the Condike Science Building. Geography, geology and earth sciences have classrooms and laboratories at the McKay Campus School.
Fitchburg State College’s Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library is a comprehensive information center dedicated to the educational development of all students. The library boasts 200,000 volumes, all accessible to students. In addition, Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library offers connections to other libraries in the Northeast. A knowledgeable and professional staff, along with an easily accessible print and electronic collection, facilitate interaction between students and library resources. Services are provided by the staff through the library web page and in person. All students, and faculty members, regardless of location, have access to databases, reference librarians, document delivery, library instruction, reference services and library materials. The library is open seven days a week and provides study tables, carrels and seating on all four levels.
The college also has a state-of-the-art fiber optic system that provides each classroom, lab and residence hall with access to the Internet, advanced phone service and cable television. Media classrooms located around the campus allow faculty to present materials using state-of-the-art technology. In addition to the computer labs available on campus, a bank of computers in the Commuter Cafe gives us our own campus cyber cafe.
These facilities, coupled with the dynamic and energetic teaching available from the faculty, provide the necessary resources for an exceptional education.
Results
Our majors have been highly successful in finding employment in Geo/Physical Science-related fields. A sample of occupational titles currently held by our graduates includes:
Environmental analyst
Forestry technician
Senior environmental engineer
Hydrogeologist
Earth science teacher
Geographic information operations manager
Environmental health and safety coordinator
Hazardous materials lab technician
Map librarian
Senior software analyst
Land surveyor
Urban planner
Seismologist
In addition, many of our graduates have been accepted to programs of advanced studies in graduate departments at colleges and universities throughout the country.
Contact
For more information about the Geo/Physical Sciences Department at Fitchburg State College, please contact the Admissions Office for open house and visit options.
Geo/Physical Science Department: 978-665-3378 or 978-665-3246
