Earth Systems Science & Policy B.S. ~ Typical Course Pathways
We have developed sample pathways (i.e. semester-by-semester course plans) to help you navigate a timely route to graduation. For ESSP majors, this involves taking courses that count for two University Learning Requirements (ULRs) or for both a ULR and an ESSP Major Learning Outcome (MLO). Each of the following course pathways provides just one example of a course sequence you might follow to satisfy your ULRs, Graduation Learning Outcomes, and MLOs as an ESSP major, and assumes that you have already completed the coursework identified on the Preparation page.
These pathways are only examples. Other pathways will also work. However, most science courses have prerequisites that must be completed before you can enroll, so you'll need to consult either the course descriptions or an ESSP advisor to make sure that you will be fulfilling all the prerequisites if you plan an alternate pathway. The best way to design a pathway that works for you is to meet with an ESSP advisor to discuss your goals and any scheduling constraints you may have due to employment, family care obligations, or other issues. When you meet with your ESSP advisor you will develop an Individual Learning Plan and a pathway that satisfies university and major requirements, while meeting your academic goals.
These pathways are suggestions only, not prescribed programs of study. Before enrolling, you can use them (along with the requirements for specific ESSP concentrations) to get a feel for what you can do in this program, After enrolling, you and your advisors can use them as a starting point for building your Individual Learning Plan.
If you work or participate extensively in extracurricular activities, we advise that you adjust your schedule to include winter term, summer term, or additional semesters so that you do not take more than 14-16 units in any one semester. Please consult an ESSP advisor or the web schedule for course scheduling details.