Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Earth and Environmental Sciences, BSc
Location
Khorog campus, Tajikistan
Duration
5 years (1 year preparatory programme + 4 years bachelor's degree)
Partner Institution
Curriculum developed in partnership with the University of British Columbia
The Earth and Environmental Sciences major at the University of Central Asia offers a comprehensive and scientifically rigorous curriculum that integrates natural sciences with social and cultural perspectives, particularly those relevant to mountain regions in Central Asia and beyond. This programme is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in Earth and Environmental Sciences while allowing flexibility to pursue specialized interests through elective courses and research opportunities.
At the heart of the EES curriculum is a transdisciplinary approach that bridges geosciences, environmental sciences, and the social sciences. Core courses in natural sciences, such as geology, biology, chemistry, and physics, are complemented by essential studies in the humanities and social sciences, fostering a holistic understanding of environmental challenges and solutions.
One of the programme’s key strengths lies in its breadth and cross-disciplinary nature. Students explore diverse areas including hydrology, geodynamics, ecology, and environmental policy. The curriculum is enriched by frequent field trips to the surrounding mountainous regions, offering hands-on experience and direct engagement with the natural environment.
Graduates of the EES major emerge with a deep understanding of the complex interplay between natural systems and human societies, particularly in fragile mountain environments, and are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development efforts in Central Asia and globally.
Meet Earth & Environmental Sciences
Faculty
Graduate Attributes
Understanding Earth-Shaping Processes
Explain the physical and chemical processes, such as plate tectonics, erosion, sedimentation, volcanism, and mineral formation, that have shaped the Earth over geological time, with a particular focus on the formation and evolution of mountainous regions.
Data Interpretation and Research Design
Interpret environmental and geological data — including remote sensing, GIS datasets, field observations, and lab results — to design applied research projects and propose evidence-based solutions to environmental challenges.
Integrating Scientific and Indigenous Knowledge
Analyze geological and environmental data alongside local and indigenous knowledge systems to assess environmental trends, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives in understanding complex phenomena.
Application of Environmental Technologies
Apply environmental technologies for sustainable use of Earth resources, evaluating systems for water quality, air pollution control, and renewable energy through social, economic, and ecological lenses.
Environmental Governance and Policy Analysis
Critically analyze environmental management challenges and assess governance models and policy frameworks at local, national, and global levels with attention to equity and sustainability.
Exploring Diverse Knowledge Systems
Investigate how indigenous and Western scientific knowledge systems contribute to understanding and managing human–environment relationships in mountain regions.
Science Communication and Community Engagement
Communicate scientific concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, fostering environmental awareness and empowering communities through culturally sensitive outreach.
Why choose this degree?
The programme offers a unique selection of courses in Earth and Environmental Sciences and GIS/Remote Sensing, specifically designed for the Central Asian context and distinct from those offered by other universities in the region.
Students are taught by international faculty with extensive experience in Earth and environmental sciences, ensuring exposure to global expertise and best practices. They benefit from direct access to field sites across the region, where they can observe geological formations and environmental features first-hand, as well as from well-equipped laboratories for geology and environmental studies.
From the very first semester, the learning process is hands-on, supported by access to advanced scientific resources, specialised software, and computer facilities. The programme also provides opportunities for internships and international exchange, allowing students to gain valuable practical experience and broaden their professional networks.
Graduate Studies and Careers
Students completing a UCA undergraduate degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences should be competitive for entry into international graduate studies programmes in the areas of Earth and Environmental Sciences. They should be able to teach in local schools, find jobs in NGOs and government agencies, or work in the private sector in areas including water technologies, renewable energy, mining, industrial pollution, and climate change impacts.
Career Pathways
- Geographic Information System
- Mineral Exploration and Extraction
- Renewable Energy
- IT Analysis and Application
- Natural Resources Specialist
- Energy Resources Specialist
- Researcher
- Environmental Monitoring, Restoration, Policy Analysis, and Impact Assessment
- Disaster Risk Management and Conservation
- Sustainable Management of Natural Resources
- Mountain Tourism
- Consultant: Natural Hazards, Energy, Environment
Earth & Environmental Sciences Courses
Partner University in developing the curriculum: University of British Columbia, Canada
A central theme of the EES programme is the study of environmental and earth science processes that shape mountain ecosystems, and the dynamic interactions between these processes and the communities that inhabit them.
Students delve into practical and pressing topics such as:
- -Sustainable management of natural resources,
- -Mitigation of natural hazards,
- -Environmentally responsible mining practices,
- -Food security and agricultural resilience,
- -Climate change adaptation strategies,
- -Water resource management,
- -Renewable and sustainable energy solutions,
- -Conservation of agrobiodiversity.
The programme emphasises the development of analytical and problem-solving skills, encouraging students to address real-world challenges through evidence-based scientific inquiry rather than anecdotal or popular beliefs. Learning extends beyond the classroom through laboratory work, summer internships, and a capstone project, all of which prepare students for careers in environmental science, geoscience, policy-making, or further academic study.
Core Curriculum
- Foundations in Chemistry, Physics and Biology
- The Concept of Modern Natural Science
- Economic Geography and Demographics of Tajikistan
- Introduction to GIS and Remote Sensing
- Mixed Research Methods
- Ways of Knowing: Mountain Environments in Thought and Practice
- Environmental Governance: Water, Air, Land and Biosphere
- Environment and Development in Mountain Regions
- Science, Impact, and Complexity of Climate Change
- Natural Hazards and Risk Management in Mountain Regions
- Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Introduction to Geological Materials and Resources
- Surface Processes in Mountain Environments
- Hydrology and Hydrogeology
- Geomorphology
- Introduction to Water Resources
Specialised Courses
Environmental Science Courses
- Conservation Science
- Ecology
- Environmental Impact and Risk Assessment
- Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing
- Water Resources and Climate Change
- Environmental Chemistry
- Habitation and Environment in Central Asia
- Basics of Meteorology
- Environmental Communications
- Introduction to Soil Sciences
- Introduction to Atmospheric and Climate Science
Geologic Science Courses
- Geochemistry
- Structural Geology
- Sedimentary Geology and Stratigraphy
- Minerals, Petrology and Mined Resources
Course Catalogues
Admission Applications Now Open!
UCA's School of Arts and Sciences is pleased to announce that applications are open for the undergraduate programmes:
Undergraduate programmes:
- BSc in Computer Science (offered in Naryn, Kyrgyzstan)
- BA in Communications and Media (offered in Naryn, Kyrgyzstan)
- BSc in Earth and Environmental Sciences (offered in Khorog, Tajikistan)
- BA in Global Economics (offered in Khorog, Tajikistan)
All programmes are taught in English and follow an international curriculum emphasizing analytical thinking, research, and community engagement. UCA students benefit from small class sizes, personalized academic support, and extensive internship and career development opportunities.
Application deadline: 14 February 2026