Earth and Space Science

Science and Society

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Earth and Space Science is a balance of theory, laboratory skills and techniques, planetarium operation training, and research. The degree is designed to provide a foundation in the sciences for those who want to use science at the intersection with other disciplines. A wide background of study prepares students to become professionals who can communicate science, who can understand the interaction between science and society, who can help legislate science-informed policy, and who can speak with wisdom about the interactions between science and faith.

Careers with an Earth and Space Science Major

Science Writer

Journalist

Museum/Planetarium professional

Science Policy Advocate

Astrobiologist

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Lawyer

Mining Engineer

Paleoclimatologist

Paleontolgoist

Parks and Natural Resource Manager

Technology Toolbox

Students who choose Olivet’s Earth and Space Science major will gain an interdisciplinary foundation in the sciences. They will also receive unique training for employment in the planetarium community. Olivet is one of only a handful of Christian universities across the country with a planetarium on campus. Built in 1967 and renovated in 2008, Strickler Planetarium has a projector system that ranks as one of the top in Illinois in digital capabilities. The 50-seat auditorium is regularly used for astronomy classes, sky shows, school programs, and private tours.

Strickler Planetarium

Meet the Faculty

Stephen Case

As Olivet's planetarium director, Dr. Case oversaw the complete refurbishment and update of Strickler Planetarium from a slide-based analogue projection system to a full-dome digital system. Dr. Case brings his cross-disciplinary background to science instruction and planetarium show development. He also teaches astronomy, history of science, and Honors Program courses. His interests include the historical and cultural aspects of the physical sciences, specifically the history of astronomy and changing conceptions regarding the physical nature of the stars. In 2014, he completed a doctorate degree in the history and philosophy of science at the University of Notre Dame. His doctoral dissertation is "Making Stars Physical: John Herschel's Stellar Astronomy, 1816-1871."

Meet the Faculty

Making Stars Physical: The Astronomy of Sir John Herschel

Dr. Stephen Case, a professor in Olivet Nazarene University's Department of Chemistry and Geosciences, releases his first nonfiction book on astronomy and history of science.

Earth and Space Science with a Christian Purpose

The best way to see if Olivet is a good fit for you is to visit the campus. We offer unique, customized visit days every weekday, and special Purple & Gold days, too, where you can get up close at all things ONU.

Schedule a Visit