The Department of Earth and Environmental Systems provides students with the opportunity to explore a wide range of environmental, earth, and human systems. Anthropologists, geographers, and geologists, investigate fundamental questions that relate directly to the mechanics of the Earth’s physical processes, the spatial organization of societies, the study of human diversity, and the interaction between people and their environment. The department offers environmentally focused interdisciplinary degrees as well as traditional training in anthropology, geography, and geology. The department emphasizes experiential learning and facilitates student engagement in research. Stay up to date with our newsletter!
Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Earth and Environmental Systems at Indiana State University is to provide undergraduate and graduate education grounded in geosciences, geography, and anthropology to prepare students for environmentally oriented careers and graduate studies. The department is committed to interdisciplinary studies of the environment, the earth, and human adaptation and interaction with the environment, with an emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement.
The clubs from the Department of Earth and Environmental Systems at Indiana State University foster a vibrant community for students passionate about environmental science, geology, and sustainability. Through hands-on activities, outreach initiatives, and collaborative projects, members engage with real-world challenges while building skills and connections in their fields.
Jessica Murphy
Major and Degree(s):
- B.S. Geology 2006
- M.S. Geology 2010
- Ph.D. (ABD) Applied Earth Sciences, IUPUI (2016)
Your favorite memory at ISU:
I have so many! Top 3 would be going on a research cruise on the Bering Sea (Aleutian Islands, Alaska), waking up to frozen tent zippers while camping in Colorado on a spring break trip for Sed/Strat and the many times I presented research at regional and national conferences.
Favorite thing you are doing now:
Serving. Serving my community, serving my neighbors, serving those who feel they have no voice. It is an amazing feeling to know that you are providing someone with the tools they need to become stable and successful.
Accomplishments you have achieved:
2023 Terre Haute 12 Under 40; The 12 Under 40 Award was created through a partnership between the Tribune-Star and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce and aims to reward young professionals working in the community with recognition for their service. The idea behind the program is to recognize those making a difference in the community and maybe get others involved as a result. The 12 Under 40 seeks people who “go above and beyond their call to duty.”
How did ISU help with your success:
My time at ISU was filled with hands-on, experiential learning – this educational approach was a critical part in preparing me for my professional career.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to current students:
After coming to Terre Haute in 2002 to attend ISU, I stayed for my Master’s – briefly moved to New Orleans to start a doctoral program at Tulane University and came back to begin a Doctoral Program at IUPUI. It was here, while studying urban lead in underserved communities, that I began my work with community outreach and education. I almost immediately felt pulled into the non-profit world - a scary move, but one I am proud to have made.
