Beyond Earth System Science

Initial Publication Date: April 13, 2015

An Approach for the 21st Century

Go back to the beginning of this presentation by Kip Hodges from Arizona State University.

The School of Earth & Space Exploration program at Arizona State University


What kind of program teaches the principles of sustainability and stewardship? Consider the SESE program at Arizona State, developed to address these points. Key elements of the program:
  • quantitative skills
  • co-evolution of human society and the environment
  • problem-solving skills
  • integration of science and engineering
  • communication of science to the public


Traditional science education has been discipline-based.

Imagine, instead, a curriculum built around understanding and solving the grand challenges facing our society.

There are several different undergraduate and graduate level degree tracks within the SESE program.

At the undergraduate level, every program requires a core knowledge of foundational subjects (biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, complex systems, engineering, Earth and space science, exploration, social science/humanities, policy and outcomes, and communicating science). Each degree then requires further study in the area of concentration, followed by a senior project in that area.