Preserving tradition and looking toward the future

KU College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Announces Planned Department of Earth, Energy & Environment 

LAWRENCE —The University of Kansas College of Liberal Arts & Sciences today announced plans to combine the Departments of Geology, Geography & Atmospheric Science, and Environmental Studies into a single new academic unit: the Department of Earth, Energy & Environment. The change is pending approval by the president of the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR). 

The new department would take effect immediately and would bring together the rich histories, traditions, and academic strengths of its four founding programs. While the formal boundaries that have separated these units would be removed, the disciplinary rigor, academic excellence, and distinct identities that have defined each program for generations will continue to shape the department's future. 

By bringing these disciplines together, KU is creating a more collaborative approach to addressing critical challenges such as energy resource development, water and resource management, and climate resilience. 

"This new department reflects years of collaboration and shared vision among our faculty across Geology, Geography & Atmospheric Science, and Environmental Studies,” said Jennifer A. Roberts, David B. Pittaway Executive Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. “By bringing these disciplines together, we're creating a program that's stronger together, one that honors what each has built while preparing students for the interconnected challenges ahead." 

The new department would also strengthen research and engagement opportunities by building on longstanding partnerships, including with the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS), the Biodiversity Institute, and the Kansas Biological Survey (KBS), along with other university and community partners. By aligning expertise across related fields, KU would be well positioned to expand its impact in research, innovation, and service across Kansas and beyond. 

"This merger reinforces our commitment to our students’ success. They'll graduate with a broader set of skills and a wider network of faculty, research opportunities, and field experiences than any one of our programs could offer on its own,” said Nate Brunsell, chair and professor of earth, energy, & environment. “We're committed to making sure every student, no matter which discipline brought them here, leaves with the training and confidence to go do meaningful work in the world." 

Students currently enrolled in Geology, Geography & Atmospheric Science, or Environmental Studies degree programs will continue to complete their coursework and earn their degrees within their respective programs with no changes to degree requirements. Students will also continue to have access to discipline-specific student organizations and academic communities, alongside new opportunities to connect across areas of study. 

The Department of Earth, Energy & Environment will move forward by honoring the legacies that made these programs successful while expanding opportunities for future generations of students, scholars, and partners. 

The College is the heart of KU, educating the most students, producing the most research and collaborating with nearly every entity at KU. The College is home to more than 50 departments, programs and centers, as well as the School of the Arts and School of Public Affairs & Administration.