Geoscience Enrollments Jump Sharply in 2008-2009

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Date updated: 2009-06-22
Data Brief 2009-006
Written by Christopher Keane for AGI, June 2009

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The 2008-2009 academic year saw a sharp 8% increase in the number of geosciences undergraduates enrolled in U.S. institutions, to a total population of 22,191. This trend was not evident in graduate enrollments, which remained basically flat at 7,846 students. These trends reflect statements from departments about sudden increases in undergraduates because of the increased interest in energy and environmental issues. As constrained budgets have limited the number of funded graduate positions, enrollment remains steady but admission has become more competitive.

U.S. Geoscience Enrollments, 1955-2009. Source: AGI Geoscience Workforce Program, data derived from AGI's Directory of Geoscience Departments.

Degrees granted in the geosciences have remained steady, reflecting the enrollment numbers of the past several years. The recent influx of students will not likely be seen in degree production until the 2010-2011 academic year.

U.S. Geoscience Degrees Granted, 1973-2009. Source: AGI Geoscience Workforce Program, data derived from AGI's Directory of Geoscience Departments.

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