Environmental Science Major

The environmental science major and minor are interdisciplinary programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to analyze, address, and communicate solutions to today’s environmental challenges. They provide a broad-based educational background that is useful for anyone entering the environmental field, including the areas of conservation, research, consulting, government, non-profit organizations, industry, and environmental health. This major and minor aligns with The University’s commitment to being responsible for the quality of the natural environment and enables graduates to make meaningful contributions to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The programs can readily be paired with a second major or a minor in areas such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, business, or sociology/anthropology. It is strongly recommended that students participate in an internship or volunteer work in a related area. If interested in environmental education and outreach, please see the environmental education and outreach major.

Environmental Science Learning Outcomes

With the completion of this degree program, the following learning outcomes can be expected:

• Students can integrate the biological, chemical, economic, and sociological ties as they pertain to an environmental issue.
• Students can apply concepts of sustainability to existing physical or social constructs.
• Students can examine the interrelationships and importance of biodiversity.
• Students can communicate topics in science in oral or written form, following a discipline-specific format.
• Students apply the scientific method, including use of scientific literature, implementation of a data collection tool, and the organization and analysis of said data.
• Students can articulate ethical considerations pertaining to an environmental issue.