The environmental education and outreach major is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field of study - it blends elements of environmental science, education, and communication to create well-rounded graduates who can make a meaningful impact on the world. Students in this major delve into a variety of subjects to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues facing our environment. They also learn effective education and outreach techniques, including public speaking and writing to convey environmental messages and lessons.
Environmental education and outreach majors often engage in hands-on experiences, such as developing lessons, organizing workshops, leading outdoor expeditions, or collaborating with environmental organizations. They develop the ability to tailor their message to various audiences, from school children to policymakers, using creative and engaging approaches.
Environmental education and outreach has applications in non-formal settings within public and private sectors, in both for-profit and non-profit venues, including zoos, businesses, nature centers, environmental/outdoor education facilities, conservation organizations, and a variety of government agencies from local to national levels. This program does not provide a K-12 teaching certificate. If a student is interested in teaching in a formal K-12 setting, they may also participate in The University’s Teaching Pathway Program to work towards obtaining K-12 teaching certification.
This program is specifically designed to provide the background and hands-on experiences needed for graduates entering this growing field. As environmental educators and science communicators, graduates will play a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and public action, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and responsible society.
It is strongly recommended that this major be paired with a media production and communication minor, but this major can also readily be paired with a minor in areas such as biology, chemistry, business administration, or sociology/anthropology.
Environmental Education and Outreach Learning Outcomes
With the completion of this degree program, the following learning outcomes can be expected:
- Environmental Literacy: Students can integrate the biological, chemical, economic, and sociological ties as they pertain to an environmental issue.
- Foundations: Students can examine the goals, theory, practice, and history of the field of environmental education and outreach.
- Professional Responsibility: Students can demonstrate professional responsibility in the field of environmental education and outreach including ethical behavior.
- Planning and Implementing: Students can develop and implement a lesson plan for a specific audience, through the appropriate use of primary literature and the application of the foundations and methods of environmental education.
- Fostering Learning and Promoting Inclusivity: Students can explain why inclusivity is important in learning and collaborating on environmental issues by reflecting on their own and others’ perspectives and experiences.
- Assessment and Evaluation: Students can plan and implement assessment processes in their instruction or outreach and evaluate their lessons or communication.
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