Environmental Science

The Environmental Science major is an interdisciplinary program that encourages students to investigate local and global environmental and sustainability issues and solutions using core courses in science, and integrative concentration courses in physical, natural and social sciences. The program emphasizes experiential learning via immersive activities such as internships, field studies, research with faculty, and community engagement. Environmental Science majors may pursue either a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Ecosystem Sciences, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, or a B.S. in Geosciences. 

Ecosystem Sciences Concentration

The Environmental Science Major with a concentration in Ecosystem Sciences emphasizes understanding interactions between biological, physical and chemical processes of the world’s ecosystems and exploring ways to manage them sustainably for future generations. Students will have opportunities for hands-on experiences working with local, regional and global systems. Students in this concentration will earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree.

Environmental and Sustainability Studies Concentration

Environmental and Sustainability Studies is an interdisciplinary program that integrates an understanding of the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities in exploring impacts of human-environment interactions and socio-ecological challenges. The program’s science-based perspective aims to find sustainable solutions through systemic analysis, integrated problem solving, and civic responsibility. Students in this concentration will earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree.

Geosciences Concentration

The Environmental Science Major with a concentration in Geosciences emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to restoring natural systems and solving geologic and environmental problems. The curriculum focuses on natural hazards, natural resources, and environmental change, among other pressing issues. Students will develop field-based, computational, and quantitative problem-solving skills that make them highly competitive for careers or postgraduate studies. Students in this concentration will earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree.

Earth & Environmental Sciences Discipline Chair: Dr. Ulrich Kamp

The environmental science concentration provides students with a strong background in areas of science related to environmental concerns and with an opportunity to study environmental problems from a scientific point of view that integrates biology, chemistry, earth science and physics.

This concentration leads to a Bachelor of Science degree in the College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters and prepares students for careers in waste management, environmental consultation, teaching, environmental health and resource management.

Visit the University Catalog to learn about degree requirements and coursework for the Environmental Science major.

Learn more about CASL Degree Requirements.

Environmental Science students may be interested in other clubs and organizations in Natural Sciences, throughout CASL, and across campus. In particular, they may be interested in the Student Environmental Association (SEA).