Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences offers undergraduate study leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science, focusing on developing strong foundational knowledge and a broad set of field and laboratory skills that allow students to seek employment, or prepare them for continued academic study in the Earth and environmental sciences.

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field, focusing on the study of physical, chemical, and biological processes that underpin both natural ecosystems and human-influenced systems. While their focus is often on the physical and life sciences, environmental scientists must also be mindful of social issues, political context, economic factors, and human well-being in order to understand environmental issues and address environmental problems. The coursework for the Environmental Science degree reflects this broad, systems-level approach, with coursework in science and mathematics, as well as the social sciences. This allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the science and social issues involved in addressing complex environmental problems such as environmental contamination, access to food and safe drinking water, and climate change.

The undergraduate degree program in Environmental Science includes a core of required courses intended to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental principles of biology, chemistry, geology, mathematics, physics, and statistics necessary to understand environmental challenges. In addition, further required courses and electives allow students to apply this fundamental knowledge to broader environmental issues and problems, and to deepen their understanding of natural systems, human systems, and sustainability. The Environmental Science B.S. program serves as preparation for employment in a variety of related fields, both in technical and policy/management roles requiring extensive technical knowledge and background. Due to the breadth of disciplines involved in environmental science, students wishing to do independent work professionally may wish to consider graduate study in a field of specialization, if further training is required for their chosen path.