Study Environmental Science to make a difference in the health of the planet
Majors & Degrees
The Environmental Science major equips you with the skills to tackle environmental and human health challenges during a time of rapid ecological change. You have the option to specialize in any of the following four areas: the biosphere; leadership, sustainability and communication; soil, air, and water; or physical and chemical dynamics.
Leadership, Sustainability and Communication Emphasis
This exciting track in our Environmental Science major immerses you in the world of environmental laws, science communication, and environmental justice. Throughout your studies, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to actively address pollution, waste management, biodiversity, natural resource management, and climate change.
By enrolling in courses such as Ecosystem Health and Justice (ENVS 310), you will not only explore the complex environmental challenges of today but also develop a deep appreciation for the intricate connections between natural sciences, health, and justice.
Soil, Air and Water Emphasis
Delve into the heart of environmental problem-solving with this dynamic track in our environmental science major. Here, our focus rests on equipping you with invaluable strategies to tackle the pressing issues that we face as stewards of Earth's resources.
Through a multidisciplinary approach, you will explore environmental chemistry, environmental physics, environmental microbiology, biostatistics, geographic information sciences, and the professional development of environmental careers.
Dive into courses like Soil Ecology (ENVS 300) where you'll learn about soil food webs, microhabitats, ecosystem services, and their intrinsic vulnerabilities to the impacts of climate change.
Physical and Chemical Dynamics Emphasis
Explore the intricate dance of the chemical, physical, and hydrogeological processes that shape our environment. This path offers an in-depth exploration of these fundamental principles. You will develop the skills needed to confront ecological challenges head-on and graduate prepared to contribute to the conservation of our precious environment.
Enrich your knowledge through courses like Environmental Soil and Water Chemistry (ENVS 462), where you will gain insight into the chemical dynamics of soils and sediments, empowering you to skillfully evaluate and tackle environmental issues.
The Biosphere Emphasis
Discover the powerful role that biological principles play in addressing issues such as biodiversity loss, adaptation to global change, habitat conservation, restoration, and rehabilitation. In this path you will learn about the intricate web of interactions between microbes, plants, animals, and humans, and their physical and chemical environment.
You will learn about applied biological principles and graduate with a deep understanding of biodiversity, adaptation to global change, habitat conservation, restoration, and rehabilitation.
Through courses like Environmental Microbiology (ENVS 425), you will uncover the wonders of microbial environments and learn about cutting-edge techniques to detect and understand the activities of microorganisms in their dynamic environmental contexts.