2012-13 Undergraduate Catalog

Environmental scientists work toward defining and solving environmental problems caused by the actions of human beings. Their interdisciplinary training is broad-based and encompasses the natural sciences, mathematics, economics, and the social sciences. Their primary ethical concern is human stewardship of the earth.

Students in the Environmental Studies program are concerned with both the technological problems and social aspects of environmental issues. Working in cooperation with the Center for Environmental, Earth and Space Studies, Economics, and Sociology, they may participate in applied research. Their interdisciplinary course work includes the study of scientific principles used in environmental problem solving, and the study of the impact of economics, politics, and other social systems on environmental policies and practices.

Because of the breadth of study necessary to prepare for upper division Environmental Studies courses, students are urged to declare in the major during their freshman or sophomore year.

At least 50 percent of credits in the major should be at 3000/4000 levels.