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Updated 2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog | 20255

PDF of Environmental Studies

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.

Career Directions

Chemist
Ecologist
Engineering Technician
Environmental Chemist
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Economist
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineering Scientist
Environmental Manager
Environmental Outdoor Educator
Environmental Policy Maker and Planner
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Sociologist
Environmental Specialist
Environmental Technologist
Environmental Toxicologist
Geohydrologist
Hydrogeologist
Natural Resources Specialist
Pollution Control Specialist
Research Lab Technician
Researcher
Teacher
Wastewater Monitor
Wastewater Treatment Operator
Water Quality Specialist
Water Treatment Operator
Also: Graduate Study

Preparation

Recommended High School Courses
Biology
Chemistry
Government
Math
Physics
Political Science
Social Science