Environmental Science

Become a change agent.

Environmental science introduces you to Earth’s living and nonliving systems and how humans interact with and affect them. You’ll learn how to invoke behavior change to solve environmental and sustainability problems with an emphasis on the natural sciences. 

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“Environmental science and studies touches on every realm of science and has taught me so much about how everything we do impacts the environment. I love the community we’ve been able to build between students and faculty over the last four years. I also think the major is so important because not only do we deal with pressing issues like climate change, but we also look for solutions in almost everything we do.” 

Emmett N. ’23, Environmental Science and Studies Major

CLASSES YOU MIGHT TAKE

Introduction to Global Environmental Change

In this broad survey of the Earth as a planet, we investigate the processes that control global changes. We also give special attention to present-day issues, such as global climate change, natural hazards, air pollution, resource depletion, human population growth, habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity.

Environmental Policymaking and Policy Analysis

This course will provide you with an introduction to U.S. environmental policymaking and policy analysis. You’ll examine the political and legal framework, become familiar with precedent-setting statutes such as NEPA, RCRA, and the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts, and study models for environmental policy analysis.

Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Geospatial Analysis

This course provides an introduction to the principles and practice of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related tools of Geospatial Analysis. In addition, you’ll get hands-on experience working with GIS software.