Concern about our natural resources and the general state of our planet is at an all-time high. The earth is ever changing, but to what extent are we responsible for those changes? And what, if anything, can we do to preserve the well-being of our world for future generations?
With a degree in Environmental Science or Environmental Studies, you will gain a better understanding of the interactions between living things and the physical environment. You will study biochemical cycles and how they affect global change. Ever wonder about the impact of human societies on the earth? We'll show you the links between human choices and environmental effects. In the end, we hope you learn to appreciate the need for environmental ethics and to embrace a philosophy of sustainability relative to natural resources.
Program Features
Related Coursework
The Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs are designed to provide you with a broad knowledge base about the interactions between people and our environment. In your efforts to achieve a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Studies, you will complete coursework with an underlying emphasis in the social sciences. You will take a limited selection of natural science courses, but a broad base of human and natural history courses is required. The Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science is more centered on the natural sciences, and the related coursework reflects that.
Internship Opportunities
There is an integrative philosophy woven throughout the Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs which involves opportunities for internship in related environmental fields. If you are interested in environmental public policy and the decisions critical to the development of local, regional or national strategies that deal with environmental issues and concerns, you can work with a public or private environmental facility off-campus.
Professional/Career Opportunities
The environmental field is by nature very broad and diversified, but the demand for people trained in Environmental Studies and Environmental Science is always strong. Job fields range from soil and water conservation and environmental consulting to waste water management, wildlife ecology and environmental agencies. Positions within these fields include agricultural scientists, conservation scientists, ecologists, environmental attorneys, environmental health and safety inspectors, foresters, hydrologists, regional planners, urban planners and wildlife biologists.
While education is not a guarantee of employment, people with degrees in environmental majors can qualify for jobs in local, state and federal government agencies and departments. Due to increased demands for information, inspection and litigation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is adding about 600 new full-time employees to its roster each year. In addition to the various levels of governmental units, private businesses utilize many people with environmental training as well. Of course, some of these positions require graduate training at the master's level or above, but that academic path begins with a solid undergraduate degree from Maryville University.
Degree Offerings and Requirements
Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
Minor in Environmental Studies
Admission Requirements
If you're interested in joining one of our Environmental programs, you need to meet the general admissions requirements for the University. We recommend that you complete a variety of high school or college prep courses in English, science, math, social studies and foreign language before applying.
