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Environmental Science

BIOLOGY MAJOR


Professionals in the relatively new field of Environmental Science study the ways in which humans interact with and affect the living and non-living components of the Earth. It’s a growing profession with a bright future for those interested in working in everything from sustainability and pollution to conservation and resource management.

As a student in the program, you will take the core biology curriculum along with specialty courses offered in environmental science. Its problem-based exercises are designed for students working collaboratively and thinking critically.

Your knowledge base obtained in the classroom is complemented by the hands-on learning opportunities found in laboratory and field experiences, including an excursion to Costa Rica.

All environmental science majors engage in a semester-long research experience, a rare opportunity on the undergraduate level. This, along with other practical learning experiences, is especially impressive when you apply for graduate and professional school or enter the job market. You will also have opportunities to present your research at scholarly forums and attend scientific meetings, as well as publish in scientific literature.

In addition to the highly qualified biology faculty members, the primary professor in environmental science holds a Ph.D., has published extensively with students and has work experience in the government, private industry and non-profit sectors.

Curriculum

Note: The most up-to-date curriculum is available via the current catalog.

A total of 53 hours with grades of “C-” or better in all courses is required.

Courses other than those offered only as pass/no pass may not be taken on a pass/no pass basis for this major.

Additional Requirements: Proficiency exam during freshman and senior year.

Common Core (Biology)

BI130 First Year Seminar in Biology (1)
BI230 Biological Sciences I (4)
BI231 Biological Sciences II (4)
BI493 Research Experience (4)
CH230 Principles of Chemistry I (4)
CH231 Principles of Chemistry II (4)
MT131 Introduction to Statistics (4)

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Core

ES332 Ecology and Conservation Biology (4)

Electives

Select 8 hours from the following.

BI330 Animal Diversity (4)
BI333 Plant Biology (4)
ES330/330G Topics in Field Biology** (4)
ES350/350G Advanced Topics in Ecology** (4)

Select 16 hours from the following.

BI330 Animal Diversity** (4)
BI333 Plant Biology** (4)
BI336 Evolution (4)
BI338 Vertebrate Anatomy (4)
BI340 Animal Physiology (4)
BI343 Microbiology and Immunology (4)
BI344 Disease Ecology (4)
BI347 Animal Behavior (4)
BI349 Parasitology (4)
BI434 Biochemistry II: Molecular Biology (4)
BI494 Research Practicum (2-4)
ES330/330G Topics in Field Biology** (4)
ES350/350G Advanced Topics in Ecology** (4)

** Repeatable when topics vary; may be taken if not chosen above