A science-first path into environmental work
Environmental science is an engaging and comprehensive field that explores the dynamic relationships between the natural environment and human actions. It includes areas like biology, conservation biology, ecology, geology, chemistry, and social sciences. These disciplines come together to offer insights into how we interact with our planet.
As environmental challenges like climate change, pollution, conservation, and resource management grow more pressing, understanding environmental science becomes increasingly vital. At its core, the field studies the interactions between humans and nature, addressing pressing issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
Science-first approach
Grounded in biology, chemistry, geology, and ecology with significant laboratory and fieldwork throughout.
Data and research
Students learn to gather and analyse biological, chemical, geological, and sociological aspects of environmental conditions.
Hands-on experience
Real-world fieldwork, internships, and laboratory projects are central components of the degree.
What you'll actually study
The degree takes an interdisciplinary approach, equipping students with tools to devise innovative strategies that address the interconnectedness of societal, economic, ecological, and earth systems. Expand each area below.
The skills you graduate with
One of the biggest benefits of this degree is its multidisciplinary nature. By incorporating the study of science with coursework in data analysis, research strategies, and field methods and technologies, graduates can take their careers in many directions.
Lab and field techniques
Hands-on training to gather and analyse data from biological, chemical, geological, and sociological aspects of the environment.
Data analysis
Skills in research and analysis training, using the scientific method, conducting experiments, and collecting data in the field.
Systems thinking
A systems-thinking perspective is essential because the natural environment is comprised of intricate systems that must be understood holistically.
Scientific communication
Communication skills are particularly important in environmental science because of the need to connect with communities and collaborate across all aspects of science.
Critical inquiry
An innate curiosity and growth mindset are central. Students learn to take a critical look at the world and ask why and how about environmental conditions.
Leadership and collaboration
The degree also builds leadership and collaboration skills, giving graduates a broad basis from which to launch careers or apply to graduate school.
Where this degree takes you
Environmental science offers diverse career paths. Whether working on climate change, becoming a research biologist, or working in natural resource management, graduates have the potential to build careers that help keep the planet and communities healthy and well.
The degree provides a strong foundation for graduate school or professional careers across a variety of environmental science fields.
Who tends to thrive here
If you want to make a positive impact on the world and develop sustainable practices, majoring in environmental science could be a very good option. The degree offers a strong foundation for a career as a scientist and also builds leadership and collaboration skills.
Students who find themselves taking a critical look at the world around them, asking why or how about a lot of things, are likely a great fit. That curiosity, combined with an eagerness to learn and a growth mindset, can open a host of professional opportunities in the field.