Environmental Science Major

Environmental Science

Department of Biology & Geology
(440) 826-2262

OVERVIEW

Climate change. Population growth. Resource extraction. Fair trade practices. How do we as a global society address key issues affecting our environment and well-being?

Environmental science is a rewarding career field that integrates scientific knowledge and discovery with the complex interaction between humans and nature.

COMPREHENSIVE, INTEGRATED STUDIES

Baldwin Wallace's environmental science major is an interdisciplinary study of biology, chemistry and geology. It combines rigorous coursework with extensive research and field experiences.

You'll be challenged to explore, analyze and hypothesize solutions for the ever-changing environmental issues facing our world and humankind. You'll learn to think critically, communicate effectively and problem-solve efficiently.

EXCELLENT RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

Ten specialty labs offer outstanding collaborative opportunities for faculty-student research. Convenient access to bench space and equipment provide you with impressive research experience at the undergraduate level.

Exceptional research opportunities make BW a standout among students interested in environmental science.
Tylor Mahany '19 collects water quality samples from the east branch of the Rocky River. Tylor's data will assist the Richfield Heritage Preserve with monitoring water quality.
BW's modern biology laboratories include an outdoor native plant and rain garden, greenhouse, plant growth chambers, insect room and zebrafish aquaria.
Field studies are popular and integrate textbook learning with real-world investigation. BW's proximity to the Cleveland Metroparks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Richfield Heritage Preserve offers outstanding access to diverse learning opportunities.
BW's technologically advanced labs, such as the chemistry lab pictured here, offer impressive research experience at the undergraduate level.

GROWING CAREER FIELD

Heightened public, government and business interests in environmental hazards and sustainability have led to a promising job outlook. Demand for environmental scientists and related professions are projected to increase by 11 percent from 2016-26, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Ohio is one of the nation's top 10 states for environmental science jobs.

COMPARING ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE, SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability focuses on reducing negative human impact on the environment. Environmental science is dedicated to the scientific study of the environment that includes examining the relationship between humans and the environment, and finding effective ways to address challenges both now and in the future.

Career Opportunities

Environmental science can be a stepping-stone to post-graduate education. It also can prepare you for a career with government agencies as well as in private industry. Career fields include:

Environmental consulting and impact analysis
Green business
Public interest lobbying
Water conservation
Environmental education
Recycling
Hazardous waste management
Park naturalist

CURRICULUM

A comprehensive program, environmental science is offered as a major.

The curriculum includes a strong foundation in biology, chemistry and geology leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. It is rich in theoretical and empirical studies. You'll learn investigative methods of gathering important scientific data that can be analyzed, synthesized and applied to real-world situations.

You'll learn by doing. A capstone course integrates your studies and provides a collaborative opportunity for you to address and help solve a real-world environmental issue. A required internship builds valuable skills and networking contacts.

Course Descriptions

Course descriptions, requirements for the major and additional information can be found in the University Catalog.

STUDENT EXPERIENCES

Our world-class faculty will help you make your educational experience everything you want it to be. Small class sizes and an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio mean professors get to know you and your interests.

Experiential learning bridges classroom study with real-world opportunities. BW campus resources and the nearby Cleveland Metroparks and Richfield Joint Recreation District offer outstanding research and field experiences.

CO-CURRICULAR STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Bridging classroom study with co-curricular involvement is ideal for professional networking, peer interaction and gaining valuable leadership experience. Co-curricular opportunities include:

Students for Environmental Awareness

Educating the BW and surrounding community about environmental matters is the mission of this group. It provides students with information on recycling, works with other environmental organizations, cares for the native Ohio plant garden, volunteers at EarthFest, and sponsors various events.

Farmer Jackets

This organization educates the BW and surrounding community on the importance of composting, sustainable initiatives and local food through upholding a healthy community garden.

Fauna

This student group provides knowledge, experience and networking opportunities to students interested in zoology-related fields. It also informs and advises them on graduate and veterinary school options.

Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program

The BW Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program is open to Ohio residents who are entering Baldwin Wallace in the fall as a first-year student or transfer student and are interested in environmental science. Students are eligible to apply to the program which also offers the Choose Ohio First scholarship, awarding substantial annual, renewable scholarships.