What if I want to study Environmental Science?

The Environmental Studies program is interdisciplinary, and the strength of the program is that students are able to explore the many contributing factors and perspectives necessary to understand complex environmental topics. Because of this emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach, Guilford does not offer a stand-alone Environmental Science degree under the ENVS program. Instead, we collaborate closely with programs in the natural sciences (Biology, Geology, Chemistry) to offer an extremely comprehensive and thorough degree program that is superior to many typical Environmental Science programs.

For students interested in pursuing graduate work or professional employment in Environmental Science, a primary major in one of the natural sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Geology) in combination with the Environmental Studies degree will thoroughly prepare you for further work in the environmental field. This approach is highly rigorous and will provide students with an excellent depth of knowledge in their primary scientific field; this scientific focus is further enhanced by the interdisciplinary aspects of the Environmental Studies degree, giving students insights into the many complex factors required to approach environmental problem solving.

Students primarily interested in wildlife and ecology would be encouraged to couple a Biology degree with Environmental studies. Potential career opportunities would include wildlife biology, ecology, working for the EPA or the National Park Service, or pursuing research in related fields. For more information on the courses, please check out the Biology program which offers both B.A. and B.S. degrees.

The Geology program offers both B.S. and B.A. degree options, and has a specific Environmental Geology track that is designed for students that want to focus on learning skills that will help them in the assessment and solution of environmental issues. Coursework includes Hydrology (the study of water) and learning about Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a powerful spatial analysis tool that is used in many environmental applications. Students dual majoring in Geology and Environmental Studies would be well prepared to pursue a graduate degree in environmental science, and would also be excellent candidates for entry level jobs in the environmental consulting field or with governmental agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey or the EPA.

A degree in Chemistry would also be an excellent choice for students interested in research and development on energy technologies, pollutant remediation, and green chemistry strategies.   The Chemistry Department offers many research opportunities as well

 

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