Program Details

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as an Environmental Scientist or Specialist, you could perform many jobs, including:

• Determine data collection methods for research projects, investigations, and surveys
• Collect and compile environmental data from samples of air, soil, water, food, and other materials for scientific analysis
• Analyze samples, surveys, and other information to identify and assess threats to the environment
• Develop plans to prevent, control, or fix environmental problems, such as land or water pollution
• Provide information and guidance to government officials, businesses, and the general public on possible environmental hazards and health risks
• Prepare technical reports and presentations that explain their research and findings

Graduates of the Teaching Focus tracks can teach in K-12 schools. The Bureau of Labor Statistics outlines typical tasks of teachers such as:

• Create lesson plans to teach students a subject
• Assess students to evaluate their abilities, strengths, and weaknesses
• Teach lessons they have planned to an entire class or to smaller groups
• Grade students’ assignments and exams
• Communicate with parents or guardians about their child’s progress
• Work with students individually to help them overcome specific learning challenges
• Prepare students for standardized tests required by the state

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in environmental science is designed for students already holding an Associate of Science (A.S.) or Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree from a regionally accredited college or university, to pursue a career as an entry-level scientist, specialized laboratory/field technician, classroom teacher, and/or progress to a graduate or professional degree program (e.g. M., Ph.D., MD, JD, etc.).

The curriculum will provide the students with a foundational understanding of science, critical thinking skills, experiential learning, ethics, and specific technical knowledge and skills required to work in the laboratory or the field. All students, regardless of track, complete classes such as Introduction to Ecology, Biostatistics with Lab, Introduction to Soil Science, and Scientific Communication. The program then splits into four tracks (Biosecurity, Physical Science, Biosecurity with Teaching Focus, and Physical Science with Teaching Focus). These tracks address the major specialties and core competencies within each respective field and provide graduates with a wealth of discipline skills and knowledge that will make them competitive for employment within the environmental and biological science and STEM education workforce.

​Information about careers in environmental science and education can be found in the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Middle School Teachers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/middle-school-teachers.htm

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, High School Teachers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Environmental Scientists and Specialists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm