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Environmental Science

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Overview

All over the world, societies have become increasingly concerned about the safety of air, food and water. Recent weather‐related events have sparked an interest in understanding the earth's climate and the human factors that play a role in global climate change. This heightened public awareness of the perils facing our natural resources has increased the demand for environmental scientists and specialists.

What is an Environmental Science Degree?

Saint Joseph’s University’s environmental science major offers a strong foundation in the natural sciences. You will develop skills in experimental design, surveying scientific literature, data collection, data reduction and the presentation of scientific conclusions to a range of audiences. Your teachers are noted experts and researchers in the field of environmental science. 

Coursework begins with the basic principles of biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, and then moves on to a series of upper-level courses in three broad areas: environmental policy, biological sciences or physical sciences. This allows you to design your own unique course of study. Additionally, you complete a semester-long experiential learning project that gives you a look at career paths in environmental science. 

Ways to Study Environmental Science at Saint Joseph's University

Environmental science is offered as a major and minor. Students interested in sustainability can add an Environmental and Sustainability Studies minor that focuses on understanding environmental and sustainability issues. 

What Can You Do With an Environmental Science Degree?

Students graduating with an environmental science degree typically go on to pursue careers that focus on preventing environmental pollution and preserving natural resources. Environmental science graduates are needed in a broad range of industries including environmental policy, healthcare, manufacturing, law, government, consulting, park services and lab work. Career paths for environmental science majors include:

  • Environmental consultant
  • Meteorologist
  • Environmental engineer
  • Conservation scientist
  • Zoologist 
  • Environmental lawyer
  • Anthropologist
  • Marine or Wildlife biologist

How will Saint Joseph's University Prepare You for a Career in Environmental Science?

Saint Joseph's University offers the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations that will enrich your academic experience and provide strong preparation for a career in environmental science. 

Saint Joseph's University's Green Fund brings together faculty and students in creating new sustainability changes on campus. The Green Fund manages the university-wide recycling program, energy conservation program and water conservation program to encourage social responsibility.

Saint Joseph's University is also proud to host a chapter of Net Impact, a program dedicated to helping leaders build a more just and sustainable world. Through the program, students are encouraged to attend events, participate in fellowships, strengthen their leadership skills and apply for career opportunities.

Continue Your Education in Environmental Science

Saint Joseph's University offers a variety of graduate options to help undergraduates further develop their skills and advance their careers after graduation. Environmental science majors often go on to obtain a Biology M.S. or M.A. The M.A. program accommodates both full- and part-time students. Undergraduate students enrolled at Saint Joseph’s University with majors in biology or environmental science may be able to complete a combined 5-year B.S./M.A. or B.S./M.S. degree.

Course Catalog Information

Related Programs

Biology

A biology degree from Saint Joseph’s University exposes you to all levels of biological organization, from the sub-cellular to the broad ecosystem. Our program is built with core courses covering the fundamentals of biology, a distribution of upper-level course across the major areas of biology and free electives.

Health Studies

If you know that you’re interested in the medical field and are looking for your niche — be it nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy or health administration — the health studies program at Saint Joseph’s University is perfect for you. The curriculum will prepare you for a wide range of health care positions in hospitals, health departments, health agencies, research facilities, schools and various other areas in the healthcare industry.