Environmental Science
Blend science and sustainability.
Environmental science focuses on the ways humans interact with their environment, and how that interaction affects the world around us. The role of the environmental scientist is to use scientific knowledge to address issues in agriculture, forestry, environmental policy, sustainability, and public health initiatives — just to name a few.
As you earn your degree in Environmental Science from York College, you’ll develop a fundamental understanding of all the basic sciences: biology, ecology, chemistry, and physics. With a stream running through campus; local access to lakes, wetlands, fields, and forests; and state-of-the-art equipment in the Naylor Ecological Sciences Center, you’ll get hands-on experience with projects in both the lab and the real world.
Careers in environmental science are growing at a rapid rate — with 7,100 new jobs expected between 2019 and 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). York College’s Environmental Science program provides students with the knowledge and the practical expertise you’ll require to successfully enter a career in this quickly expanding field.
Majoring in Environmental Science
Key Courses
The Environmental Science major offers a wide variety of required classes, electives, and real-world learning opportunities. These include:
- BIO 152: Evolution, Ecology, and Diversity
- BIO 212: Environmental Biology
- PSY 215: Sustainability and Psychology
- SOC 301: Environmental Sociology
- BIO 404: Ecological Action
Career Opportunities
No matter your interests, York College’s experienced faculty will guide you toward real-world opportunities that allow you to build a strong professional network in your preferred subject area.
These are just a few of the many career opportunities available to graduates of the Environmental Science program:
- Ecologist
- Naturalist Educator
- Wildlife Biologist
- Conservation Biologist
- Wetlands Biologist
- Water Quality Specialist
- Research Scientist
- Sustainability Specialist
- Climate Change Analyst
- Environmental Monitoring
- Environmental Health and Safety Specialist
- Environmental Restoration Planner
- Industrial Ecologist
- Environmental Protection
- Policy Analyst
- Land Manager
Internships & Work Experience
As you earn your bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science at York College, you’ll use the same types of equipment as scientists in professional laboratories. Even better, you’ll get firsthand experience working on real-world problems.
Project-based learning is core to a York College education, and students have the opportunity to work on initiatives like the campus stream restoration project, or campus-wide programs that help reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Students may also choose to take part in an off-campus internship, where they can put their skills to work in the “real world.” You’ll be well prepared for this experience, with coursework that focuses not only on STEM knowledge, but also communication and other essential skills that are highly valued by employers.
Mentorship & Community
Undergraduate research is important for careers in environmental science — whether you’ll be starting a new job right after graduation, or you’re planning to do further research in graduate school. As an Environmental Science major at York College, you’ll have the opportunity to enroll in the Department of Biology’s research series. In this program, you’ll conduct research alongside a faculty mentor.
You’ll also be part of a campus community where sustainability is an ever-growing focus. A number of student organizations are involved with efforts to support our environment, including student-run Spartans for Sustainability.
Environmental Science Courses
Your class schedule will include core courses for your major, Gen Next general education classes, and electives.
| Course Name | Course Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Evolution, Ecology, and Diversity | BIO 152 | 4 Credits |
| Environmental Biology | BIO 212 | 3 Credits |
| Sustainability and Psychology | PSY 215 | 3 Credits |
| Ecological Action | BIO 404 | 4 Credits |
Careers in Environmental Science
A bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science opens up a variety of career opportunities. Some of your options may include:
Ecologist
Wildlife Biologist
Water Quality Specialist
Environmental Restoration Planner
Research Scientist
Land Manager
Build your dream career, one day at a time.
This is day one. From your first semester on campus through graduation day, York College offers expert advice, professional development opportunities, and personalized support to help you navigate the choices that influence your future.
Explore resources for a successful college experience:
Meet the Faculty
View All Faculty
Environmental Science in Action
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