Environmental science is an interdisciplinary science that uses concepts and information from the natural sciences – ecology, biology, chemistry, and geology – and also from the social sciences – economics, politics, and ethics – to help us understand how the earth works; how we are affecting the earth’s life-support systems (environment) for us and other forms of life; and how to deal with the environmental problems we face.

Thus, the goal of the minor is to have all students complete a core course in Environmental Science, which incorporates each of these disciplines. Then, the student will be able to choose the discipline within the Environmental Studies program he or she wishes to pursue in greater detail, with core courses in biology, chemistry, and geology, and more specialized courses later on. Finally, each student will complete an independent study project depending upon his or her special interests, which can be arranged through numerous professional contacts of the faculty.

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