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• The Environmental Studies Student

Two scenes stand out in my mind from my visit to Brazil’s Wetland: Forests burning before seed planting and trees as hedgerows. Before the planting season, I could see the leafless remnants of burnt trees still standing. The burning of pristine forests destroys both the habitats and countless species which depend on and thrive in these habitats. The few remaining bare, scarred trees silently convey the cost to our natural resources of pursuing our economic interests. Some forests are preserved by government edict issued in response to international pressure. But most of this preservation occurs alongside major roads — not to protect the ecosystem, but to prevent disturbance to ranches and farms along the highways. The clash between economic and environmental concerns that I witnessed in Brazil fascinates me and attracts me to the Environmental Studies Program.

Two courses in my geography department increased my interest in the connection between the environment and economics: Conservation of Underdeveloped Countries and Environmental Impact Analysis. In the former, we studied the problems of natural resource management in developing countries. The balance is always tilted toward economic growth at the expense of environmental preservation. For example, because the Pantanal Wetland could become a highly productive agricultural system once it’s drained, it is drained regardless of the destruction that drainage causes to the ecosystem. Only portions of the wetland are preserved for tourist purposes.

The other course that piqued my interest is an interdisciplinary course called Environmental Impact Analysis in which we, as a group, created matrix and flow diagrams discussing the economic and environmental impact of logging and preservation of old growth forests. I was able to use tools that I acquired in my economics and environmental studies classes. In general, logging creates economic benefits at the local level. It increases employment in the timber industry and subsequently in related non-timber industries; it also benefits local government. Yet, it has great deleterious environmental effects: soil erosion, watershed destruction, and a decrease in species diversity due to loss of habitat. The logging industry represents the classic clash between economic and environmental interests.

I also took two sequential classes in the economics department that are related to Resource Management — Theories of Growth & Development and Policies for Economic Development. Because the courses were taught by a professor who is concerned chiefly with economic growth, I learned the standard economic rationalizations for development unrestrained by environmental concerns.

In addition to my interest in resource management policies, I have a specific interest in Geographical Information System (GIS), a powerful tool for natural resource management. After taking several related classes in GIS, I began interning for the National Park Service (NPS). After I learn how to use ARC/INFO, a leading GIS package, I will assist the NPS in constructing projects. Some of my duties include spatial and non-spatial data analysis, digitizing themes such as fire locations, vegetation, wildlife habitats, etc., and tabular and graphical presentation of results. I hope to use the tools I acquire during this internship in my continuing study of our environment.

I would like to study the social and economic factors that influence environmental policy formation. For example, because people worry more about pollution than endangered species, laws and regulations concerning environmental pollution are more numerous and stricter than for bio-diversity. Within the School of Environmental Studies, I have a particular interest in the emphasis: Economics, Policy, and Management. This emphasis deals with how economic factors can create negative externalities, such as pollution, and need to be regulated. This emphasis also tries to consider non-economic values, such as aesthetic pleasure and species diversity. It also discusses tools like GIS and system analysis that apply to environmental management. Because of my interest in GIS, economics, and environmental studies, this emphasis suits me perfectly. Furthermore, the interdisciplinary approach of the School of Environmental Studies attracts me since it combines social science’s strengths with a knowledge of the natural sciences necessary to protect and preserve the environment.

After completing my masters program, I would like to continue my education and obtain a Ph.D. in natural resource management. This degree would enable me to combine a teaching career with advising business and government on natural resource management issues. Teaching college students is more than a one-way channel; I would also learn from their questions like my professors have from mine. In advising business and government, I can help them strike a balance between economic and environmental concerns. GIS will be a useful tool in helping me give them crucial information.

I have enjoyed an interdisciplinary approach in my environmental studies major and become fascinated by the clash between social interests, especially economics, and environmental needs. I pursued an additional major in economics to better understand this conflict. Furthermore, my work for the NPS will train me in the latest techniques in natural resource management. I would like to continue exploring this clash and resource management in the School of Environmental Studies. Ultimately, I would like to teach and work in natural resource management. Ideally, I would like to find ways for allowing development while preventing the burning of beautiful and valuable eco-systems like the Pantanal Wetland.

Other Sample Essays

Sustainable Summer

The Common App Essay: Tips for Sustainability and Environmentally-Themed Applications

In a companion post , I reviewed the college admissions process from the perspective of a sustainability-themed applicant. I broke down the five different components of a college application in the context of admissions, both broadly speaking and for those emphasizing an environmental focus in their application. In this article, I will take a detailed look at the common app essay and supplements.

Common App Essay and Supplements

Time management.

Understandably as an English major, writing my Common App essay and supplements was one of my favorite parts. Who doesn’t love writing about oneself? However, writing your personal essay and supplements can easily become a drag if you don’t budget your time well. Completing my personal essay and supplements was incredibly time consuming and needed to be done on top of my senior year workload. Many high schools will dedicate at least part of their senior English/Writing curriculum to the personal essay, aiding the students by teaching methods and techniques to approach personal writing and then providing teacher comments and feedback on drafts. Nevertheless, writing your personal essay and supplements will be a lot of outside work and budgeting your time accordingly and setting goals for completion will avoid the possibility of procrastination. You also need to account for the time editing your writing will take. No piece of writing will be perfect on the first draft, even from a great writer. Writing multiple drafts and having your peers and teachers make comments on your writing, as well as your own self-editing ensures that you’re going along the writing process to produce your best work.

Choosing Your Topic

Choosing your topic for your personal essay is challenging and sometimes you may end up completely switching subjects midway of writing it. What you choose to write about for your personal essay is essential in making your application stand out amidst the thousands of applications the admissions counselors are reading. It’s important to note that even if your whole application’s theme centers around environmental interests and sustainability, your personal essay does not necessarily need to talk about that. Some people choose to take a more personal route, perhaps writing about a familial circumstance, personal obstacle they’ve overcome, or defining moment they’ve had. As long as you feel like your subject matter is unique to you and you’re able to produce a well-written personal essay regarding it, go for it!

Supplements DOs and DON’Ts

• DO be more creative in your writing, if your supplement questions allow it. My senior year, one of the Tufts University supplements was “What makes you happy?” This was probably one of the most fun supplements to write, as I got to write about my love for The Office, which definitely isn’t the typical college supplement topic. That being said, the creative route isn’t for every supplement. Sometimes the college admissions wants a simple, well-written, more formal response to their supplemental questions.
• DO vary what you write about, particularly between your Common App essay and supplements. If you’ve already written about a sustainability or environmental program, great! What’s something else unique you can write about? Perhaps a leadership role you had in an extracurricular? Or a team sport you participated or held a leadership role in?
• DO be concise when you’re writing. Most supplements have a 200-300 word limit, some being as little as 100 words. Therefore, the flowery and over-worded language some of us may have a habit of writing with has no place on your college application.
• DO proofread ALL of your supplements and Common App essay. I’ve heard a couple of horror stories of students sending their “Why Lehigh?” supplement along to Tufts. That’s an easy way to be thrown in rejection pile.

Talking About Sustainability and the Environment in Your Writing

Choosing to write about sustainability and environmental leadership already displays certain characteristics about you to your college admissions counselor: you have a passion that you’re motivated about and you have leadership qualities to pursue your passion.

• To begin writing, think of a subject, possibly a certain instance or experience that you’re able to reflect on and clearly address the looming questions the college admissions counselors will have about you- Who are you? What are you interested in/what matters to you? How are you unique amongst all the applicants I’m going through?
• Write! It doesn’t have to be polished or clearly organized, as long as you’re getting your ideas down in a somewhat coherent way that you can shift through later.
• As a general rule about writing personal essays, remind yourself to show, not tell what you want to convey to the college admission counselors reading your essay. Simple statements like “I’m hard working” in your essay shows that one, you’re unable to write tactifully about ways that show that you’re hardworking and two, that these cover statements don’t actually prove that you are hard working. Rather, write about an instance that shows your work ethic and reflect on it.
• Remember the word limit. On first drafts you can go a bit above or a bit below, but within reason- an 800-word essay is easier to cut down than over 1,000-word essay.
• Drafts. As mentioned before, drafts are key to producing your best writing. Having a peer  read over your essay and asking what their biggest takeaway about you was is good way to see where your essay may need to be strengthened.
• Avoid clichès. Particularly if you’re writing about a certain experience, possibly a study abroad, do not recount the typical “This was a life-changing experience” or “I’ve seen the world, I’m so open-minded now.” Particularly in the realm of doing community service, do not write as if you’ve saved the world if you’ve done a community service trip to a developing country through a program that cost you thousands of dollars.
• An easy way of avoiding clichès is being specific. If you did feel like a particular trip or program changed your perspective or the way you think, then how? If you’re truly passionate about community service, write about any particular realms you’re interested in or any goals you have on the horizon for yourself? If you’re writing about your interest in the environment, try to pinpoint what aspects of the environment you’re most passionate about: the food industry, environmental policy, renewable energy, wildlife conservation? Being specific allows the reader to get more of a sense of who you are. You aren’t just someone who’s passionate about the environment, but rather someone who is interested in food policy and is passionate about stopping the unsustainable agricultural practices that big corporations use.

Eana is an alumna of Sustainable Summer and a current undergraduate at Colby College. 

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the best ap environmental science review guide.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Knowing how to review for an AP exam can be challenging. Based on average exam scores, it appears that many students who take AP Environmental Science don't adequately prepare for the final test.

Fortunately, if you're not sure where to start, this guide will walk you through the complete AP Environmental Science review process . We'll start by going over the format of the AP exam and what it covers, including sample questions. We'll then move on to helpful review strategies and the plan you should follow to prep for the exam.

What's the Format of the AP Environmental Science Exam?

The AP Environmental Science exam changed significantly in 2020 , so it's important that you know whether your review materials are up-to-date or not.

The new test is two hours and 40 minutes long and contains 80 multiple-choice questions and three free-response questions. (Previously, the test lasted three hours and included 100 multiple-choice questions and four free-response questions.) In addition, you are allowed to use a graphing calculator throughout the entire exam.

You can learn more about these major changes to the exam in the new APES Course Description .

Here's a quick overview of the new AP Enviro exam format:

As you can see, the multiple-choice section, which comes first, is worth 60% of your final AP score and consists of 80 questions in 90 minutes; this means you'll have a little more than a minute per question. There are no penalties for wrong answers , so be sure to always put something down!

Each multiple-choice question comes with four answer choices, labeled A-D . (Before, the APES exam had five answer choices for each question.) You'll get both stand-alone questions and questions in sets. In total, you can expect three to four sets on quantitative data (charts, graphs, etc.), three to four sets on qualitative data (maps, models, etc.), and five questions on a passage or text .

The free-response section counts for 40% of your total AP score. You'll need to answer three free-response questions. E ach of them is worth 10 raw points , or about 13.3% of your final score. Since you will get 70 minutes for this section, this means you'll have around 23 minutes per question.

The three free-response question types will remain consistent from year to year:

• Question 1: Design an investigation
• Question 2: Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution
• Question 3: Analyze an environmental problem and propose a solution by doing calculations

What Does the AP Environmental Science Exam Cover?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of APES review, it'll help to broadly go over what the exam covers to help put everything in context. Environmental science is a multi-disciplinary topic that looks at concepts from science, history, current events, and more.

In this section, we'll be taking a closer look at the major themes and topics on the exam.

AP Environmental Science Big Ideas

The test will touch on many areas, but there are four main themes, or "Big Ideas," as the College Board calls them, it seeks to focus on. Every question you see on the exam will relate back to at least one of these ideas, so they're helpful to keep in mind as you navigate your AP review process.

Here is how each Big Idea is described in the AP Enviro Course and Exam Description .

Big Idea 1: Energy Transfer

Energy conversions underlie all ecological processes. Energy cannot be created; it must come from somewhere. As energy flows through systems, at each step, more of it becomes unusable.

Big Idea 2: Interactions Between Earth Systems

The Earth is one interconnected system. Natural systems change over time and space. Biogeochemical systems vary in ability to recover from disturbances.

Big Idea 3: Interactions Between Different Species and the Environment

Humans alter natural systems and have had an impact on the environment for millions of years. Technology and population growth have enabled humans to increase both the rate and scale of their impact on the environment.

Big Idea 4: Sustainability

Human survival depends on developing practices that will achieve sustainable systems. A suitable combination of conservation and development is required. The management of resources is essential. Understanding the role of cultural, social, and economic factors is vital to the development of solutions.

AP Environmental Science Units

AP Environmental Science also has nine units , which make up the content in the course and on the final exam. These major topics are more specific than the above themes, and knowing them will help give you a better idea of what exactly will be covered on the exam.

Each unit contains several smaller topics. We've included a few examples of these for each major unit below. For the complete list of topics, refer to page 20 of the Course and Exam Description .

What Do Questions Look Like on the AP Enviro Exam?

There are two sections on the AP Environmental Science exam: Multiple Choice and Free Response. Official sample problems from both sections are shown below. Samples come from the 2019-20 AP Enviro Course and Exam Description .

Multiple-Choice Sample Question

To answer this multiple-choice question, you msut know what the term "nonanthropogenic" means . Let's think of it in terms of the original term "anthropogenic," which refers to things (often problems with pollution) related to or caused by human activity; therefore, "nonanthropogenic" is things that are not caused by humans but rather by natural processes.

This leaves us with two possible answer choices: A or B (C and D are both human contributors to pollution in the atmosphere, meaning they are anthropogenic). Photosynthesis, or choice B, doesn't make any sense because in this process, plants transform carbon dioxide into oxygen, not the other way around.

With cellular respiration, or choice A, animals breathe in oxygen and create carbon dioxide, so the correct answer must be A .

Other multiple-choice APES questions may refer to a graph or text, require calculations, or be part of a set of related questions. Later in this guide, I'll go over where you can find more multiple-choice practice questions and how to use them in your AP Enviro prep.

Free-Response Sample Question

Every free-response question on AP Enviro is worth 10 raw points . Here, you must propose a solution to an environmental problem using mathematical calculations (remember, you'll have access to a graphing calculator).

You can earn up to 1 point for (a), 3 points for (b), and 2 points each for (c), (d), and (e).

To see complete answers to this question and other APES free-response questions, check out our dedicated guide to the AP Environmental Science Free-Response Section .

How to Review for AP Environmental Science: 7-Step Guide

In this section, we'll walk you through each step you should take during your AP Environmental Science review. Follow these seven steps, be thoughtful about your weaknesses and progress, and you'll be on your way to success!

How long will it take to review for the AP Environmental Science AP exam? That'll vary for everyone, but below are some estimates of how long you should spend on specific steps :

• Take and grade your first practice test: 3.5 hours
• Analyze your mistakes: 1 hour
• Review your weak areas and revise test strategies: 3 hours
• Take and grade another practice test: 3.5 hours

So, going through one cycle of these steps will take you around 11 hours. Remember that you might want to repeat this entire cycle to really get the information to sink in.

Now then, let's take a look at the seven-step AP Environmental Science review you should follow!

Step 1: Get Your Review Materials Ready

Before you begin reviewing, make sure you have all the materials you'll need ready and organized. It's best to start this step around the end of fall , but even if you're just starting a few weeks before the exam, never fear! A handful of weeks of dedicated studying can be enough to help you score well on the APES test.

So what materials do you need? Many people find it helpful to purchase a review book. Unlike your textbook, review books focus specifically on the information you will need to know for the AP exam, so you're not wading through extraneous info you don't need to worry about.

Before getting an AP Enviro review book, it's a good idea to read reviews online or ask your classmates if they have a book they'd recommend. In general, books by The Princeton Review and Barron's are solid choices.

Don't neglect your class materials, though! Your notes and textbook can be extremely useful for in-depth review of specific topics you want to brush up on.

Finally, practice tests are one of the most important ways to review for the APES test , so you want to make sure you've gathered as many of them as possible. You can check out our collection of AP Environmental Science practice tests or use the following links for quick access:

• The 1998 AP Enviro practice exam is the only free official APES practice test
• For free-response questions, there are lots of official examples from previous AP exams
• For multiple-choice questions, there are 15 examples in the 2019-20 APES Course Description
• For unofficial practice, Varsity Tutors offers a solid 100-question multiple-choice APES test

Step 2: Take and Score a Practice Test

The next step is to take a complete practice test under realistic testing conditions (90 minutes for multiple choice and 70 minutes for FRQs, all taken in one sitting). We recommend combining the Varsity Tutors multiple-choice test with a set of official FRQs and saving the free full-length official practice test from 1998 for later on in your prep.

After you take the test, score it to see how well you did . For your FRQs, use the official (and fully updated) scoring guidelines . Note that many unofficial resources are automatically scored, but if you need help estimating your final AP score on a scale of 1-5 , you can use this AP score calculator .

Step 3: Set a Score Target

Now that you know how well you're currently scoring on the APES exam, you can set a score target. Despite its low score averages , AP Environmental Science is generally considered one of the less challenging AP exams , so most students who are able to commit some time to studying should aim for a 4 or a 5 . However, if you're currently scoring a 2 or lower or know that you won't be able to study much, you might want to aim for a 3 instead.

Step 4: Analyze Your Mistakes

You now know what score you're aiming for and how far you are from it; this means that it's time to start analyzing which questions you got wrong and why.

Go through the APES practice test you took and look over every question you got wrong . Think about why you got it wrong and look for patterns. Did you miss a lot of questions that involved calculations? Did you know global change but got most questions on energy resources incorrect?

This might feel like a long and tiresome step, but don't be tempted to skip it. It'll save you time in the long run, and it's really the only way to improve your AP score significantly .

Step 5: Review Your Weak Content Areas

Next, use the information you got from going over your practice exam and focus particularly on improving each of your weak areas . If there are certain topics or types of questions that gave you significant trouble, review your notes and do practice questions until you feel more confident with them.

Don't just passively read through your notes— actively engage with them . Underline important words and phrases, rewrite key points in your own words, and regularly stop and go over in your head what you just learned to make sure you're actually retaining the information.

Step 6: Revise Your Test-Taking Strategies

A lot of the time, it's not just the content of the AP test that's challenging but also how much you're expected to do in just two hours and 40 minutes that can cause you to make mistakes. If you find yourself either running out of time or making careless errors, you likely need to make some changes to how quickly or how slowly you move through the exam.

If you often run out of time, then spend future practice tests timing yourself more carefully. For the multiple-choice section, you'll have 90 minutes to answer 80 questions; that's 67.5 seconds per question. Getting stuck on just one question can prevent you from answering multiple other questions, which can really hurt your score.

If you've looked at a question for 90 seconds and still have no idea how to answer it, skip it and come back to it at the end if you have time remaining. (Remember to answer every question, though, by the time the section ends, even if it's a random guess; there are no point deductions for incorrect answers, so don't leave any questions blank!)

For the free-response section, you'll have about 23 minutes to answer each question; however, no one will force you to move on to the next question, so it can be easy to lose track of time. Taking practice free-response sections and carefully timing yourself can help with this issue.

Also, if you find yourself making numerous careless errors on the exam, try to slow down a bit and read each question twice before you begin answering it.

For both sections of the AP Environmental Science test, answering practice questions regularly can help you get a handle on timing issues and become more used to how long you will have to answer each question.

Step 7: Take Another Practice Test

After all your hard work, it's time to take another complete practice test to see how much you've improved. Follow the same rules as for your first practice test and figure out your score. If you've improved a lot and are close to your score target, you might only need to do light studying up until the APES exam in May.

If you've improved but still aren't exactly where you want to be, repeat the above steps again to continue working on your weaknesses.

If, however, you haven't improved a lot or are still far from your target score, you'll have to change up your methods. Examine how you've been reviewing the material and which questions you're getting wrong. Maybe you weren't paying close enough attention or were passively reading through your notes instead of actively engaging with them.

Make a list of things you'll change (such as studying more actively, paying even closer attention to your notes, etc.) and implement those changes as you go through these steps again.

Wrap-Up: Key Tips for Your AP Environmental Science Review

Being well prepared and ready for the AP Environmental Science exam will give you a much better shot at doing well on the test. Make sure you know all about the new 2020 exam format and what material it covers before you begin your review.

Your AP Environmental Science review process should include the following steps:

Step 1: Gather review materials Step 2: Take and grade an initial practice test Step 3: Set a score target Step 4: Analyze your mistakes Step 5: Review weak content areas Step 6: Revise test strategies Step 7: Take and grade another practice test to see how you've improved

Remember that it's OK to repeat this cycle as many times as you need to so you can ultimately reach your goal score on test day!

What's Next?

Want some more practice materials for the AP Environmental Science Exam? We've got you covered with our huge collection of free and official APES practice quizzes and tests .

Need some help reviewing for your other AP classes? Learn the five study tips and strategies you should use for all AP exams .

Are you self-studying for AP Environmental Science or another AP exam? Learn the seven steps you should be following when self-studying in order to maximize your chances of getting a great AP score.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Environment

100+ Environmental Science Research Topics & Ideas

Finding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. Here, we’ll explore a variety research ideas and topic thought-starters related to various environmental science disciplines, including ecology, oceanography, hydrology, geology, soil science, environmental chemistry, environmental economics, and environmental ethics.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the environmental sciences. This is the starting point though. To develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. Also be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to develop a high-quality research topic from scratch.

Overview: Environmental Topics

• Ecology /ecological science
• Atmospheric science
• Oceanography
• Soil science
• Environmental chemistry
• Environmental economics
• Environmental ethics
• Examples  of dissertations and theses

Topics & Ideas: Ecological Science

• The impact of land-use change on species diversity and ecosystem functioning in agricultural landscapes
• The role of disturbances such as fire and drought in shaping arid ecosystems
• The impact of climate change on the distribution of migratory marine species
• Investigating the role of mutualistic plant-insect relationships in maintaining ecosystem stability
• The effects of invasive plant species on ecosystem structure and function
• The impact of habitat fragmentation caused by road construction on species diversity and population dynamics in the tropics
• The role of ecosystem services in urban areas and their economic value to a developing nation
• The effectiveness of different grassland restoration techniques in degraded ecosystems
• The impact of land-use change through agriculture and urbanisation on soil microbial communities in a temperate environment
• The role of microbial diversity in ecosystem health and nutrient cycling in an African savannah

Topics & Ideas: Atmospheric Science

• The impact of climate change on atmospheric circulation patterns above tropical rainforests
• The role of atmospheric aerosols in cloud formation and precipitation above cities with high pollution levels
• The impact of agricultural land-use change on global atmospheric composition
• Investigating the role of atmospheric convection in severe weather events in the tropics
• The impact of urbanisation on regional and global atmospheric ozone levels
• The impact of sea surface temperature on atmospheric circulation and tropical cyclones
• The impact of solar flares on the Earth’s atmospheric composition
• The impact of climate change on atmospheric turbulence and air transportation safety
• The impact of stratospheric ozone depletion on atmospheric circulation and climate change
• The role of atmospheric rivers in global water supply and sea-ice formation

Topics & Ideas: Oceanography

• The impact of ocean acidification on kelp forests and biogeochemical cycles
• The role of ocean currents in distributing heat and regulating desert rain
• The impact of carbon monoxide pollution on ocean chemistry and biogeochemical cycles
• Investigating the role of ocean mixing in regulating coastal climates
• The impact of sea level rise on the resource availability of low-income coastal communities
• The impact of ocean warming on the distribution and migration patterns of marine mammals
• The impact of ocean deoxygenation on biogeochemical cycles in the arctic
• The role of ocean-atmosphere interactions in regulating rainfall in arid regions
• The impact of ocean eddies on global ocean circulation and plankton distribution
• The role of ocean-ice interactions in regulating the Earth’s climate and sea level

Tops & Ideas: Hydrology

• The impact of agricultural land-use change on water resources and hydrologic cycles in temperate regions
• The impact of agricultural groundwater availability on irrigation practices in the global south
• The impact of rising sea-surface temperatures on global precipitation patterns and water availability
• Investigating the role of wetlands in regulating water resources for riparian forests
• The impact of tropical ranches on river and stream ecosystems and water quality
• The impact of urbanisation on regional and local hydrologic cycles and water resources for agriculture
• The role of snow cover and mountain hydrology in regulating regional agricultural water resources
• The impact of drought on food security in arid and semi-arid regions
• The role of groundwater recharge in sustaining water resources in arid and semi-arid environments
• The impact of sea level rise on coastal hydrology and the quality of water resources

Topics & Ideas: Geology

• The impact of tectonic activity on the East African rift valley
• The role of mineral deposits in shaping ancient human societies
• The impact of sea-level rise on coastal geomorphology and shoreline evolution
• Investigating the role of erosion in shaping the landscape and impacting desertification
• The impact of mining on soil stability and landslide potential
• The impact of volcanic activity on incoming solar radiation and climate
• The role of geothermal energy in decarbonising the energy mix of megacities
• The impact of Earth’s magnetic field on geological processes and solar wind
• The impact of plate tectonics on the evolution of mammals
• The role of the distribution of mineral resources in shaping human societies and economies, with emphasis on sustainability

Topics & Ideas: Soil Science

• The impact of dam building on soil quality and fertility
• The role of soil organic matter in regulating nutrient cycles in agricultural land
• The impact of climate change on soil erosion and soil organic carbon storage in peatlands
• Investigating the role of above-below-ground interactions in nutrient cycling and soil health
• The impact of deforestation on soil degradation and soil fertility
• The role of soil texture and structure in regulating water and nutrient availability in boreal forests
• The impact of sustainable land management practices on soil health and soil organic matter
• The impact of wetland modification on soil structure and function
• The role of soil-atmosphere exchange and carbon sequestration in regulating regional and global climate
• The impact of salinization on soil health and crop productivity in coastal communities

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Chemistry

• The impact of cobalt mining on water quality and the fate of contaminants in the environment
• The role of atmospheric chemistry in shaping air quality and climate change
• The impact of soil chemistry on nutrient availability and plant growth in wheat monoculture
• Investigating the fate and transport of heavy metal contaminants in the environment
• The impact of climate change on biochemical cycling in tropical rainforests
• The impact of various types of land-use change on biochemical cycling
• The role of soil microbes in mediating contaminant degradation in the environment
• The impact of chemical and oil spills on freshwater and soil chemistry
• The role of atmospheric nitrogen deposition in shaping water and soil chemistry
• The impact of over-irrigation on the cycling and fate of persistent organic pollutants in the environment

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Economics

• The impact of climate change on the economies of developing nations
• The role of market-based mechanisms in promoting sustainable use of forest resources
• The impact of environmental regulations on economic growth and competitiveness
• Investigating the economic benefits and costs of ecosystem services for African countries
• The impact of renewable energy policies on regional and global energy markets
• The role of water markets in promoting sustainable water use in southern Africa
• The impact of land-use change in rural areas on regional and global economies
• The impact of environmental disasters on local and national economies
• The role of green technologies and innovation in shaping the zero-carbon transition and the knock-on effects for local economies
• The impact of environmental and natural resource policies on income distribution and poverty of rural communities

Topics & Ideas: Environmental Ethics

• The ethical foundations of environmentalism and the environmental movement regarding renewable energy
• The role of values and ethics in shaping environmental policy and decision-making in the mining industry
• The impact of cultural and religious beliefs on environmental attitudes and behaviours in first world countries
• Investigating the ethics of biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered species in palm oil plantations
• The ethical implications of sea-level rise for future generations and vulnerable coastal populations
• The role of ethical considerations in shaping sustainable use of natural forest resources
• The impact of environmental justice on marginalized communities and environmental policies in Asia
• The ethical implications of environmental risks and decision-making under uncertainty
• The role of ethics in shaping the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable future for the construction industry
• The impact of environmental values on consumer behaviour and the marketplace: a case study of the ‘bring your own shopping bag’ policy

Examples: Real Dissertation & Thesis Topics

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various environmental science-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• The physiology of microorganisms in enhanced biological phosphorous removal (Saunders, 2014)
• The influence of the coastal front on heavy rainfall events along the east coast (Henson, 2019)
• Forage production and diversification for climate-smart tropical and temperate silvopastures (Dibala, 2019)
• Advancing spectral induced polarization for near surface geophysical characterization (Wang, 2021)
• Assessment of Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter and Thamnocephalus platyurus as Tools to Monitor Cyanobacterial Bloom Development and Toxicity (Hipsher, 2019)
• Evaluating the Removal of Microcystin Variants with Powdered Activated Carbon (Juang, 2020)
• The effect of hydrological restoration on nutrient concentrations, macroinvertebrate communities, and amphibian populations in Lake Erie coastal wetlands (Berg, 2019)
• Utilizing hydrologic soil grouping to estimate corn nitrogen rate recommendations (Bean, 2019)
• Fungal Function in House Dust and Dust from the International Space Station (Bope, 2021)
• Assessing Vulnerability and the Potential for Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) in Sudan’s Blue Nile Basin (Mohamed, 2022)
• A Microbial Water Quality Analysis of the Recreational Zones in the Los Angeles River of Elysian Valley, CA (Nguyen, 2019)
• Dry Season Water Quality Study on Three Recreational Sites in the San Gabriel Mountains (Vallejo, 2019)
• Wastewater Treatment Plan for Unix Packaging Adjustment of the Potential Hydrogen (PH) Evaluation of Enzymatic Activity After the Addition of Cycle Disgestase Enzyme (Miessi, 2020)
• Laying the Genetic Foundation for the Conservation of Longhorn Fairy Shrimp (Kyle, 2021).

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. To create a top-notch research topic, you will need to be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you’ll need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

Need more help?

If you’re still feeling a bit unsure about how to find a research topic for your environmental science dissertation or research project, be sure to check out our private coaching services below, as well as our Research Topic Kickstarter .

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The 30 Best Colleges for Environmental Science

What’s covered:, how we made this list, 30 best environmental science schools, what are your chances of acceptance to these top environmental science schools.

Environmental science is a phenomenally important discipline that draws on fields of natural sciences to study the planet, its resources, problems associated with it, and the human impact on the environment. People who study the subject go on to have thriving careers in a number of industries. Common career paths include roles as marine biologists, researchers, consultants, conservationists, environmental engineers, ecologists, educators, meteorologists, environmental lawyers, and more.

To create our list of the best environmental science programs in the country, we examined a range of factors, including the reputation of the program, the overall quality of the school, the popularity of the major in the context of the school, and the size of the program relative to the size of the school.

1. University of California, Berkeley | UC Berkeley

Location: Berkeley, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 30,800

Acceptance Rate: 15%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A

Berkeley’s Environmental Science major is a top-rated, interdisciplinary program. Students explore concepts in biology, ecology, chemistry, toxicology, geology, hydrology, meteorology, geography, engineering, statistics, behavioral science, policy analysis, economics, and law. Students choose a Social Science, Physical Science, or Biological Science Concentration.

The program culminates in a year-long research project — the senior thesis — during which students will investigate an environmental issue and design and execute independent research.

2. Yale University

Location: New Haven, CT

Undergrad Enrollment: 5,900

Acceptance Rate: 5%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1580/33-35

Yale College Environmental Studies offers both BA and BS degrees. The interdisciplinary programs explore concepts in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, encouraging students to grapple with the most challenging environmental problems the world faces today. During their studies, students prepare for the EVST senior essay, the major’s capstone project. 

3. Columbia University

Location: New York, NY

Undergrad Enrollment: 8,200

Acceptance Rate: N/A

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1470-1570/33-35

Columbia’s Environmental Science major explores the interaction between Earth’s physical environment and the biosphere. Students study a range of relevant science fields in depth. The program includes a senior capstone experience, during which majors will complete a research project and a Senior Thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

4. Bucknell University

Location: Lewisburg, PA

Undergrad Enrollment: 3,500

Acceptance Rate: 35%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1210-1410/26-32

At Bucknell, you can major in Environmental Studies or Environmental Science — each pathway leads to a BA. No matter which program you choose, you will partake in experiential learning, visiting local waterways, rural communities, and state forests. You’ll also conduct faculty-led research, traveling around the world to tackle real-world problems — from sustainability in Europe to climate change in Central Asia.

5. University of California, Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 31,500

Acceptance Rate: 14%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1290-1520/29-34

Combining theory, community, and real-world practice, UCLA’s bachelor’s degree in environmental science is a diverse, immersive experience that prepares students to tackle complex environmental issues. Students complete the program by undertaking a Senior Practicum, a year-long capstone program, where they will work alongside peers and a faculty member or another environmental expert.

6. Brown University

Location: Providence, RI

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,000

Acceptance Rate: 8%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1440-1560/33-35

The Institute at Brown for Environment and Society (IBES) offers two undergraduate degrees: an A.B. in Environmental Studies and a Sc.B. in Environmental Science. Both degree paths offer an interdisciplinary approach, immersing students in the natural and social sciences, as well as public policy. Students will also choose among five tracks of study: 

• Air, Climate & Energy
• Conservation Science & Policy
• Environment and Inequality
• Land, Water & Food Security
• Sustainability in Development

7. Colgate University

Location: Hamilton, NY

Undergrad Enrollment: 2,900

Acceptance Rate: 17%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1340-1500/31-34

The Colgate Environmental Studies Program takes an interdisciplinary approach, offering majors in Environmental Biology, Environmental Economics, Environmental Geography, Environmental Geology, and Environmental Studies, along with a minor in Environmental Studies. 

All paths have plenty of opportunities, including extensive study abroad experiences, such as an immersive program at the University of Wollongong in New South Wales, Australia. There are also numerous research opportunities.

8. University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia

Undergrad Enrollment: 11,800

Acceptance Rate: 9%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1460-1570/33-35

The Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Penn offers undergraduate majors in Earth Science (EASC) and Environmental Studies (ENVS), as well as minors in Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geology, and Sustainability and Environmental Management. Students have plenty of research opportunities through programs like Hayden Scholars, along with communities like the Penn Geology Society.

9. Washington University in St. Louis | WashU

Location: Saint Louis, MO

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,700

Acceptance Rate: 13%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1570/33-35

In the Environmental Studies program at WashU, students work to understand the systems that shape the Earth’s environment. Students may major or minor in Environmental Analysis, and an Environmental Studies minor is also available. All programs prepare students to tackle real-world environmental problems through coursework and independent research. They may also participate in interdisciplinary, project-based, community-engaged learning experiences.

10. University of Southern California | USC

Location: Los Angeles

Undergrad Enrollment: 19,900

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1540/32-35

The ENVS degrees at USC are built on specialized natural and social science courses and interdisciplinary courses focusing on sustainability. Students may pursue one of two concentrations toward earning a BA: Science and Management or Policy and Management. Meanwhile, four concentrations are available within the BS degree path: Sustainability and Society, Oceans and People, Climate and Environment, and Environmental Policy.

11.   Northeastern University

Location: Boston, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 13,900

Acceptance Rate: 20%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1540/33-35

By earning a BS in Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, Northeastern graduates gain a foundation in Earth systems, ecology, sustainable development, and required skills courses in data management and geographic information systems. Students choose among four concentrations while participating in interdisciplinary opportunities.

12. University of California, Davis | UC Davis

Location: Davis, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 30,700

Acceptance Rate: 49%

UC Davis’ College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is home to the Environmental Science and Management major. The program includes a capstone course integrating science, policy, management, and biology aspects of the major, and students will gain practical experience through field courses and a required internship. In their junior year, students choose a specialized track from the six options. 

13. University of Texas at Austin | UT Austin

Location: Austin, TX

Undergrad Enrollment: 40,800

Acceptance Rate: 32%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1210-1470/26-33

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science takes an interdisciplinary scientific approach to environmental and sustainability issues, analysis, and management. Students perform field and laboratory work, computer analysis, and original research, toward the goals of preparing students for careers in local, state, and federal government laboratories and nonprofit agencies, environmental consulting firms, environmental education and outreach agencies, and universities and other research settings. 

14. Santa Clara University

Location: Santa Clara, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 5,500

Acceptance Rate: 54%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1290-1470/29-33

The Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences (ESS) at Santa Clara offers interdisciplinary programs of study leading to a BS in environmental science or environmental studies. Students take part in coursework in applied ecology, water resources, climate, renewable energy, and more. They are encouraged to study abroad and pursue research-oriented field programs.

15. Massachusetts Maritime Academy | MMA

Location: Buzzards Bay, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 1,700

Acceptance Rate: 90%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1040-1190/19-25

MMA is uniquely positioned to provide a comprehensive environmental science education through the Marine Science, Safety, and Environmental Protection (MSSEP) program. First-year cadets participate in a tropical ecology field course in Bermuda. 

Cadets will also engage in hands-on and offshore work, as well as participate in a six-week co-op internship and three-credit co-op, while utilizing environmental and marine science technology and developing critical skills in the field.

16. Trinity College

Location: Hartford, CT

Undergrad Enrollment: 2,100

Acceptance Rate: 38%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1333-1480/29-33

Trinity is home to a vibrant ENVS community. The program blends theory and practicing, giving students exposure to concepts and practices in the field. They have plenty of research and hands-on learning opportunities, investigating topics like soil chemistry, home ranges of urban hawk populations, and much more. All of this takes place as part of a comprehensive liberal arts education, where students participate in coursework in environmental policy, nature writing, economics, or anthropology.

17. University of Virginia

Location: Charlottesville

Undergrad Enrollment: 16,700

Acceptance Rate: 23%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1320-1510/30-34

The Department of Environmental Sciences at UVA offers both a BA and a BS. Through a flexible curriculum, students gain an understanding of the scientific processes and problems related to the environment, exploring areas like Ecology, Geoscience, Hydrology, and Atmospheric Science. Students are able to tailor their curriculum to prepare for graduate studies or careers.

18. Colorado College

Location: Colorado Springs, CO

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1250-1455/29-33

Colorado College offers two integrated majors in Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. The Environmental Science major prepares students to investigate the Earth system, focusing on how humans interact with the environment. Meanwhile, the Environmental Studies major prepares students to investigate the complexity of socio-ecological relationships. 

19. Virginia Tech

Location: Blacksburg, VA

Undergrad Enrollment: 27,800

Acceptance Rate: 56%

This interdisciplinary, student-oriented Environmental Science program emphasizes the essential role that ecosystem processes play in sustaining Earth’s inhabitants. There are many options aimed at various areas of focus, such as resource preservation and the rehabilitation of ecosystems. Students gain a practical understanding of the biosphere through experiential learning.

20. Emory University

Location: Atlanta, GA

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1420-1540/32-34

A degree in environmental sciences from Emory has real-world impacts. Students are equipped to address the most important challenges of our world: climate change, disease ecology, food and water security, vector-borne disease, and human impacts on the environment. Students participate in coursework, problem-solving, field activities, and individual study. There are several degree paths available:

• BA Environmental Sciences
• BS Environmental Science Ecology & Conservation Track
• BS Environmental Sciences Earth & Atmospheric Science Track
• BS Environmental Sciences Environment & Health Track
• BS Environmental Sciences Social Science & Policy Track

21. University of Minnesota, Twin Cities | Minnesota

Location: Minneapolis

Undergrad Enrollment: 34,400

Acceptance Rate: 73%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1310-1490/27-32

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Minnesota has existed for more than 125 years, making major contributions toward understanding the Earth and its environment. Environmental Science, Policy and Management is the university’s premier environmental major, preparing the next generation of professionals through interdisciplinary coursework, research, and enrichment experiences. 

As a freshman, you will take core classes and explore other interests, before choosing a track to focus on starting sophomore year:

• Conservation and Resource Management
• Environmental Education and Communication
• Environmental Science
• Policy, Planning, Law and Society

22. Boston College | BC

Location: Chestnut Hill, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 9,900

Acceptance Rate: 19%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1420-1530/33-34

BC’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences offers a breadth of undergraduate programs that prepare students for careers in geosciences, environmental sciences, and beyond. Students may choose between two students: Environmental Geoscience or Geological Sciences. They might also have the opportunity to further customize their studies based on their goals and interests. 

Students are encouraged to study abroad through flexible foreign studies programs and paths. 

23. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Location: Madison

Undergrad Enrollment: 31,700

Acceptance Rate: 57%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1260-1460/27-32

The Environmental Sciences program emphasizes critical thinking and problem solving, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in nonprofit and private sectors or graduate school. Students may pursue their degrees through either the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) or the College of Letters & Science (L&S) under the BS or BA degree programs. They may also pursue double majors with a variety of other majors.

24. University of Maryland, College Park

Location: College Park, MD

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1270-1480/29-34

The Environmental Science and Policy program produces leaders who will tackle the most pressing environmental challenges of today. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to grapple with complex issues like global trends such as environmental change, global food security, the optimization of urban environments, and the development of green technologies. Students choose among several tracks.

25. University of California, Santa Barbara

Location: Santa Barbara, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 23,300

Acceptance Rate: 37%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1230-1480/26-33 (currently test-blind)

Celebrating 50 years, the Environmental Studies Program at UC Santa Barbara offers three undergraduate degrees: BA and BS degrees in Environmental Studies and a program in Hydrological Sciences and Policy. All paths engage students in foundations in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

Students are encouraged to study abroad — currently, 45 students from Environmental Studies are studying abroad in 17 different countries.

26. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, CA

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1420-1570/31-35

The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability offers several paths toward a grounding in the environmental sciences. The Earth Systems Program is an interdisciplinary environmental science major, encouraging students to grapple with complex environmental problems caused by human activities in conjunction with natural changes in the Earth system. The School also offers the Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources (E-IPER), and the Sustainability and Science Practice Program.

27. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Undergrad Enrollment: 19,100

Acceptance Rate: 24%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1270-1470/27-33

UNC’s Environmental Science and Studies programs provide an interdisciplinary perspective on examining and training for work in environmental fields. There are many opportunities available for undergraduates, such as participating in an honors track, internships, study abroad, research, and experiential education. They can also join the Carolina Environmental Student Alliance (CESA), an interdisciplinary organization dedicated to uniting the environmental interests of students across campus. 

28. North Carolina State University | NC State

Location: Raleigh, NC

Undergrad Enrollment: 25,100

Acceptance Rate: 47%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1270-1440/27-32

The NC State Environmental Sciences program prepares students to become these experts through an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the environment. Students explore complex, interdisciplinary environmental issues through coursework in topics like Climate Change and Sustainability, Energy and the Environment, and Analysis of Environmental Issues. Then, they customize their degree paths, designing a focal area of study or selecting a minor.

Students also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on internships and experiential learning.

29. Villanova University

Location: Villanova, PA

Undergrad Enrollment: 6,900

Acceptance Rate: 25%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1350-1490/31-34

Villanova’s BS in Environmental Science gives students a firm grounding in the technical knowledge and experience necessary for understanding the biological, chemical, and physical aspects of the environment. The program focuses on the application of principles critical for understanding the natural and physical environments of the Earth. 

30. University of Delaware

Location: Newark, DE

Acceptance Rate: 70%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1170-1350/26-31

The Environmental Science major at UD gives students unique insight into how natural processes shape the natural environment and how humans impact the planet. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach to encourage students to grapple with issues like habitat loss, sustainable development, water quality, biodiversity, climate change, renewable energy, and more. Students choose among the following tracks, all while participating in research and experiential learning:

• Climate and Society
• Energy and Environment
• Marine Science
• Water Science

Many of the colleges and programs on this list are highly competitive. What are your chances of admission? Find out with our chancing engine . We will calculate your true odds of admission to these and other schools across the country based on your academic and extracurricular profiles, plus give you tips on how to improve your chances of acceptance.

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Environmental Science Personal Statement Examples

What is an environmental science personal statement?

Writing a personal statement for environmental science is a chance to sell yourself to the admissions tutors and show them why you would make a great candidate.

It’s a place to describe your skills and strengths, as well as your career plans.

You are allowed up to 4000 characters to explain why you are applying for an environmental science degree, so you need to make sure your statement is as polished as possible to stand out from the crowd.

How do I write a successful environmental science personal statement?

Good environment science personal statements always use evidence to support their claims. You need to convince admissions tutors that you’re a good match for the course, so if you claim to be committed or inquisitive, then use examples from your life to back it up.

To write a great environmenal science personal statement you need to start early, brainstorm some ideas, and then begin your first draft during the summer holidays.

This will then need to be carefully revised and edited before asking family and friends for feedback. Incorporate their comments and suggestions, and see how it is improved before asking them to look at it again.

Read through our environmental science personal statement examples above to get an idea of what a good statement looks like.

Make sure you proofread your statement for grammar and spelling before sending it off, and if you feel you need a little extra help, take a look at our personal statement editing services .

What should I include in my environmental science personal statement?

Many students choose to start their statement by picking a specific aspect of environmental science and explaining why they enjoy it, e.g. ecology, conservation, earth structure, hydrology, etc.

Admissions tutors want candidates that are as passionate about the subject as they are.

As well as your motivations for studying environmental science, think about your hobbies and extracurricular activities too. What skills have you learned from these and how will these help you in your environmental science degree?

Talk about any work experience placements you have completed, e.g. shadowing an environmental worker or research technician. What did you take away from this experience? Do you feel you have all the necessary personal traits and qualities that make a good environmental science student?

Your wider reading is also important, so it's worth mentioning anything you've read recently that you found interesting and why. Generally, admissions tutors like students who express their views and opinions, and can back them up with evidence.

For more help and advice on what to write in your environmental science personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
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• Analysis Of A Personal Statement
• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
• Personal Statement FAQs
• Personal Statement Timeline
• 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
• What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

Home — Application Essay — Liberal Arts Schools — Why I Choose Environmental Science and Sustainability Major

Why I Choose Environmental Science and Sustainability Major

• University: Cornell University

About this sample

Words: 626 |

Published: Jul 18, 2018

Words: 626 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

At the age of twelve, I wasn't much of an ornithologist, but even I could tell that there was something wrong with the Okhla Bird Sanctuary. The park itself was beautiful, with artistically carved bushes, an overflowing lake, and rolling grasses as far as the eye could see. The question that arose, though, was where were the birds?

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'Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned'?

Maybe these magnificent creatures turned up their noses at the artificial beautification of their natural home. Maybe they just craved the city life. Either way, their quest for something better should have led them to the Delhi ridge, just 10 miles away, renowned for its surprisingly thick thorn forest -- an ideal place for birds to nest. Why, then, were there no birds here either? Just last year, 4000 km away, the mighty Beirut River transformed itself into a 'river of blood.' At the same time, Jaws sprang to life with the sighting of a bloody shark in a bustling New York subway. Farther away, the Galápagos Islands mourned the loss of 'lonesome George,' a symbol of the need for conservation and the last tortoise of his kind. What in the world is happening? From the exotic species of Madagascar to the birds of Delhi, animals are changing their migration patterns, altering their eating habits, or -- far worse -- going extinct. Freak storms and typhoons are leading to some of the largest natural disasters chronicled in history. Are these events connected, in some sort of bizarre, roundabout way? Could these be the Earth's strategy for reclaiming her property?

A curiously profound phrase in my geography textbook -- "The world is developing economically, but regressing environmentally" -- establishes such a connection. With lofty developmental projects acting as triggers, Mother Earth is emitting mighty sneezes, attempting to expel the harm we have caused. When you realize that entire species have been wiped off the face of the Earth in your own lifetime, you begin to wonder: who is to say that the next species won't be us? Pushed around like rag dolls by the sheer force of Nature's anger, we cannot keep fighting her at every turn or forcing her to do as we wish: our endeavors to 'better human lifestyles' must incorporate a more adaptive and accepting approach to development.

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As a resident of a country where 'environment' and 'economics' have not yet learned to coexist peacefully, where misguided food security policies have led to the chemical poisoning of the soils of Punjab, where cows eating plastic bags is a part of 'urban life,' I was ecstatic to find a major that so seamlessly blends the human and the natural. Take the idea of 'sulfur spraying' the Earth (one of my absolute favorite ideas, even if exists only in theory). The thought behind this practice is that sulfur would considerably reduce the temperature of the Earth, in turn reducing the effect of global warming. While a brilliantly weird idea in itself, its economic non-viability prevents sulfur spraying from being implemented. Yet quite contrary to the act-now, care-later individualism that pop culture often preaches, each must live for the other to survive. Economic growth and environmental conservation have to become synonymous, and fast. While I am not Malthusian in my pessimism, with seven billion people inhabiting a planet already teeming with other forms of life, there has to be a tipping point -- a point that, for the lost birds of Delhi, for the potential victims of typhoons and earthquakes and floods, for the already dangerously overextended human race, we need to find a way to prevent. With its emphasis on conscientious environmentalism and effective resource management, the environmental science and sustainability major that I will pursue is the beginning of that answer.

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Home  /  News  /  What Is Environmental Science? 5 Reasons Why To Study It

What Is Environmental Science? 5 Reasons Why To Study It

Do you want to solve environmental problems or help build a more sustainable future? If so, a career in one of many environmental sustainability studies might be the perfect path for you, but first, what is environmental science? 

Even if you are not entirely set on a major yet, keep reading to learn more about how environmental sciences are being developed and applied to practices across industries to conserve resources, reduce carbon emissions, and foster a healthier planet. We start with the definition of environmental science and then explain why it’s such a valuable field of study. 

What Is Environmental Science?

Why is environmental science important, why study environmental science.

What is environmental science about? Explore our  bachelor’s degree in environmental science  to find out. 

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field of study encompassing aspects of physics, chemistry, biology, geography, and other disciplines. It aims to understand the environment and how humans impact it. It’s not just a study of the environment but also of possible solutions to environmental issues such as deforestation, global warming, and pollution. 

What Do You Learn In Environmental Science?

Let’s dive deeper into the question of what is the study of environmental science. A degree in environmental science covers topics such as ecology, conservation, and environmental law and policy. When you study environmental science, you will develop skills including but not limited to:

• Evaluating alternative energy sources
• Ecosystem analysis
• Environmental impact assessment
• GIS technology
• Implementing sustainable development principles

Environmental scientists  do a lot of “behind the scenes” work in laboratories and on field sites. It’s not always a glamorous job, but this important work often informs policy decisions, business practices, and public awareness. The importance of environmental science has never been greater as the entire natural world is experiencing the negative effects of  climate change . It is key to finding new solutions and ways to adapt to a changing planet.

Understanding The Interconnectedness Of Ecosystems

Environmental science is the study of relationships within and between ecosystems. It helps us understand the complex interactions that occur in ecosystems and the impacts humans have on them. It’s easy for people in the modern world to forget how interconnected we are with nature, but everything we do has cascading effects on the environment around us. Scientists help us understand these effects and how to minimize them.

Addressing Climate Change And Global Warming

We’re already seeing alarming trends from climate change that are predicted to worsen over the coming years, including rising sea levels, more extreme storms, droughts in some areas, and increased wildfires. Some of these impacts may be reversible, while others can only be mitigated at this point. To do anything impactful, we need professionals who fully understand the extent of the problem and have the skills to create new, innovative solutions. A  B.S. in Environmental Science and Climate Change  can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to combat global warming. 

Promoting Sustainable Resource Management

Environmental science guides sustainable resource management by helping us understand and preserve biodiversity as well as maintain soil and water quality. Scientists encourage companies, governmental agencies, and individuals to consume natural resources in responsible and sustainable ways. Depending on their specialization, environmental scientists may work as consultants for businesses or in parks, fisheries, or forests.

Driving Policy And Environmental Legislation

Environmental science also influences and shapes environmental policies and legislation. Not only has scientific research led to the creation of laws and regulations aimed at protecting the environment, but environmental scientists are often responsible for conducting field site surveys and other tests to ensure compliance with those laws and regulations. If you are particularly interested in legislation and public policy, you may find a  B.S. in Environmental Studies  more suitable than environmental science for your career goals. 

Ready To Learn More About Unity Environmental University?

Learn more about the  differences between environmental studies vs environmental science .

Students who graduate with an environmental science degree have numerous career opportunities. You can work in research, consulting, education, or legislation. No matter which path you choose, studying environmental science can empower you to positively impact the planet. 

Why should I learn about environmental science? Below are the top five reasons:

• A career with a purpose:  When you work in an environmental science job, you get to have a positive impact on the planet every day. You can directly impact environmental policies, conservation efforts, and people’s individual choices.
• Job security:  Many  environmental science jobs are in high demand  and will continue to be over the next decade as you enter the workforce. Qualified professionals will be needed to address the continued effects of climate change. In fact, current employment reports show a widening gap between supply and demand for workers with at least one green skill.
• Good earning potential:  While the average salaries for environmental scientists vary greatly by position, there are many  green jobs that pay well . 
• Social and emotional well-being :  Earning a college degree increases your earning potential and gives you access to new opportunities, but did you know it can also make you a happier and healthier person? People with degrees have a longer lifespan on average and report being happier overall than people without degrees.
• Connection with nature:  Many environmental scientists spend a lot of time outside in nature, and research shows that being in  nature has physical, emotional, and cognitive health benefits  for humans, all of which can help increase your overall quality of life.

Start A Career In Environmental Science At Unity Environmental University

Pursuing a career in environmental science is a smart choice for you as an individual and for the planet as a whole. Because of the multidisciplinary nature of the field, there are many different career paths to choose from. Environmentally-focused degrees cover many areas including agroforestry, sustainable business practices, resource conservation practices, regenerative hospitality and much more.

If you want 100% online degrees, check out Unity’s B.S. in environmental science and climate change .

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Most Effective Ways College Students Can Contribute to Environmental Protection

Introduction

As college students navigate through the academic landscape, it’s crucial to recognize the profound impact they can have on environmental conservation. In an era where climate change is a pressing concern, students can play a vital role in fostering sustainable practices. This article explores the most effective ways college students can contribute to environmental protection.

Delegating Essays Responsibly

Maintaining a commitment to a clean environment is important to you, but the burden of schoolwork can make it challenging to actively contribute. Juggling research papers and essays can quickly become overwhelming. However, meeting assignment deadlines is as crucial as environmental stewardship. Fortunately, if you’re a passionate environmentalist in college, consider utilizing an essay writing service to manage your academic workload. This allows professional writers to handle your assignments, granting you the free time to participate in environmental activities that contribute positively to the causes you care about the most.

Eco-Friendly Transportation

Transportation is a significant contributor to carbon emissions . College students can make a difference by embracing eco-friendly alternatives. Public transport, cycling, and even walking are sustainable options that not only reduce the carbon footprint but also promote a healthier lifestyle.

Reducing Single-Use Plastic

Single-use plastic is a menace to the environment, and college campuses are no exception. Students can actively reduce their reliance on single-use plastics by opting for reusable alternatives. From water bottles to food containers, making conscious choices can collectively lead to a significant reduction in plastic waste.

Digitalization and Paper Recycling

The digital age offers ample opportunities for students to minimize paper usage. Embracing digital resources for note-taking and assignments not only reduces the demand for paper but also enhances efficiency. Additionally, recycling and reusing paper can further contribute to a more sustainable academic environment.

Only Buy What They Need

Consumerism is a significant driver of environmental degradation. College students can make a positive impact by adopting a minimalist approach to consumption. By buying only what they truly need, students can curb excess waste and contribute to a more sustainable and responsible society.

Embracing Personal Responsibility

Environmental protection starts with individual actions. College students can cultivate a sense of personal responsibility by being mindful of their ecological footprint. Simple practices, such as turning off lights when not needed or properly disposing of waste, can collectively make a substantial difference.

Community Engagement

Beyond individual efforts, students can actively engage with their local communities on environmental initiatives. Joining or supporting local environmental groups provides a platform for collective action and creates a more significant impact on the community and the environment.

Sustainable Campus Practices

Colleges and universities are increasingly adopting sustainable practices. Students can contribute by supporting and participating in these initiatives. From waste reduction programs to energy-efficient practices, a collective effort within the campus can create a more environmentally conscious educational environment.

Raising Green Technology Awareness

Technological advancements offer innovative solutions to environmental challenges. College students can contribute by staying informed about green technologies and advocating for their adoption. From energy-efficient gadgets to sustainable practices, awareness can drive positive change.

Advocacy and Education

Spreading awareness about environmental issues is crucial. College students can become advocates for environmental education by sharing information, organizing workshops, and participating in awareness campaigns. Education is a powerful tool for inspiring collective action.

Green Initiatives in Academia

Academic institutions can set the tone for sustainable practices. Students can support and participate in green initiatives within their campuses. From eco-friendly infrastructure to curriculum enhancements, there are various avenues for students to contribute to a more sustainable academic environment.

The Power of Collective Action

While individual actions matter, the power of collective action is unparalleled. College students can join or initiate environmental clubs and groups to amplify their impact. Through shared goals and concerted efforts, students can address environmental challenges more effectively.

Challenges and Solutions

Acknowledging the challenges students may face in contributing to environmental protection is crucial. Whether it’s a lack of awareness or institutional barriers, this section provides practical solutions to overcome these challenges. Empowering students to navigate obstacles ensures a more widespread commitment to sustainability.

In conclusion, college students possess the potential to be formidable agents of change in environmental protection. By adopting sustainable practices, embracing responsibility, and actively participating in green initiatives, students can collectively contribute to a healthier planet. Every small action counts, and the combined efforts of individuals can create a significant impact on the environment. Additionally, for those who find themselves pressed for time due to academic commitments, considering a reliable college essay writing service can be a practical solution. This allows students to manage their workload efficiently, providing them with more opportunities to engage in environmental activities and make a positive difference.

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48 Best Colleges for Environmental Science – 2024

April 16, 2024

Every environmental science program will include a dose of basic math, science, biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. After all, tackling issues as massive as climate change and preserving our scarce natural resources will require an interdisciplinary effort. What separates the wheat from the chaff (you’ll learn this procedure in an Agronomy class) are the program’s hands-on offerings, study abroad opportunities, and expert faculty. Additionally, the best colleges for environmental science prepare students to be great communicators, writers, and problem-solvers so that they can better influence policy-makers to help make the earth a sustainable place.

Along your way toward earning your undergraduate degree, you may wish to specialize in a particular area such as: Biodiversity and Evolution, Ecology and Conservation, or just pure Environmental Science. You’ll likely encounter coursework in environmental policy, global change, physical geology, genetics and evolution, anatomy, sustainability, vertebrate morphology, ecology, and more.

Methodology 

Click here to read our methodology for the Best Colleges for Environmental Science Majors.

Best Colleges for Environmental Science

Here’s a quick preview of the first ten institutions that made our list. Detailed profiles and stats can be found when you scroll below.

1) Northwestern University

2) Johns Hopkins University

3) Duke University

4) Brown University

5) University of California-Davis

6) University of California-Berkeley

7) Columbia University

8) University of Virginia

9) Dartmouth College

10) Rice University

All of the schools profiled below have stellar reputations in the field of environmental science and commit substantial resources to undergraduate education. For each of the Best Colleges for Environmental Science, College Transitions will provide you with—when available—each school’s:

• Cost of Attendance
• Acceptance Rate
• Median  SAT
• Median  ACT
• Retention Rate
• Graduation Rate

We will also include a longer write-up of each college’s:

• Academic Highlights – Includes facts like student-to-faculty ratio, average class size, number of majors offered, and most popular majors.
• Professional Outcomes – Includes info on the rate of positive outcomes, companies employing alumni, and graduate school acceptances.

Northwestern University

• Evanston, IL

Academic Highlights : Northwestern is home to six undergraduate schools, including Medill, which is widely regarded as one of the country’s best journalism schools. The McCormick School of Engineering also achieves top rankings, along with programs in economics, social policy, and theatre. The social sciences account for the greatest number of degrees conferred (19%), followed by communications/journalism (13%), and engineering (11%). 45% of classes have nine or fewer students enrolled; 78% have fewer than twenty enrollees. 57% of recent grads had the chance to conduct undergraduate research.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduating, 69% of the Class of 2022 had found employment and 27% were in graduate school. The four most popular professional fields were consulting (18%), engineering (18%), business/finance (16%), and communications/marketing/media (13%). Employers included the BBC, NBC News, The Washington Post , NPR, Boeing, Google, IBM, Deloitte, PepsiCo, Northrop Grumman, and Goldman Sachs. Across all majors, the average starting salary was $73k. Of those headed straight to graduate school, engineering, medicine, and business were the three most popular areas of concentration.

• Enrollment: 8,659 (undergraduate); 14,073 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $91,290
• Median SAT: 1530
• Median ACT: 34
• Acceptance Rate: 7%
• Retention Rate: 98%
• Graduation Rate: 97%

Johns Hopkins University

• Baltimore, MD

Academic Highlights: With 53 majors as well as 51 minors, JHU excels in everything from its bread-and-butter medical-related majors to international relations and dance. Boasting an enviable 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio and with 78% of course sections possessing an enrollment under 20, face time with professors is a reality. Many departments carry a high level of clout, including biomedical engineering, chemistry, English, and international studies. Biology, neuroscience, and computer science, which happen to be the three most popular majors, can also be found at the top of the national rankings.

Professional Outcomes: The Class of 2022 saw 94% of graduates successfully land at their next destination within six months of exiting the university; 66% of graduates entered the world of employment and a robust 19% went directly to graduate/professional school. The median starting salary across all majors was $80,000 for the Class of 2022. JHU itself is the most popular choice for graduate school. The next most frequently attended institutions included Columbia, Harvard, Yale, and MIT.

• Enrollment: 6,044
• Cost of Attendance: $86,065
• Median SAT: 1540
• Median ACT: 35
• Retention Rate: 97%
• Graduation Rate: 95%

Duke University

Academic Highlights: The academic offerings at Duke include 53 majors, 52 minors, and 23 interdisciplinary certificates. Class sizes are on the small side—71% are nineteen or fewer, and almost one-quarter are less than ten. A stellar 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio helps keep classes so reasonable even while catering to five figures worth of graduate students. Computer Science is the most popular area of concentration (11%), followed by economics (10%), public policy (9%), biology (8%), and computer engineering (7%).

Professional Outcomes: At graduation, approximately 70% of Duke diploma-earners enter the world of work, 20% continue into graduate schools, and 2% start their own businesses. The industries that attract the largest percentage of Blue Devils are tech (21%), finance (15%), business (15%), healthcare (9%), and science/research (6%). Of the 20% headed into graduate school, a hefty 22% are attending medical school, 18% are in PhD programs, and 12% are entering law school. The med school acceptance rate is 85%, more than twice the national average.

• Enrollment: 6,640
• Cost of Attendance: $85,238
• SAT Range: 1490-1570
• ACT Range: 34-35
• Acceptance Rate: 6%

Brown University

• Providence, RI

Academic Highlights: Students must choose one of 80+ “concentration programs,” but there are no required courses. Class sizes tend to be small—68% have fewer than twenty students—and 35% are comprised of nine or fewer students. Biology, economics, computer science, mathematics, and engineering are among the most popular areas of concentration at Brown; however, it is hard to distinguish any one program, because Brown possesses outstanding offerings across so many disciplines.

Professional Outcomes: Soon after receiving their Brown diplomas, 69% of graduates enter the world of employment. Companies employing the greatest number of Brown alums include Google, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Morgan Stanley, Apple, McKinsey & Company, and Bain & Company. The Class of 2022 saw 27% of graduates go directly into graduate/professional school. Right out of undergrad, Brown students boasted an exceptional 81% admission rate to med school and an 81% admission rate to law school.

• Enrollment: 7,639
• Cost of Attendance: $84,828
• Acceptance Rate: 5%
• Retention Rate: 99%
• Graduation Rate: 96%

University of California, Davis

Academic Highlights: UC Davis offers 100+ undergraduate majors across four schools: the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the College of Biological Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the College of Letters and Science. 50% engage in some type of research/creative project outside the classroom. The areas of study with the largest number of degrees awarded were biology, the social sciences, psychology, and engineering. Programs in engineering, computer science, and animal science are nationally renowned.

Professional Outcomes: Many recent grads found homes at Silicon Valley or other California-based employers. Corporations employing 200 or more Aggies include Genentech, Google, Apple, Cisco, Meta, Oracle, Amazon, Microsoft, Salesforce, and LinkedIn. Ten years out of school, median earnings rise to $112k. Within one year of graduating, 39% of Aggies elect to continue their education; the most popular degrees pursued are master’s, MDs or other health doctorates, law, and MBA/MPA.

• Enrollment: 31,797 (undergraduate); 9,053 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $41,389 (in-state); $73,963 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: Test Blind
• Median ACT: Test Blind
• Acceptance Rate: 42%
• Retention Rate: 93%
• Graduation Rate: 87%

University of California, Berkeley

• Berkeley, CA

Academic Highlights: More than 150 undergraduate majors and minors are available across six schools: the College of Letters and Science, the College of Chemistry, the College of Engineering, the College of Environmental Design, the College of Natural Resources, and the Haas School of Business. Many departments have top international reputations including computer science, engineering, chemistry, English, psychology, and economics. 22% of sections contain nine or fewer students, and over 55% of students assist faculty with a research project or complete a research methods course.

Professional Outcomes: Upon graduating, 49% of Cal’s Class of 2022 had already secured employment, and 20% were headed to graduate school. Business is the most popular sector, attracting 62% of employed grads; next up are industrial (17%), education (8%), and nonprofit work (7%). The median starting salary was $86,459 across all majors. Thousands of alumni can be found in the offices of Google, Apple, and Meta, and 500+ Golden Bears are currently employed by Oracle, Amazon, and Microsoft. The school is the number one all-time producer of Peace Corps volunteers.

• Enrollment: 32,831 (undergraduate); 12,914 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $48,574 (in-state); $82,774 (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Retention Rate: 96%
• Graduation Rate: 94%

Columbia University

• New York, NY

Academic Highlights: Columbia offers 100+ unique areas of undergraduate study as well as a number of pre-professional and accelerated graduate programs.  Class sizes at Columbia are reasonably small and the student-to-faculty ratio is favorable; however, in 2022, it was revealed that the university had been submitting faulty data in this area. It is presently believed that 58% of undergraduate courses enroll 19 or fewer students. The greatest number of degrees are conferred in the social sciences (22%), computer science (15%), engineering (14%), and biology (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Examining the most recent graduates from Columbia College and the Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Science, 73% had found employment within six months, and 20% had entered graduate school. The median starting salary for graduates of Columbia College/Columbia Engineering is above $80,000. Many graduates get hired by the likes of Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Google, Citi, McKinsey, and Microsoft.

• Enrollment: 8,832
• Cost of Attendance: $89,587
• Acceptance Rate: 4%

University of Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA

Academic Highlights: Undergrads can study within one of seven colleges/schools, which all offer many small classes; 15% boast single-digit enrollment and 48% contain 19 or fewer students. The McIntire School of Commerce and the School of Engineering and Applied Science have glowing reputations. Other notable strengths include computer science, economics, and political philosophy, policy, and law. The most popular degree areas are liberal arts/general studies (22%), the social sciences (14%), engineering (11%), business/marketing (8%), and biology (7%).

Professional Outcomes:  Upon receiving their degree, 95% of the Class of 2022 immediately joined the workforce–with an average starting salary of $90k–or headed directly to graduate school. The most popular industries were internet & software, higher education, and management consulting. Capital One (85), Deloitte (46), Amazon (38), and Bain & Co. (26) scooped up the greatest number of 2022 grads. UVA itself was the most popular grad school destination followed by Columbia, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Johns Hopkins.

• Enrollment: 17,496 (undergraduate); 8,653 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $39,494-49,874 (in-state); $78,214-90,378 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1470
• Median ACT: 33
• Acceptance Rate: 19%

Dartmouth College

• Hanover, NH

Academic Highlights: Dartmouth sports 60+ majors and a stunning breadth of course selections for an institution of its size. The learning environment at Dartmouth is extraordinarily intimate. Not only do 61% of course sections have under twenty students, but 18% have single-digit enrollments. The student-to-faculty ratio is an outstanding 7:1. Top programs offered by Big Green include biology, economics, neuroscience, and government. The social sciences are the most popular, accounting for 32% of degrees conferred, followed by computer science (10%), mathematics (9%), engineering (9%), and biology (7%).

Professional Outcomes: A great reputation along with a passionate alumni network that is 80,000 strong leads Dartmouth grads to successful transitions into graduate school and the world of work. Included in the top ten employers of Dartmouth grads are a number of investment banks including Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Bain & Company, Citibank, and Deutsche Bank. Right off the bat, 52% of graduates make more than $70,000 in salary. Those pursuing graduate degrees often flock to the likes of Harvard, Columbia, and Princeton.

• Enrollment: 4,458
• Cost of Attendance: $87,793
• Median SAT: 1550

Rice University

• Houston, TX

Academic Highlights : Rice offers more than 50 majors across six broad disciplines: engineering, architecture, music, social science, humanities, and natural science. Programs in biology, biochemistry, cognitive science, and music are incredibly strong, while the School of Architecture and the George R. Brown School of Engineering are among the highest-ranking schools in their disciplines. One-third of computer science majors are female, almost twice the national average. Class sizes are ideally small with 66% containing fewer than 20 students and a median class size of only fourteen.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduation, 88% of Rice grads have found careers or a graduate school home. Companies that employ many recent grads include Deloitte, Capital One, JP Morgan Chase, Google, and Microsoft. Over one hundred alumni are also current employees of companies such as Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Amazon, Accenture, and Meta. Across all majors, the average starting salary is $73k. One-third of graduates move directly into graduate or professional school, with Harvard, Yale, Stanford, MIT, Columbia, and Berkeley being the most popular destinations.

• Enrollment: 4,494 (undergraduate); 4,178 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $78,278
• Median SAT: 35
• Acceptance Rate: 9%
• Retention Rate: 94%
• Graduation Rate: 98%

Middlebury College

• Middlebury, VT

Academic Highlights: Midd offers 50 departments and programs in which to major and minor. The school’s 9:1 student-faculty ratio allows 100% of courses to be taught by professors, not graduate assistants. Most classes are small; the mean class size is 16, and 14% of sections contain fewer than ten students. Middlebury is renowned for its Language Department as well as its programs in economics and international studies. The college has a robust international program (75 programs in 40 countries); over 50% of juniors take a semester abroad.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduating, 81% of the Class of 2022 had landed jobs and 12% were in graduate school. The most commonly held jobs fell under the categories of financial services (19%), consulting (14%), science and healthcare (14%), and media and technology (12%). Many Middlebury grads now enter tech-related fields; Google and Facebook are two of the leading employers alongside Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, Amazon, and JP Morgan. More than 100 alumni work in the US State Department.

• Enrollment: 2,773 (undergraduate); 70 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,850
• Median SAT: 1460
• Acceptance Rate: 13%
• Retention Rate: 95%

University of Chicago

• Chicago, IL

Academic Highlights: There are 53 majors at UChicago, but close to half of all degrees conferred are in four majors: economics, biology, mathematics, and political science, all of which have particularly sterling reputations. Economics alone is the selection of roughly one-fifth of the undergraduate population. Over 75% of undergrad sections have an enrollment of nineteen or fewer students, and undergraduate research opportunities are ubiquitous as 80% of students end up working in a research capacity alongside a faculty member.

Professional Outcomes: On commencement day, 99% of the Class of 2023 were employed or continuing their education. Business and financial services (30%) and STEM (12%) were the two sectors that scooped up the most graduates, but public policy and consulting were also well-represented. The most popular employers of recent grads include Google, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey & Company, Bank of America, Citi, and Accenture. For those heading to grad school, the top seven destinations are Yale, Columbia, Penn, MIT, Stanford, UCLA, and Johns Hopkins.

• Enrollment: 7,653 (undergraduate); 10,870 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,040

Colorado College

• Colorado Springs, CO

Academic Highlights: Rather than the typical semester schedule, Colorado College operates on the “block plan,” a series of eight three-and-half-week periods during which students take only one course. You won’t find a more intimate liberal arts college than CC. Classes have a cap of 25 students, and no more than a handful of courses exceed that figure. The average class consists of 16 students. In terms of sheer volume, most degrees are conferred in the social sciences (28%), biology (17%), natural resources and conservation (8%), and physical science (6%).

Professional Outcomes: Among the Class of 2022, an impressive 99% arrived successfully at their next destination within six months of earning their diploma. The largest number of graduates who pursue employment end up in the fields of education, technology, health care, the arts, and government.  The bachelor’s degree earned at Colorado College is unlikely to be the last degree a graduate will earn. Five years after graduation, the typical cohort sees 70-90% of its members having either completed or finishing an advanced degree.

• Enrollment: 2,180
• Cost of Attendance: $87,128
• Median SAT: 1380
• Median ACT: 32
• Acceptance Rate: 16%
• Retention Rate: 91%
• Graduation Rate: 86%

Pomona College

• Claremont, CA

Academic Highlights: There are 48 majors and minors to select from with the most popular being social sciences (23%), biology (13%), and computer science (12%). Majors in economics, international relations, chemistry, and mathematics receive especially high marks. More than 600 courses are on the menu at Pomona alone, but students can access any of the Claremont Consortium’s 2,700 courses. Pomona’s 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio leads to an average class size of only 15 students, and over 50% of the undergraduate population conduct research alongside a faculty member.

Professional Outcomes: 71% of the Class of 2022 were employed within six months of graduating. Overall, the largest number of alumni can be found at Google, Kaiser Permanente, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta. Recently, economics degree-earners have landed jobs at Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo, Morgan Stanley, or Accenture. Majors in the hard sciences frequently landed at top research laboratories and hospitals. Of the 21% of 2022 grads who were accepted directly into graduate school, the most frequently attended institutions included the University of Cambridge, Duke, Harvard, Caltech, UChicago, and Stanford.

• Enrollment: 1,761
• Cost of Attendance: $88,296
• Median SAT: 1520
• Graduation Rate: 93%

University of Notre Dame

• Notre Dame, IN

Academic Highlights: 75 majors are offered across six undergraduate colleges: the School of Architecture, the College of Arts and Letters, the Mendoza School of Business (one of the country’s best business schools), the College of Engineering, the Keough School of Global Affairs, and the College of Science. In 2022, the most degrees were conferred in business (20%), the social sciences (18%), engineering (12%), and biology (8%). A solid 60% of courses enroll fewer than 20 students, and 15% have single-digit numbers. 75% of Notre Dame undergrads study abroad.

Professional Outcomes: 69% of 2022 grads directly entered the world of employment, with the most common industries being financial services (21%), consulting (17%), technology (12%), and health services (9%). Massive numbers of alumni can be found at Deloitte, EY, PwC, IBM, Accenture, Booz Allen Hamilton, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and McKinsey & Co. The median early-career salary was $76,000. Of the 20% of grads who went directly into their graduate/professional studies, 18% were pursuing medical degrees and 9% were studying law.

• Enrollment: 8,971 (undergraduate); 4,134 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $86,125
• Median SAT: 1500

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

• Syracuse, NY

Academic Highlights:  There are 27 majors at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and a terrific 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. An excellent 64% of class sections are fairly small, enrolling 19 or fewer students. The most frequently earned degrees are in conservation biology (12%), environmental biology (10%), natural resources management (10%), environmental health engineering (9%), and wildlife biology (9%).

Professional Outcomes: Looking at the Class of 2022, ESF had an admiral 92% career placement rate. 70% of that cohort are employed full time and 18% elected to start an advanced degree program. Top employers included WestRock, Arcadis, Environmental Design & Research, GHD, NYS Office of Parks, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, and Parsons Corporation. Top graduate programs include GWU, PSU, Syracuse, UNC-Chapel Hill, and UIUC.

• Enrollment: 1,621
• Cost of Attendance: $29,276 (In-State); $41,306 (Out-of-State)
• Median SAT: N/A
• Median ACT: N/A
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• Retention Rate: 86%
• Graduation Rate: 80%

University of California, Los Angeles

• Los Angeles, CA

Academic Highlights: UCLA offers 125 majors in 100+ academic departments, and more than 60 majors require a capstone experience that results in the creation of a tangible product under the mentorship of faculty members. The most commonly conferred degrees are in the social sciences (25%), biology (16%), psychology (11%), mathematics (8%), and engineering (7%). Departmental rankings are high across the board, especially in computer science, engineering, film, fine and performing arts, mathematics, and political science.

Professional Outcomes: UCLA grads flow most heavily into the research, finance, computer science, and engineering sectors. High numbers of recent grads can be found at Disney, Google, EY, Teach for America, Amazon, and Oracle. Hundreds also can be found at Bloomberg, Deloitte, Mattel, Oracle, and SpaceX. The average starting salary exceeds $55,000. 16% of recent grads enrolled directly in a graduate/professional school, with other CA-based institutions like Stanford, Pepperdine, USC, Berkeley, and Loyola Marymount being the most popular.

• Enrollment: 33,040 (undergraduate); 15,010 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $38,517 (in-state); $71,091 (out-of-state)

University of Washington – Seattle

• Seattle, WA

Academic Highlights: 180+ undergraduate majors are offered across thirteen colleges/schools. Personal connections with professors abound as 55% of grads complete a faculty-mentored research project. The College of Engineering, which includes the College of Computer Science & Engineering, is one of the best in the nation; UW also boasts strong programs in everything from business to social work to environmental science. The most popular degrees are the social sciences (13%), biology (12%), computer science (11%), and business (8%).

Professional Outcomes: Within months of graduation, 73% of Class of 2022 grads were employed and 17% were continuing their education. The most popular employers of the Class of 2022 included Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and KPMG. Across all living alumni, 6,000+ work for Microsoft, and 4000+ work for each of Boeing and Amazon. Of those headed to graduate/professional school, just over half remain in state, mostly at UW itself. Large numbers of 2022 grads also headed to Columbia, Johns Hopkins, and USC.

• Enrollment: 36,872 (undergraduate); 16,211 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $34,554 (in-state); $63,906 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1420
• Acceptance Rate: 48%
• Graduation Rate: 84%

University of Wisconsin – Madison

• Madison, WI

Academic Highlights: There are 230+ undergraduate majors offered across eight schools and colleges, including the top-ranked School of Business and College of Engineering as well as the College of Letters and Science, the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and the Schools of Nursing, Education, Pharmacy, and Human Ecology. Undergrads can expect a mix of large and small classes, with 44% of sections enrolling fewer than 20 students. Business (18%), biology (12%), the social sciences (11%), and engineering (10%) are most popular.

Professional Outcomes: In a recent year, 46% of job-seeking grads graduated with an offer.  Top employers included UW-Madison, Epic, Kohl’s, Oracle, Deloitte, and UW Health. Across all graduating years, companies employing 250+ alumni include Google, Target, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, PwC, Accenture, and Meta. 28% of recent grads enrolled directly in graduate/professional school; the majority stayed at UW–Madison while others headed to Columbia, Northwestern, and Carnegie Mellon. The university is the top producer of Peace Corps volunteers.

• Enrollment: 37,230 (undergraduate); 12,656 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $28,916 (in-state); $58,912 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1440
• Median ACT: 30
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• Graduation Rate: 89%

Hamilton College

• Clinton, NY

Academic Highlights: The student-to-faculty ratio is 9:1, and without any pesky graduate students to get in the way, face time with professors is a regular occurrence. In fact, 28% of all classes have nine or fewer students; 72% have nineteen or fewer. Economics, government, and biology are among the strongest and most popular majors; other standout programs include public policy, mathematics, and environmental studies. Thirty percent of students earn social science degrees, with biology (13%), visual and performing arts (9%), physical science (7%), and foreign languages (7%) next in line.

Professional Outcomes: Examining the 491 graduates in Hamilton’s Class of 2022, an enviable 97% wasted no time landing jobs, graduate school acceptances, or fellowships. The most commonly entered industries were finance (17%), education (13%), business (12%), and science/tech (11%). Only 17% of 2022 graduates went directly into an advanced degree program. In one recent year, 33% of Hamilton grads were studying a STEM field, 22% were in the social sciences, 17% pursued a health care degree, and 5% went to law school.

• Enrollment: 2,075
• Cost of Attendance: $82,430
• Median SAT: 1490
• Acceptance Rate: 12%
• Graduation Rate: 92%

Bates College

• Lewiston, ME

Academic Highlights: Thirty-four percent of courses at Bates have a single-digit enrollment, and 63% of classrooms contain nineteen or fewer students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 10:1, and not a single graduate student is present to vacuum up professorial attention. Twenty-eight percent of all degrees earned at Bates are in the social sciences, and psychology (14%), biology (13%), and the physical sciences (7%) are next in popularity. Though strong across many disciplines, Bates boasts exemplary programs in political science, art, philosophy, economics, and psychology.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduation, 99% of the Class of 2022 were either employed, enrolled in graduate school, or otherwise meaningfully engaged in a fellowship or internship. The most frequently entered fields were healthcare (17%), education (16%), finance/banking (14%), and technology (7%). Within ten years of graduation, approximately 13% of Bates graduates are in, or have completed, law school whereas 7% enroll in medical school.

• Enrollment: 1,790
• Cost of Attendance: $81,382
• Median SAT: 1430
• Acceptance Rate: 14%

Bowdoin College

• Brunswick, ME

Academic Highlights: Class sizes are small—64% contain fewer than twenty students—and 21% have fewer than ten students. The student-faculty ratio is 9:1. More than half of Bowdoin undergrads report interacting with a professor outside of regular class time at least once per week. The greatest percentage of degrees are conferred in the social sciences (30%), biology (13%), area/ethnic/gender studies (8%), computer science (7%), and mathematics (7%). Economics and government and legal studies are two of the more popular majors within the social sciences.

Professional Outcomes: An examination of three recent years’ worth of outcomes data reveals that one year after graduation, between 73 and 77% of recent grads have found full-time employment, and 15% have gone directly into graduate school. Of those entering graduate school, 48% were enrolled in master’s programs, 23% in PhD programs, 13% in law school, and 8% in med school. The top twenty graduate schools attended, by volume, in the last five years make an exclusive list including six Ivies along with Duke, MIT, Johns Hopkins, and Stanford.

• Enrollment: 1,915
• Cost of Attendance: $82,600
• Median SAT: 1510

University of Michigan

• Ann Arbor, MI

Academic Highlights: There are 280+ undergraduate degree programs across fourteen schools and colleges, and the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) enrolls the majority of students. The Ross School of Business offers highly rated programs in entrepreneurship, management, accounting, and finance. The College of Engineering is also one of the best in the country. By degrees conferred, engineering (15%), computer science (14%), and the social sciences (11%) are most popular. A solid 56% of classes have fewer than 20 students.

Professional Outcomes: Within three months of graduating, 89% of LSA grads are employed full-time or in graduate school, with healthcare, education, law, banking, research, nonprofit work, and consulting being the most popular sectors. Within three months, 99% of Ross grads are employed with a median salary of $90k. Top employers include Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, EY, Morgan Stanley, PwC, Deloitte, and Amazon.  Within six months, 96% of engineering grads are employed (average salary of $84k) or in grad school. General Motors, Ford, Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Meta employ the greatest number of alumni.

• Enrollment: 32,695 (undergraduate); 18,530 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $35,450 (in-state); $76,294 (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 18%

Wellesley College

• Wellesley, MA

Academic Highlights: There are 50+ departmental and interdisciplinary majors. Thirty-six percent of course sections have single-digit enrollments while 77% have 19 or fewer students. In addition, opportunities for participation in research with faculty members abound. Most programs possess sterling reputations, including chemistry, computer science, neuroscience, and political science, but the Department of Economics shines most brightly, leading many into PhD programs and high-profile careers. Economics, biology, and computer science are the most frequently conferred degrees.

Professional Outcomes : Six months after graduating, 97% of the Class of 2022 had achieved positive outcomes. Of the 76% of grads who were employed, 24% were working in the finance/consulting/business fields, 17% in education, 17% in internet and technology & engineering, and 15% in healthcare/life sciences. Top employers included JPMorgan Chase, Google, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Goldman Sachs. The average starting salary for one recent cohort was a solid $63k. Of the 20% of 2022 grads who directly entered an advanced degree program, common schools attended included Harvard, Columbia, Brown, Stanford, MIT, and Emory.

• Enrollment: 2,447
• Cost of Attendance: $84,240
• Graduation Rate: 90%

Wesleyan University

• Middletown, CT

Academic Highlights: With 45 majors and 32 minors, Wes truly has something for everyone. The academic requirements are relatively minimal, giving undergrads a high degree of intellectual freedom. Under 75% of class sections have fewer than twenty students; students rave about the accessible faculty. Research opportunities with professors are plentiful. Offerings in economics, English, film studies, and neuroscience typically receive the most praise from employers/grad schools; accordingly, the social sciences (24%), psychology (17%), and the visual and performing arts (12%) are the most popular.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduating, 66% of 2022 grads had entered employment, with tech/engineering/sciences, education, and arts/entertainment being the three top sectors. The companies employing the highest numbers of recent Wesleyan grads included Google, Epic, Analysis Group, Boston Medical Center, Booz Allen Hamilton, Accenture, and Apple. Graduate school was the next stop for 18% of new alums; enrolling institutions included MIT, Stanford, Berkeley, Yale, Harvard, Temple, and UMass.

• Enrollment: 3,069 (undergraduate); 184 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,094

Davidson College

• Davidson, NC

Academic Highlights: With its small size, the impressive part of the college is the exceptional quality of its offerings, not the breadth of them, as only 37 majors are available. The student-to-faculty ratio is 9:1, which allows the college to ensure that 62% have fewer than twenty students and 24% have enrollments you can count on two hands. Overall, the average number of students per class is only 18. Top programs at Davidson include psychology, political science, chemistry, and English; biology is also quite popular, accounting for 12% of degrees conferred in 2022.

Professional Outcomes: Looking at the outcomes data for 2022 grads, 70% landed jobs within six months of graduation, 26% were enrolled in a graduate program, and 3% were still seeking employment. Of those who attended grad school, the highest number were in healthcare-related programs (including MDs), law school, and laboratory sciences. Significant numbers of students pursue advanced degrees at other Southern gems including Vanderbilt, Emory, Duke, Wake Forest, and UNC.

• Enrollment: 1,927
• Cost of Attendance: $76,450
• Acceptance Rate: 17%

Scripps College

Academic Highlights: There are 65+ majors available to undergrads, including some that are accessible through membership in the Consortium. A 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio breeds an intimate learning atmosphere where professors are genuinely dedicated to undergraduate education. The top five areas of concentration are the social sciences (18%), biology (14%), natural resources/conservation (8%), psychology (7%), and area, ethnic, and gender studies (6%). Each possesses a very strong reputation.

Professional Outcomes: Scripps women land jobs at some of the world’s leading companies after receiving their diplomas. Top employers include Google, Kaiser Permanente, and Amazon. Many go on to work for universities, including Pomona, Scripps, Stanford, UCLA, and UC San Diego. Recent grads also have entered positions at BlackRock, CBS, Goldman Sachs, Meta, and Pfizer. Over 66% complete a graduate/professional program within five years of receiving their bachelor’s degrees at institutions such as Caltech, Harvard, MIT, Vanderbilt, Oxford, Brown, Northwestern, and Tufts.

• Enrollment: 1,081 (undergraduate); 19 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $87,564
• Acceptance Rate: 30%

Pitzer College

Academic Highlights: Pitzer still manages to offer 40+ majors and 20 minors and, as a bonus, students are free to take more than 2,000 courses across the consortium. The most popular majors at Pitzer are interdisciplinary studies (18%), the social sciences (18%), and psychology (8%). Nearly all programs are top-notch, but majors within the social and behavioral sciences (e.g., psychology and sociology) typically draw the most praise. A 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and no graduate student presence lead to an average class size of 16 students.

Professional Outcomes: Upon receiving their degrees, 59% of 2022 graduates had already found full-time employers, 16% were headed to graduate school, and 9% were entering fellowship, internship, or service programs. Among those employed, the most popular industries were tech/sustainability (25%), finance/business (17%), entertainment/arts (16%), health, medicine, and research (15%), and education (12%). Employers employing more than ten alumni include Google, Kaiser Permanente, the Los Angeles Unified School District, and Accenture.

• Enrollment: 1,212
• Cost of Attendance: $89,792
• Retention Rate: 89%

Northeastern University

Academic Highlights: Northeastern offers 290 majors and 180 combined majors within nine colleges and programs. Experiential learning is had by virtually all graduates, thanks to the school’s illustrious and robust co-op program. The D’Amore-McKim School of Business is a top-ranked school and offers one of the best international business programs anywhere, and both the College of Engineering and College of Computer Science are highly respected as well. Criminal justice, architecture, and nursing are three other majors that rate near the top nationally.

Professional Outcomes: Nine months after leaving Northeastern, 97% of students have landed at their next employment or graduate school destination. Huskies entering the job market are quickly rounded up by the likes of State Street, Fidelity Investments, IBM, and Amazon, all of whom employ 500+ Northeastern alums. Between 200 and 500 employees at Wayfair, Google, Amazon, Oracle, IBM, and Apple have an NU lineage. Starting salaries are above average (55% make more than $60k), in part due to the stellar co-op program.

• Enrollment: 20,980 (undergraduate); 15,826 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $86,821
• Graduation Rate: 91%

Dickinson College

• Carlisle, PA

Academic Highlights: As students immerse themselves in one of 46 areas of concentration, Dickinson supports them with a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio and average class size of fifteen, with 78% of classes being capped at 19 students. By discipline, the greatest number of degrees are conferred in the social sciences (27%), biology (12%), business (10%), psychology (7%), and foreign languages (5%). The college’s foreign language program, which features 13 offerings—including Arabic, Hebrew, and Portuguese—is recognized as one of the top programs in the country.

Professional Outcomes: One year after graduating, 95% of Dickinson grads have found jobs or full-time volunteer work, or have enrolled in graduate school. Companies employing more than 25 Dickinson alumni include Deloitte, IBM, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Merck, EY, PNC, PwC, Google, and Amazon. It’s interesting that more alumni can be found in New York City than in Pennsylvania. Within five years of receiving their diplomas, 55-60% of recent grads have entered or finished graduate school.

• Enrollment: 2,125
• Cost of Attendance: $86,151
• Median SAT: 1355
• Acceptance Rate: 35%

Clark University

• Worcester, MA

Academic Highlights: Class sizes are fairly small with 23% containing fewer than 10 students and the average undergraduate class size is exactly 20 students. An impressive 67% of students participate in undergraduate research at some point in their four years of study. Psychology and geography are two standout departments at Clark, and psychology (14%) is actually the school’s most commonly conferred degree. Overall, 21% of degrees are conferred in the social sciences and many also earn degrees in biology (11%), the visual & performing arts (9%), and business (8%).

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduation, 97% of Cougars have clawed their way into gainful employment or full-time graduate programs. Sixty-three percent enter private industry, 32% enter the nonprofit/education world, and 5% are employed by government entities. Of the 44% of freshly minted alumni who enrolled in graduate school, a good number continued their education at Clark or at nearby universities such as UMass Amherst, Boston College, and Boston University. Other attend Brown University, NYU, Penn, and USC.

• Enrollment: 2,389
• Cost of Attendance: $67,277
• Median SAT: 1340
• Acceptance Rate: 50%
• Retention Rate: 88%
• Graduation Rate: 76%

Willamette University

Academic Highlights: 30 distinct majors are offered at Willamette, and the greatest number of degrees conferred in 2022 were in the social sciences (16%) followed by a fairly even distribution among psychology (9%), biology (9%), natural resources and conservation (8%), and foreign languages (6%). Classes are exceptionally small with 75% of sections enrolling fewer than 20 students, and undergraduate research is taken seriously, with more than 75 undergraduate research grants offered annually. The school is a top producer of Fulbright Scholars.

Professional Outcomes: Currently, two dozen or more alumni work for the likes of Nike, Intel, Kaiser Permanente, Microsoft, Amazon, and Wells Fargo. Graduates of the College of Arts & Sciences enjoy an average mid-career salary of $107k; alumni have gone on to all kinds of interesting careers including analytics for the Houston Astros, IT engineer at Netflix, lead investigator at the National Cancer Institute, and bestselling author of young adult fiction. Portland has the highest concentration of Bearcats followed by Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Denver.

• Enrollment: 1,367 (undergraduate); 548 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $63,756
• Median SAT: 1320
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Retention Rate: 82%

Colgate University

• Hamilton, NY

Academic Highlights: Fifty-six majors are on tap at Colgate, including all of the expected liberal arts concentrations. With a student-faculty ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 16, Colgate undergraduates work intimately with their instructors. The social sciences account for 35% of all degrees conferred and, within that umbrella, economics, political science, and English are among the most popular and most well-regarded majors.

Professional Outcomes: Nine months after graduation, only a small number of Colgate alumni are still looking for work; in 2022, that group represented less than 2% of the graduating class. A substantial 80% had already landed full-time jobs. Employers hiring the most Colgate grads included BOA, Merrill Lynch, JP Morgan, EY, Wayfair, and the NIH. 85-95% of law school applicants are accepted into one of their target institutions. The medical school numbers were even more impressive with 100% of graduating seniors gaining acceptance into at least one med school.

• Enrollment: 3,130
• Cost of Attendance: $83,814

University of Colorado Boulder

• Boulder, CO

Academic Highlights: CU Boulder offers 90 bachelor’s degree programs across seven different schools and colleges; the College of Engineering & Applied Science and the Leeds School of Business both possess excellent national reputations. Business/marketing is the discipline where the greatest number of degrees (15%) were conferred in 2022. Engineering (13%), biology (12%), social sciences (12%), and journalism (10%) are next in popularity. 41% of classes have fewer than 20 students, and only 19% of courses enroll 50 or more students.

Professional Outcomes : Within six months of leaving CU Boulder, 91% of recent grads were working or in graduate school. Those employed earned an estimated median salary of $54k, with the greatest number working at Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, Deloitte, Qualcomm, Northrop Grumman, KPMG, Charles Schwab, and Boeing. More than 100 alumni can also be found at Google, Oracle, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. 20% of new grads immediately jumped into an advanced degree program, and 80% were accepted into their first-choice school.

• Enrollment: 31,103 (undergraduate); 7,110 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $31,744 (in-state); $60,118 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1280
• Median ACT: 29
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Graduation Rate: 75%

Boston University

Academic Highlights: In total, the university offers more than 300 programs of study, 100+ of which are distinct undergraduate degrees spread across ten schools/colleges. Many classes at BU are reasonably small—60% contain fewer than twenty students; only 19% contain more than forty. The student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1. The greatest number of degrees are conferred in social sciences (16%), business/marketing (15%), communications and journalism (15%), biology (11%), engineering (9%), and health professions/related sciences (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduation, 90% of BU grads have found their way into the world of employment or full-time graduate study. Across all graduating years, companies employing more than 350 BU alums include Google, Oracle, Accenture, IBM, and Amazon Web Services. Of the one-quarter of grads who move directly into graduate school, many are welcomed onto the campuses of elite graduate programs. For example, engineering students found new academic homes at MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, and Columbia.

• Enrollment: 18,459
• Cost of Attendance: $86,363

Florida State University

• Tallahassee, FL

Academic Highlights: A wide range of baccalaureate degrees—103 to be precise—are available at FSU. The student-to-faculty is a 17:1, which translates into somewhat larger class sizes. Ten percent of sections contain more than fifty students, and 4% have more than 100. However, that is balanced by the 66% of sections that contain fewer than twenty students. Twenty-three percent of degrees conferred fall under the business umbrella. The social sciences (15%), psychology (8%), biology (8%), and homeland security (6%) are next in popularity.

Professional Outcomes: Eighty-three percent of job-seeking Seminole grads receive at least one offer of employment within three months of graduation. The top five sectors employing 2022 grads are (in order) finance, technology, marketing, health, and engineering. Roughly one-third of 2022 Florida State grads elected to immediately pursue admission into an advanced degree program; 75% of those who apply receive at least one acceptance. A typical graduating class sees over 100 students accepted into medical schools and over 200 accepted into law schools.

• Enrollment: 32,936
• Cost of Attendance: $25,762 (In-State); $39,692 (Out-of-State)
• Median SAT: 1300
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• Graduation Rate: 85%

Barnard College

Academic Highlights: Barnard has a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, and a sensational 71% of courses are capped at nineteen or fewer students; 18% have fewer than ten. Many get the chance to engage in research alongside a professor as 240+ undergraduates are granted such an opportunity through the Summer Research Institute each year. Barnard’s most popular majors, by number of degrees conferred, include economics, English, political science, history, psychology, neuroscience, computer science, and art history.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduation, 91% of 2022 Barnard grads had found employment or were enrolled in a graduate program. JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Blackrock, Citibank, and Morgan Stanley all appear on the list of the top fifteen employers of Barnard alumni. Within ten years of graduation, over 80% of Barnard alums eventually enroll in graduate school. Those entering graduate school flock in large numbers to Columbia, with 112 heading there over the last three years.

• Enrollment: 3,442
• Cost of Attendance: $90,928

University of Southern California

Academic Highlights : There are 140 undergraduate majors and minors within the Dornsife College of Arts & Sciences alone, the university’s oldest and largest school. The Marshall School of Business, Viterbi School of Engineering, and programs in communication, the cinematic arts, and the performing arts are highly acclaimed. Popular areas of study are business (22%), social sciences (11%), visual and performing arts (11%), communications/journalism (9%), and engineering (8%). Most courses enroll 10-19 students, and USC does an excellent job facilitating undergraduate research opportunities.

Professional Outcomes: 96% of undergrads experience positive postgraduation outcomes within six months of earning their degree. The top five industries entered were finance, consulting, advertising, software development, and engineering; the median salary across all majors is an astounding $79k. Presently, between 300 and 1,500 alumni are employed at each of Google, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, KPMG, Goldman Sachs, and Meta. Graduate/professional schools enrolling the greatest number of 2022 USC grads include NYU, Georgetown, Harvard, Stanford, Pepperdine, and UCLA.

• Enrollment: 20,699 (undergraduate); 28,246 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $90,921

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Chapel Hill, NC

Academic Highlights: Undergraduates can choose from 74 bachelor’s degree programs in a number of schools and colleges, the largest of which is the College of Arts & Sciences. 44% of classes have a student enrollment under 20. The social sciences (15%), biology (12%), media/journalism (9%), computer science (8%), and business (6%) are the areas in which the most degrees are conferred. The Kenan-Flager Business School is internationally renowned and requires separate admission. Other strong programs include those in chemistry, journalism, psychology, and political science.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after leaving Chapel Hill, 97% of 2022 grads had entered employment, military service, or graduate school. Among the for-profit companies that hire the most graduates are Wells Fargo, IBM, Cisco, Deloitte, EY, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, McKinsey & Company, and Goldman Sachs. In the nonprofit sector, a large number of alumni are employed by AmeriCorps, NIH, Teach for America, and the Peace Corps. The average starting salary is $70,619. 18% of 2022 grads enrolled directly in graduate/professional school.

• Enrollment: 20,210 (undergraduate); 11,739 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $27,036 (in-state); $60,040 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1450

University of California, Santa Cruz

• Santa Cruz, CA

Academic Highlights: 73 undergraduate majors are available at UCSC within the following academic divisions: arts, humanities, physical and biological sciences, social sciences, and the Jack Baskin School of Engineering. 75% of undergraduates conduct research during their four years. Biology is the university’s most popular major; 15% of all degrees conferred in 2022 were in this discipline. 14% of degrees were granted in the social sciences, 13% in computer and information sciences, and 12% in psychology. CS is one of UCSC’s most respected programs.

Professional Outcomes: Within three months of earning their degree, 29% of UCSC grads had found employment and 17% started graduate programs. Proximity to Silicon Valley helps open doors to companies like Google, Apple, Meta, Genentech, and Cisco, which all employ over 250 alumni. More than 100 alums can also be found in the offices of Amazon, Salesforce, Microsoft, Adobe, and LinkedIn. Among graduates from the last five years, over half make more than $40k.

• Enrollment: 17,502 (undergraduate); 1,976 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $41,283 (in-state); $73,857 (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 63%
• Graduation Rate: 77%

University of Minnesota–Twin Cities

• Minneapolis, MN

Academic Highlights: There are 150 majors available across eight freshman-admitting undergraduate colleges. 65% of class sections enroll 29 or fewer students. The most commonly conferred degrees are in biology (13%), business & marketing (11%), engineering (10%), the social sciences (10%), computer science (9%), and psychology (8%). The College of Science and Engineering and the Carlson School of Management have strong national reputations, and the chemistry, economics, psychology, and political science departments are also well-regarded.

Professional Outcomes: The top seven companies snatching up the largest number of recent grads are all companies headquartered in the state of Minnesota: Medtronic, Target, 3M, United Health Group, US Bank, and Cargill. Google, Apple, and Meta all employ hundreds of Twin Cities alumni. The mean starting salary for recent grads was $50k. With 130 graduate programs in science, art, engineering, agriculture, medicine, and the humanities, the University of Minnesota retains many of its graduates as they pursue their next degrees.

• Enrollment: 39,248 (undergraduate); 15,707 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $33,032-$35,632 (in-state); $54,446-$57,046
• Median SAT: 1370
• Acceptance Rate: 75%
• Retention Rate: 90%

University of Vermont

• Burlington, VT

Academic Highlights: With over 100 majors and 100 advanced degree programs, the University of Vermont has offerings in just about any major you can name. They sport a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1 and 41% of sections enroll no more than 19 students. The most popular majors are fairly evenly spread around with biology (12%), natural resources and conservation (10%), business (9%), and nursing (9%)  all attracting similar numbers of undergraduates.

Professional Outcomes:  Over the last three years, graduates have enjoyed a 94% success rate. Alumni earned an average starting salary of $49,909 during that span of time. Roughly 90% of grads stated that their current job was related to their career goals. Top employers included Mass General Hospital, Beta Technologies, and GlobalFoundries. Looking at the Class of 2022 who enrolled in advanced degree programs, common universities included Northeastern, BU, Simmons, NYU, and Cornell.

• Enrollment: 11,898
• Cost of Attendance: $32,834 (In-State); $59,278 (Out-of-State)
• Median SAT: 1350
• Acceptance Rate: 60%

Oregon State University

• Corvallis, Oregon

Academic Highlights: Across its 11 colleges, graduate schools, and Honors College, OSU offers close to 200 degree programs. While 28% of classes have fewer than 20 students another 21% of sections enroll more than 50 individuals. The three most commonly earned degrees are in engineering (17%) computer science (15%), and business (15%). Other popular areas of study are biology (7%), natural resources and conservation (6%), and the social sciences (5%).

Professional Outcomes:  Large number of College of Business alums work at companies such as Nike, Boeing, Intel, Deloitte, Oracle, KPMG, and Adidas.  Including all majors, many others work for Amazon, Salesforce, Meta, Apple, Google, and NVIDIA. An impressive 67% of those applying to medical school are accepted, a figure far higher than the national average. Med schools where recent grads now attend include Harvard, Yale, the University of Chicago, and UCLA.

• Enrollment: 28,905
• Cost of Attendance: $28,866 (In-State); $51,642 (Out-of-State)
• Median SAT: 1260
• Median ACT: 26
• Acceptance Rate: 83%
• Retention Rate: 87%
• Graduation Rate: 70%

Hobart & William Smith Colleges

Academic Highlights: The offerings at Hobart & William Smith are wide with 45 majors and 68 minors. The average class size is just 16 students, and 100% of courses are taught by full-time faculty; the student-to-faculty ratio is an excellent 9:1. The social sciences account for the greatest number of degrees conferred each year, typically more than 25%. The next most popular areas of concentration are in biology, psychology, journalism, and the physical sciences.

Professional Outcomes: In a typical year, approximately two-thirds of HWS grads immediately enter the world of full-time employment while 15% jump right into pursuing a graduate or professional degree. Companies employing the greatest number of grads include Morgan Stanley, Fidelity Investments, Merrill Lynch, JP Morgan, Google, UBS, JPMorgan Chase, and Citi. On the graduate and professional school front, HWS alumni fare quite well, including at many of the top programs in the country.

• Enrollment: 1,559
• Cost of Attendance: $80,000
• Median ACT: 31
• Acceptance Rate: 68%
• Graduation Rate: 74%

Juniata College

• Huntingdon, PA

Academic Highlights: A stunning 95% of graduates report engaging in some form of hands-on learning in their time at the college. The 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio may lag slightly behind some other small liberal arts schools featured in this guide, but professors are deployed with enhancing the undergraduate experience in mind. Biology is easily the most common major as it accounted for 22% of degrees conferred in 2022; next in line were natural resources and conservation (12%), education (12%), and the physical sciences (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Ninety-six percent of Juniata students are employed or attending graduate school six months after diplomas are awarded. More than ten alumni work for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Merck, Geisinger, WellSpan Health, and the US Army. Recent graduate acceptances include Columbia, Wake Forest, Johns Hopkins, and MIT. With a 90% acceptance rate for premed and other graduate programs in the health professions, Juniata is a choice institution for future doctors, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, and other health professionals.

• Enrollment: 1,177
• Cost of Attendance: $69,948
• Median SAT: 1230
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• Retention Rate: 81%
• Graduation Rate: 71%

University of North Carolina Wilmington

• Wilmington, NC

Academic Highlights: Nearly 90 undergraduate programs are available across five different colleges: the Cameron School of Business, the College of Health and Human Services, the College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts, the College of Science and Engineering, and the Watson College of Education. Nursing is the most popular major, accounting for 20% of degrees conferred, followed by business (18%), speech communication and rhetoric (6%), and psychology (6%). The average class size is 22, and 40% of classes enroll under 20 students.

Professional Outcomes: Nursing grads—UNCW’s most popular major—make an average starting salary of $67k. Business majors—the second-most popular discipline—have a post-grad employment rate of 45%. 15% of newly minted business alums immediately pursue a graduate or professional program. During their undergrad years, 58% of business students ultimately complete an internship, and they enjoy an average starting salary of $55k.

• Enrollment: 14,294 (undergraduate); 3,549 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $27,030 (in-state); $42,603 (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 69%
• Retention Rate: 83%

University of North Carolina Asheville

• Asheville, NC

Academic Highlights: Of the 30+ bachelor’s degree programs, a standout Art & Art History Department attracts scores of talented young painters, sculptors, and photographers. As such, it conferred the greatest percentage of degrees in 2022 (16%), followed by psychology (14%), the social sciences (10%), and business (9%). Engineering and computer science degrees accounted for a combined 19%. 97% of courses enroll 29 or fewer students (the average class size is just 14), and 65% of students complete original research in their field of study.

Professional Outcomes: Asheville rates well when it comes to generating a high degree of social mobility. Employers snagging the greatest number of Bulldog alumni include Mission Health, Wells Fargo, Lowe’s, Bank of America, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and a number of local school districts. A fair number of grads also find employment at Duke Energy Company, the US Environmental Protection Agency, Apple, EY, PwC, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Many alumni pursue graduate schools at other public universities within North Carolina.

• Enrollment: 2,907 (undergraduate); 18 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $24,856 (in-state); $43,304 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1240
• Acceptance Rate: 94%
• Retention Rate: 73%
• Graduation Rate: 56%

St. Mary’s College of Maryland

• St. Mary's City, MD

Academic Highlights: St. Mary’s College of Maryland offers 25 majors and 31 minors. 96% of course sections enroll fewer than 29 students, and 72% of classes enroll fewer than 20. The college is known for its strong STEM programs; roughly 30% of all degrees conferred are in a STEM field. The social sciences accounted for 23% of the degrees earned in 2022 followed by psychology (17%), biology (13%), natural resources and conservation (8%), and the visual and performing arts (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of earning their bachelor’s degrees, 96% of St. Mary’s grads have landed a job or started an advanced degree. Healthcare, wellness, publishing, government, and media are the most popular industries. Top employers of Osprey alumni include JPMorgan Chase & Co., the Centers for Disease Control, BNY Mellon, Booz Allen Hamilton, the Smithsonian, and the US Department of Defense. Over 25% of alumni begin work on their next degree within six months of graduation, earning acceptances from the likes of Harvard, Yale, Rice, Penn, and the University of Chicago.

• Enrollment: 1,513 (undergraduate); 23 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $33,611 (in-state); $50,282 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1250
• Acceptance Rate: 77%

We hope you have found our list of the Best Colleges for Environmental Science to be useful and informative as you continue your college search process. We also invite you to check out some of our other resources and tools including:

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10 Best Colleges for Environmental Science Majors

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Environmental science is a growing area of study, and hundreds of colleges and universities have bachelor's degree programs in the field. Because of the subject's interdisciplinary nature, colleges may offer the major under different names or with specific areas of specialization. Environmental studies, environmental biology, environmental chemistry, environmental engineering, ecology, sustainability studies, and conservation biology are some of the many options. It's also possible that environmental science courses are housed entirely within a college's biology or geology department.

Regardless of the disciplinary structure of a college, the best schools for environmental science share many characteristics. All will have strong programs in natural sciences such as chemistry and biology. All will have excellent lab facilities on campus. All have readily available opportunities for students to conduct independent research and fieldwork both during the semester and over breaks. In addition, all strong environmental studies programs will have faculty members who truly specialize in the subject. This latter point is significant, for although many schools offer environmental programs to meet student demand, not all of them devote significant resources to the programs. Look for schools that are investing in creating strong environmental programs with dedicated faculty experts, rather than a patchwork of existing courses in other disciplines.

All of the colleges and universities below (listed in alphabetical order) offer highly regarded environmental science programs. While there are many other excellent programs available, the schools on this list are a good place to start your search thanks to their excellent campus resources, dedicated faculty members, and impressive placement of graduates into jobs or graduate schools.

Colorado College

Jeffrey Beall / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado College 's location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains combined with its proximity to the deserts, forests, and canyons of the Southwest, make it an ideal place for conducting fieldwork. Students can choose from majors in Environmental Science or the more interdisciplinary field of Environmental Studies. The college also offers an Environmental Chemistry track, a minor in Environmental Issues, and popular biology programs including Organismal Biology and Ecology.

Because the Environmental Studies program has an entirely undergraduate focus, students will find it easy to work side-by-side with faculty members and gain access to the laboratory resources in the Tutt Science Building.

Cornell University

Cornell University 's 2,300-acre campus in Ithaca, New York, overlooks Lake Cayuga in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. The university has some of the world's best programs related to the environment, natural resources, and sustainability. At the undergraduate level, the Environment and Sustainability major is offered through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

A member of the Ivy League , Cornell is a research powerhouse. Students can take courses or conduct independent research that takes advantage of university facilities including the Arnot Teaching and Research Forest, Little Moose Field Station in the Adirondacks, Cornell Biological Field Station on Oneida Lake, Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in New Hampshire, and the numerous forest, field, and water resources on and near campus. The university offers 10-week undergraduate research internships at some of these facilities in the summer.

Duke University

Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University is part of the Research Triangle with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University . The university is the most prestigious and selective research university in the Southeast, and its Nicholas School of the Environment has a strong international reputation. The school offers three undergraduate majors: Earth & Ocean Sciences, Environmental Sciences & Policy, and Marine Science & Conservation. The school also offers certificates (much like a minor) in Marine Science & Conservation Leadership, Energy & Environment, and Sustainability Engagement.

Unique opportunities at Duke include the ability to live and study at the Duke Marine Lab on Pivers Island in North Carolina's Outer Banks. The facility has state-of-the-art labs for studying marine organisms as well as three research vessels available for charter. Duke also owns the 7,000-acre Duke Forest where students can study the stewardship of natural resources. On the co-curricular side of a Duke education, students can choose from a broad range of clubs, societies, and organizations including the Duke Society of American Foresters, Duke Sustainability Board, Duke Conservation Society, and Sustainable Oceans Alliance.

Harvard University

rabbit75_ist / iStock / Getty Images 

Students interested in environmental issues have multiple options at Harvard University . In 2018, the school launched its Environmental Science and Engineering concentration (the equivalent of a major) offered through the Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Through this STEM-heavy program, students examine issues including global warming, air and water pollution, and ozone depletion. Students gain a broad foundation in physics, chemistry, oceanography, hydrology, ecology, and other disciplines to gain a broad multi-disciplinary perspective from which to tackle environmental challenges.

For students who are interested in the social and political side of environmental issues, Harvard offers a concentration in Environmental Science and Public Policy. Students will still take a range of science courses, but they will also study some of the political, economic, historical, and ethical issues interwoven with our efforts to solve environmental challenges.

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard is a member of the Ivy League, and it often ranks as the most selective university in the nation with an acceptance rate of around 5%.

Stanford University

The Stanford School of Earth, Energy, & Environmental Sciences—simply called Stanford Earth—is home to the departments of Geophysics, Geological Sciences, Energy Resources Engineering, and Earth System Science. Undergraduates have the opportunity to do field research on all seven continents, and the university has many opportunities for students to conduct research with faculty members throughout the year. The school emphasizes skills in the data sciences, and students can take courses including earth imaging, global positioning systems, remote sensing, data for sustainable development, and data for geoscience.

With an endowment nearing $30 billion, Stanford has the resources to support a wealth of undergraduate research. The Undergraduate Advising and Research (UAR) program offers grants ranging from $1,500 to $7,000 to support independent research projects. The Beagle II Award offers up to $12,000 to support student research that depends on travel, and SESUR, the Stanford Earth Summer Undergraduate Research Program, provides students with the opportunity to work with faculty members in the summer on projects related to the environment.

Located in California's Bay Area, Stanford University is similar to Harvard for selectivity. Only about 5% of applicants are admitted.

University of California, Berkeley

Geri Lavrov / Stockbyte / Getty Images

The University of California, Berkeley is home to the Rausser College of Natural Resources where undergraduate can choose from five majors within the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management: Conservation and Resource Studies, Environmental Sciences, Forestry and Natural Resources, Molecular Environmental Biology, and Society and Environment. All Environmental Studies majors conclude their degree with a your-long senior research project.

Opportunities for engagement outside of the classroom include the Cal Energy Corps, an undergraduate internship program focused on sustainable energy and climate solutions. Students work for 12 weeks in the summer with a partner organization. Berkeley's facilities also include the Richard B. Gump South Pacific Research Station on Moorea Island in French Polynesia where students can conduct field research and training.

UC Berkeley is one of the nation's top public universities , and it is also one of the most selective, with an acceptance rate of around 15%.

University of California, Davis

The University of California, Davis has impressive depth in fields related to the environment. The university's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers majors in Environmental Science and Management, Environmental Toxicology, Environmental Horticulture and Urban Forestry, Hydrology, Marine and Coastal Science, Sustainable Environmental Design, and others. The College of Engineering offers a degree in Environmental Engineering.

Students majoring in Environmental Science and Management study the environment from physical, biological, and social perspectives. Within the major, students can choose from six tracks: Climate Change & Air Quality; Ecology, Biodiversity, & Conservation; Geospatial Information Science; Natural Resource Management; Soils & Biogeochemistry; and Watershed Science. All majors gain hands-on experience through an internship, and the program also has many study abroad opportunities.

University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Michael Hicks / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

The Universiity of Minnesota—Twin Cities is home to several programs related to the study of the environment. Through the College of Liberal Arts, students can earn a BA in Biology, Society, and Environment, a BS in Environmental Geosciences, and a BA or BS in Earth Sciences. The College of Science and Engineering offers a bachelor's in Environmental Engineering, and the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences has three bachelor of science options: Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management; Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology; and Forest and Natural Resource Management.

Within the Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management (ESPM) major, students can choose one of four tracks to match their interests and career goals: Conservation and Resource Management, Environmental Education and Communication, Environmental Science, and Policy, Planning, Law and Society.

Related student groups include the ESPM Student Association, Voices for Environmental Justice, Outdoor Club, and Energy and Environmental Policy Club. Students can also get involved in research through the university's many centers including the Institute on the Environment, Water Resources Center, and centers for the study invasive plants and aquatic species. Research centers are located throughout Minnesota.

University of Washington

 Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

Located in Seattle, the University of Washington's College of the Environment offers a wealth of options for undergraduate and research focused on the environment. The university has three research vessels and numerous smaller boats for exploring the local coastline, Puget Sound, and the Pacific Ocean. The school's Friday Harbor Laboratories give students access to the San Juan Islands and the outer coast. Other centers and programs include the Alaska Salmon Program in Bristol Bay, UW Botanic Gardens with over 10,000 specimens, and the Olympic Natural Resources Center that brings together the study of forestry and marine sciences.

University of Washington undergraduates can choose from eight majors offered by the College of the Environment: Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, Atmospheric Sciences, Bioresources and Engineering, Earth and Space Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Terrestrial Resource Management, Environmental Studies, Oceanography, and Marine Biology. The college also offers nine minors and 16 graduate degrees. In all, the college has about 1,500 students and 1,000 faculty and staff members conducting research on all of the world's continents and oceans.

Yale University

Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs through its School for the Environment. At the undergraduate level, the Environmental Studies major brings together perspectives from the sciences, social sciences, and humanities to give students the broad tools they need to solve the world's complex environmental issues. Both BA and BS programs are offered. All undergraduates also have the option of a five-year program that culminates in a master's degree in either Environmental Management or Environmental Science.

With an endowment of over $30 billion, Yale has the resources to be a leader in research. The school is home to numerous centers and programs including the Carbon Containment Lab, Center for Green Chemistry & Green Engineering, Tropical Resource Institute, and the SEARCH Center (Solutions for Energy Air, Climate, and Health).

EcoLeague Colleges

Courtesy of Northland College

Lists such as this one nearly always favor larger, highly selective, nationally ranked research universities. Such schools, however, are certainly not the best or most realistic choice for many applicants.

For students who are looking for smaller and often more accessible colleges committed to studying and protecting the environment, the EcoLeague is worth careful consideration. The EcoLeague is a consortium of six small liberal arts colleges from across the United States. All member schools share a mission focused on sustainability and the study of ecosystems.

The six EcoLeague schools span the country from Maine to Alaska, and students have exchange opportunities with member schools.

• Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage is home to about 340 undergraduates and a few hundred graduate students. The school offers bachelor's degree offerings include Marine & Environmental Science, Outdoor Studies, and Environmental Public Health.
• College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, is home to 360 students who all study human ecology. Areas of specialization include climate change, environmental law, and marine science. The school has an enviable Mt. Desert Island location right on Frenchman Bay
• Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is the largest of the EcoLeague members with over 2,100 undergraduates. The school offers both a B.S. in environmental science and a B.A. in environmental studies.
• New College of Florida is located in Sarasota, and the campus sits on the edge of a bay on the Gulf of Mexico. Home to about 700 undergraduates, the school is the designated Honors College of Florida's public university system. New College has a marine science research center located on the main campus.
• Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, sits next to Lake Superior and over a million acres of National Forest. Home to about 600 students, the school's majors reflect its location. Options include environmental studies, natural resources, sustainable agriculture, water science, ecological restoration, and wildlife ecology.
• Prescott College in Prescott, Arizona, is home to roughly 500 undergraduates and an equal number of graduate students. The school's location – surrounded by Granite Mountain, Prescott National Forest, and Thumb Butte – makes it a great place for conducting fieldwork, including opportunities at Kino Bay Center for Cultural and Ecological Studies.
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Environmental Science Scholarships

Jump to section.

• Choosing a Scholarship

What Is a Scholarship?

• Funding Sources
• Places to Find Scholarships
• Start Looking for Funding
• Are College Financial Planner Worth It?
• Scholarships
• Environmental Policy & Management Scholarships
• Keep Us in Mind

Choosing a Scholarship in Environmental Science

You have decided to major in Environmental Science, and now you need to pay for it! There are generally very different opportunities for graduate school and undergraduate school funding.

Money you won't need to pay back to cover the costs of your Environmental Science education comes in the form of grants and scholarships. Grants are “gifted” monies, often for low-income students, whereas scholarships may be earned. These can come from local to federal governments, private business or not-for-profit groups, or the school of your choice. Fellowships are similar to scholarships, but are generally very specific, and used for graduate education in science.

Be sure to explore the numerous possibilities for scholarships, and look for ones specific to your own interests, you may have a better chance of obtaining them.

A scholarship is funding used for an activity (such as college) which probably was awarded on merit, rather than need. It should not need to be repaid, as that would instead make it a loan. Qualifying for a scholarship depends largely on the type of scholarship being sought; it may be based on academic achievements, gender, location, physical abilities, religion, and race, among other factors. Finding a scholarship that you are eligible to receive is only a small part of the battle, since it usually requires an application and has a deadline. Other funding sources may be more forgiving of tardiness, but not scholarships.

What Are Other Funding Sources?

Funding for school generally comes from four places; 1) your own pocket (or those of your parents), 2) loans, 3) grants, and 4) scholarships. Of course it would be wonderful to reverse those numbers, with the bulk of the money coming from scholarships and grants, so you don't have to (re)pay for school. These different categories have been covered already; just remember grants and scholarships do not require repayment, while loans do, but the grants and scholarships are generally harder to obtain.

What Are the Typical Places to Find Scholarships?

Local community groups such as churches, chambers of commerce, business organizations, and foundations offer scholarships to students from their home region. Unions may promote scholarships for dependents of its members. Groups that you may have been a member of such as Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts may have funding opportunities. Many government agencies offer scholarships to students in the Environmental Sciences. The college which you select to attend probably has scholarships of its own available, though oftentimes these are reserved for juniors and seniors. Select special interest groups may have specific funding opportunities available to them as well, especially in the sciences.

If nothing else seems to work, you may try to contact the company or law firm you envision yourself working for after graduation and inquire as to whether or not they would help fund your schooling. Business owners can be inspired by motivated, dedicated hard-workers. These categories will be broken down further below.

Where Should I Start to Look for Funding?

If you are still a high school student, you can begin with your guidance counselor. More than likely, they will tell you that your starting point for funding information is with The United States Department of Education (USDOE). Grants are based on your need for funding. You may be surprised by how much you are eligible to receive before even applying for specialty funding. If you do receive additional outside funds (a scholarship or two!) though, keep in mind your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA � ) may have to be amended.

If you are already a college student you have probably done one of these last year. More than likely, there is a financial aid office at your school, with someone that can also help you find and complete it, as well as look for other funding.

You are now onto finding the real thing, Environmental Science Scholarships. These are most likely based on your merit; what have you done to prove you deserve an education in Environmental Science already? It will probably help you to be as specific as possible.

Is It Worth Going to a College Financial Planner?

Financial Planning for college is an interesting field. Depending on the situation of the parents, it may begin as soon as a child is born, by putting as much money as possible into a college fund. For the majority of students, this is not the case. Often you are in your later years of high school and beginning to realize the huge fiscal undertaking you will have when you head to college. You may not even know your planned field of study yet.

Before you decide to meet with a financial planner, find out the following information;

• Do you have friends or acquaintances you can ask for a reference for this person/office?
• Are they selling you specific products?
• Are they going to just fill out your FAFSA or do they know of additional funding sources, whether locally or nationally?
• Do you pay to meet with them or is the initial consultation free?
• Do they locate scholarships and help submit the applications?

Depending on your situation and personality, it may be worth paying someone else to fill out and submit applications. If they are really college savvy and know how to seek additional scholarship monies, they may be just what you need. Be wary of someone just trying to sell specific loan products, as the college funding industry has some of the best rates available, and you will likely already qualify for those products with the completion of your FAFSA, or similar ones through your local bank.

How Do I Know If I Qualify for Environmental Science Scholarships? Be Mindful of Deadlines!

Scholarship applications can be very intimidating. Generally, though, the terms you need to meet are well spelled out. The most common qualifiers include a certain grade point average, intended college major, perhaps a certain PSAT score, home location, school location, etc. If it states you need to meet all requirements, and you don't, stop looking and find the next one. If everything seems applicable, check the deadline! You don't need to waste your time or that of the reviewers by submitting past the deadline, because you won't be qualified to receive it. With so many people seeking funding, late applications are the easiest to discard.

Scholarships for Environmental Science

American Geophysical Union (AGU) is an international non-profit scientific community. Their mission is to advance the understanding of Earth sciences. They have over 62,000 members and are governed by a board. Apply for AGU grants and scholarships to support students and early-career scientists in completing research and advancing their education and careers.

With the mission of cultivating a happier and healthier world by spreading goodness through nourishing foods, honest words and conduct that is considerate and forever kind to the planet, Annie's Homegrown offer Sustainable Agriculture Scholarships to a handful of undergraduate and graduate students each year.

National Garden Clubs provides education and resources to promote the love of gardening and conservation in a well networked environment, one which also promotes civil and environmental responsibility. They offer a number of scholarships to students in their junior or senior year of undergraduate school or pursuing their master's degree in horticulture. Learn more about National Garden Clubs Scholarship Program .

The Environmental Defense Fund 's mission is to preserve the natural systems on which life depends, through sound science and economics. They offer a few fellowships to students , including many Climate Core graduate positions.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is tasked with understanding weather, and changes to the ocean and earth, as well as protecting marine resources. NOAA has opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Scholarship types include:

• Undergraduate scholarships
• Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program
• Sea Grant Scholarships
• EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program

The National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency dedicated to promoting the progress of science while protecting the country. NSF offers wonderful opportunities and scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Program (S-STEM) .

If you intend to major in a geological environmental science, a huge resource is from the Society of Exploration Geophysicists . The SEG Scholarships aim to promote the pursuit of geophysics and related geosciences at universities globally.

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) is tasked with ensuring a prosperous future for the country while utilizing transformative science and technology in meeting our energy needs. Their funding is mostly for graduate students and teachers to enhance scientific education. Find more information about the DOE's scholarships, internships, and fellowships .

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) is involved in both human health and natural aspects of Environmental Science and offers listings for:

• Research Fellowships and Scholarships
• Fellowships, Scholarships and Post-Doctoral Opportunities
• Specific EPA Grant Programs and Other Funding Opportunities
• Environmental Justice Small Grants Program

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE ) list opportunities as well including:

• Undergraduate Scholarships
• STEM Internships and Fellowship
• DOE Scholars Program
• Graduate Internships and Fellowships
• STEM Internships and Fellowships for Recent Graduates
• Postdoctoral Fellowships

The United States Geological Service (USGS) has sites across the country dedicated to studying the Earth, minimizing loss and damage to life by natural disasters, and managing our natural resources. They have a number of resources for scholarships and fellowships across numerous programs.

Scholarships in Environmental Studies, including Policy and Management

Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) is a group dedicated to inspiring and catalyzing higher education to lead the global sustainability movement in an equitable and ecologically healthy manner. Various scholarships are available to students looking to help lead the way in these fields including AASHE Conference and Expo .

Brower Youth Awards is named after an important former leader of the Sierra Club. Six awards are given annually to young environmentalists (ages 13-22) attempting to make a difference in the world through sustainable projects and innovative ideas. The awards help raise awareness of the youth and project locally and beyond. These are not limited to college students but may help with funding, as well as the chances of receiving additional awards. They also offer an annual Earth Island Fellowship aimed at local university students passionate about program management, research, and generating tangible outcomes for a client organization.

The Sierra Club boosts 2.4 million members and supporters as well as 64 chapters. They believe in exploring and preserving the outdoors and have helped pass the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Endangered Species Act. David Brower also founded the Earth Island Institute and Friends of the Earth . Find more information about the 2024 Brower Youth Awards .

Brown and Caldwell is an engineering firm specializing in environmental consulting which offers a variety of scholarships to exceptional science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students .

Ford Motor Company is a well known automobile company which encourages the education of youth. A variety of scholarships are available through Ford , and in conjunction with other agencies.

National Environmental Health Association and the American Academy of Sanitarians Scholarship awards are available through these paired organizations for undergraduate and graduate students in the field of Environmental Health. NEHA/AAS Environmental Health Scholarships are available for eligible undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a career in environmental health.

The National Park Service (NPS) works to preserve history and maintain National Parks for the public. NPS has a compilation of a variety of scholarships and fellowships that may be appropriate to students intending to work for them at a later date. These include:

• Grants for Cultural Resources, Consultation, and Repatriation
• Save America's Treasures Grants
• State, Tribal, Local, Plans & Grants Division
• Apply for and Manage a Grant

The S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a private non-profit organization, comprised of tens of thousands of member organizations, chapters, and student volunteers, that promotes sustainability in the design, construction and operation of buildings. Every year need-based scholarships are available to attend the annual Greenbuild convention . Other opportunities may be available as well.

Unlocking Opportunities: Navigating Funding in Environmental Science and Studies

As the fields of Environmental Science and Studies grow more popular, there will be increasing numbers of students applying for funding, but also, hopefully, increasing numbers of awards. Remember to begin with your FAFSA to determine your aid eligibility, and look from there. If you do use a counselor, it may help lower your costs with them, as well as make you less intimidated by the funding process if you complete that step on your own. Make the most of the financial aid office of your chosen school; they have opportunities they may not offer unless you ask, especially in your junior year and above. Feel free to use this list and check back often for any updates. Good luck!

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Best Environment Essay Examples

Environmental science.

761 words | 3 page(s)

Prior to the publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring on September 27, 1962, the world did not seem to pay close attention to environmental issues, but after the serialization of the book in the New Yorker that summer and Carson’s appearance on ‘CBS Reports’ while clearly dying from the effects of pesticides, the environmental movement was born and gained tremendous momentum during the 1960’s and 1970’s (Griswold, 2012). Most people on the planet firmly believed in what is referred to as the concept of the dominant social paradigm, which is comprised of the values, beliefs, ideas, behaviors, and institutions that affect how the world is perceived, in addition to how it is responded to. Obviously, this kind of paradigm is not something that occurs overnight, but rather happens from a society’s collective experience and acquired knowledge (Milbraith, 2004).

In the case of the environment, the dominant social paradigm (DSP) before the environmental movement was one where the world would always provide enough resources for human consumption with that consumption never having to be modified or altered in any form. The difficulty with a DSP is that it takes just as long for a society or various societies to shed this viewpoint as it becomes so embedded in their way of life, it takes a series of events to dislodge it from their mind. With environmental concerns, this shifting from the DSP to say, ecologically sound practices such as recycling, has shown to be just as difficult as any paradigm because it is a part of the economy, politics and other components of the fabrics of developed world cultures. Although great strides have been made in this regard, there is obviously still much more work to do because of global warming and globalization (Kilbourne and Polansky, 2005).

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ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 3

In 1978, Riley Dunlap and William R. Catton, Jr., promoted a new theory they entitled the New Environmental Paradigm (NEP). The concept takes into account that residents on this planet require other organisms, ecological structures, etc. to exist even though they are different from the planet’s other denizens by the fact they are innovative and can advance technologically. Therefore, since this world does have limits on what kinds of resources it can supply, this would place constraints on what human beings can or cannot accomplish. Since the introduction of the NEP, both men and other colleagues have continually expanded upon their research and have included various social, economic and political factors in the concept. Therefore the DSP and NEP are similar only in they are both paradigms and how they were developed. What each espouses is the exact opposite of one another (Kilbourne and Polanski, 2005).

The NEP is probably the more popular of the two paradigms at this juncture in time, although interest in the environment has ebbed and flowed since the 1960’s. Examples of this are recycling programs, the use of alternative power sources such as the sun and wind, and even of the existence of an organization such as Environmental Protection Agency. This government agency’s focus is to implement regulations to control, eradicate and diminish environmental damage. There have also been trends incorporated by businesses to purchase recycled products and the use of electric cars.

In regards to the issue of legal standing when it applies to environmental law, it has a long history in the court system, with its backbone being the separation of powers among the Federal branches of government (Benzoni, 2008). The main issue with the Supreme Court’s interpretation of standing for environmental law means a species or environmental organism that has suffered an injury cannot bring their own case into court or have a citizen of the

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 4 United States act on their behalf. In order for a cause of action to be valid, a person or group of people must illustrate to the court that they or someone else they know has suffered an injury by the same thing, circumstance, or activity that may have affected an animal, plant or ecosystem. This practice can be quite a challenge for those in the field of environmental law, because it severely limits potential causes of action where injuries or damage, have indeed occurred (Benzoni, 2008).

• Benzoni, Franciso. (2008). Environmental Standing: Who Determines the Value of Other Life? Duke Environmental Law and Policy Forum. Volume 18:347, 344-370.
• Griswold, Eliza. (2012). How Silent Spring Ignited the Environmental Movement. The New York Times. MM36.
• Kilbourne and Polansky. (2005) Environmental Attitudes and Their Relation To The Dominant Social Paradigm Among University Students in New Zealand and Australia. Australian Marketing Journal 13 (2), 37-48.
• Milbraith, Lester. (2004) Environmentalists: Vanguard For A New Society. SUNY Press. 1984, 18-32.

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2024 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America

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1-25 of 1,350 results

Stanford University

Stanford, CA •

• • Rating 4.1 out of 5   1,281 reviews

Freshman: I honestly really like it here! It was my dream school and genuinely there are so many opportunities that you have access to. That said, its heat you make of it. No one will force you or push you to apply for things or cold email people. You just need to have the personal drive. Also, I love the area, its quiet, so if you're into big massive part vibes, it may not be the place for you. I love how they have options for weekends for people who don't party. Very accommodating! ... Read 1,281 reviews

• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 4%

Net price $14,402

SAT range 1470-1570

#1 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

STANFORD, CA ,

1281 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I honestly really like it here! It was my dream school and genuinely there are so many opportunities that you have access to. That said, its heat you make of it. No one will force you or push you to... .

Read 1281 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 4% ,

Net Price : $14,402 ,

SAT Range : 1470-1570 ,

Columbia University

New York, NY •

• • Rating 3.82 out of 5   1,361 reviews

Freshman: It has been great! Being in NYC is a very special aspect of college life here, but Columbia also feels very separate from the city so you don't get distracted. The party scene for me is dull, I barely find parties to go to (or people to go with) but I'm sure Greek life is having fun. The people are so diverse and brilliant and the academics have me more immersed than I have ever been. It has been tough to adjust but I think that's something we need to go through to grow. ... Read 1,361 reviews

Net price $12,411

#2 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

Blue checkmark.

NEW YORK, NY ,

1361 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says It has been great! Being in NYC is a very special aspect of college life here, but Columbia also feels very separate from the city so you don't get distracted. The party scene for me is dull, I... .

Read 1361 reviews.

Net Price : $12,411 ,

Yale University

New Haven, CT •

• • Rating 4.02 out of 5   1,051 reviews

Freshman: As someone who came from a low-income community and attended an underfunded high school, Yale is a dream come true. There are a plethora of resources for students with backgrounds like me, along with resources for the general student population. I like that Yale provides peer tutors for most STEM classes and writing tutors within the residential colleges (Hogwarts Houses) and the library's writing center. Additionally, the professors I've had thus far are wonderful and extremely helpful. They seem like they genuinely want their students to thrive and are willing to take some of their own time to help them. The student community at Yale is amazing and diverse. There is an astounding amount of clubs and activities for students to join, and I'm grateful for the many options I have. The housing at Yale can be hit-or-miss, especially when comparing the new residential colleges with the older ones. However, Yale's residential college system fosters a welcoming and tight-knit community. ... Read 1,051 reviews

Acceptance rate 5%

Net price $20,605

SAT range 1480-1580

#3 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

NEW HAVEN, CT ,

1051 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says As someone who came from a low-income community and attended an underfunded high school, Yale is a dream come true. There are a plethora of resources for students with backgrounds like me, along with... .

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Acceptance Rate : 5% ,

Net Price : $20,605 ,

SAT Range : 1480-1580 ,

Saint Michael's College

COLCHESTER, VT

• • Rating 3.77 out of 5   564

Furman University

GREENVILLE, SC

• • Rating 3.64 out of 5   613

University of Nevada, Reno

• • Rating 3.71 out of 5   4,052

Brown University

Providence, RI •

• • Rating 3.84 out of 5   1,081 reviews

Freshman: Attending Brown University was an enriching and transformative experience. I cherished the vibrant community that fostered intellectual curiosity and diversity. The open curriculum allowed me to explore a wide range of subjects, fostering interdisciplinary connections and personal growth. The faculty were not only experts in their fields but also approachable mentors who genuinely cared about students' academic and personal development. I appreciated the emphasis on critical thinking and the encouragement to question assumptions. However, I would suggest enhancing resources for mental health support and increasing accessibility to financial aid for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Overall, Brown provided a nurturing environment that empowered me to thrive academically and personally. ... Read 1,081 reviews

Acceptance rate 6%

Net price $25,028

SAT range 1460-1570

#4 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

PROVIDENCE, RI ,

1081 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Attending Brown University was an enriching and transformative experience. I cherished the vibrant community that fostered intellectual curiosity and diversity. The open curriculum allowed me to... .

Read 1081 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 6% ,

Net Price : $25,028 ,

SAT Range : 1460-1570 ,

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA •

• • Rating 4.15 out of 5   847 reviews

Alum: Attending Harvard College was transformative. The housing system fostered a strong sense of community, facilitating academic support and social interaction. The rigorous academics, led by renowned faculty, challenged me to think critically and pursue my interests. Harvard's commitment to diversity enriched my experience, and the vibrant location in Cambridge provided endless opportunities for exploration and growth. Harvard College offered an unparalleled experience that has left an indelible mark on my life. ... Read 847 reviews

Net price $13,910

#5 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

847 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Attending Harvard College was transformative. The housing system fostered a strong sense of community, facilitating academic support and social interaction. The rigorous academics, led by renowned... .

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Net Price : $13,910 ,

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ •

• • Rating 3.97 out of 5   470 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a first-year here at Princeton University and my experiences here have single-handedly changed my life. The school has offered me so much support in every facet of my life -- from academics, to finances, to extracurriculars. I feel that I am completely thriving here in a way that I was never able to before. Classes are suburb with professors who really care about not only about what we learn but also how we grow as individuals. Dining is amazing and we have the sweetest dining staff ever. There are so many options for clubs that you are never bored and can always find something for you. Overall, I feel like there is no better place for me than Princeton :). ... Read 470 reviews

Net price $20,908

#6 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

PRINCETON, NJ ,

470 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says I am currently a first-year here at Princeton University and my experiences here have single-handedly changed my life. The school has offered me so much support in every facet of my life -- from... .

Read 470 reviews.

Net Price : $20,908 ,

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University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI •

• • Rating 3.96 out of 5   4,710 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Michigan takes a lot of pride in calling itself the best university in the world, but while finishing up my sophomore year I could not agree more. There is such a healthy balance between challenging courses that make students competitive prospects in their next step in life and opportunities to destress and enjoy the "best years of our lives", from watching our football team win the national championship to simply receiving free treats around campus from staff. From my personal experience, I cannot offer any suggestions for change for this amazing university! I have met some of the most kindhearted and motivated people in friends and professors while here and I cannot imagine attending another college. ... Read 4,710 reviews

Acceptance rate 20%

Net price $19,205

SAT range 1340-1520

#7 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

ANN ARBOR, MI ,

4710 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says The University of Michigan takes a lot of pride in calling itself the best university in the world, but while finishing up my sophomore year I could not agree more. There is such a healthy balance... .

Read 4710 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 20% ,

Net Price : $19,205 ,

SAT Range : 1340-1520 ,

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH •

• • Rating 3.88 out of 5   745 reviews

Freshman: Great school! Not super diverse, but it’s easy to find your people. Profs are for the most part amazing and super inspirational. Definitely less competitive than the other Ivies. I have truly had the best time here and gotten to come out of my shell. ... Read 745 reviews

Net price $24,078

SAT range 1440-1560

#8 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

HANOVER, NH ,

745 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Great school! Not super diverse, but it’s easy to find your people. Profs are for the most part amazing and super inspirational. Definitely less competitive than the other Ivies. I have truly had the... .

Read 745 reviews.

Net Price : $24,078 ,

SAT Range : 1440-1560 ,

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• • Rating 4.16 out of 5   661 reviews

Sophomore: Great place to be challenged, learn, and grow. A safe environment to fall and fail. Lots of support and resources available but you need to take the initiative to reach out about them ... Read 661 reviews

Net price $30,958

SAT range 1510-1580

#9 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

661 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says Great place to be challenged, learn, and grow. A safe environment to fall and fail. Lots of support and resources available but you need to take the initiative to reach out about them .

Read 661 reviews.

Net Price : $30,958 ,

SAT Range : 1510-1580 ,

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY •

• • Rating 3.79 out of 5   2,077 reviews

Alum: Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cornell University. I was within the Policy Analysis and Management Department. Our courses were rigorous, but our professors encouraged collaboration with our peers through group papers, presentation, and problem sets. In addition, my peers were often happy and excited to work together. Outside of the PAM department, I was heavily involved with the Einhorn Center for Community-Engagement. Through my role at the Center, I really learned how to integrate community-engagement within my classes and professional work. I found that Cornell had many opportunities for students to engage with the Greater Ithaca community. ... Read 2,077 reviews

Acceptance rate 9%

Net price $24,262

SAT range 1450-1560

#10 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

ITHACA, NY ,

2077 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cornell University. I was within the Policy Analysis and Management Department. Our courses were rigorous, but our professors encouraged collaboration with... .

Read 2077 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 9% ,

Net Price : $24,262 ,

SAT Range : 1450-1560 ,

University of California - Berkeley

Berkeley, CA •

• • Rating 3.72 out of 5   4,480 reviews

Alum: My experience at Berkeley was profoundly positive. Each school possesses its own distinctive personality, and Berkeley stands out for its constant engagement with societal issues. The university maintains a steadfast connection with the broader community, addressing pressing social concerns head-on. Students at Berkeley are remarkably passionate about effecting meaningful change in the world. Whether through activism, research, or community involvement, there's an undeniable drive among students to make a difference. Berkeley fosters an environment where such aspirations are nurtured and supported, instilling in its students a sense of purpose and a commitment to contributing positively to society. ... Read 4,480 reviews

Acceptance rate 14%

Net price $17,652

SAT range 1310-1530

#11 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

BERKELEY, CA ,

4480 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says My experience at Berkeley was profoundly positive. Each school possesses its own distinctive personality, and Berkeley stands out for its constant engagement with societal issues. The university... .

Read 4480 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 14% ,

Net Price : $17,652 ,

SAT Range : 1310-1530 ,

University of California - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA •

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   5,586 reviews

Alum: As with any college, the experience is what you make of it. UCLA just presents a lot of diversity in terms of the experiences that you can have. You can get your party fix in on Thursdays at frat row, kickbacks through cultural or professional organizations, or even a warehouse rave in the Arts District. Academically, there are plenty of opportunities for research and internships. It can be difficult to get into certain classes until you are in your 3rd or 4th year, though. Living on campus is really helpful for finding friends and the food is definitely a blow-out compared to other schools I've visited. Only downside is that housing in general is expensive due to the area, so you'll likely be sharing a room and living on a budget! ... Read 5,586 reviews

Acceptance rate 11%

Net price $13,393

SAT range —

#12 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

5586 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says As with any college, the experience is what you make of it. UCLA just presents a lot of diversity in terms of the experiences that you can have. You can get your party fix in on Thursdays at frat... .

Read 5586 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 11% ,

Net Price : $13,393 ,

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Rice University

Houston, TX •

• • Rating 4.09 out of 5   1,121 reviews

Graduate Student: Going to Rice University to attend the Shepherd School of Music at a graduate level is an experience separate from the rest of Rice. The Opera Department at Rice University has been one of the best programs in the United States producing incredible singers in the industry for a while now. Financial aid has been decreasing from full rides to having to pay a couple of thousands to attend +fees for a Master of Music. It is case by case, however. Pros: BEAUTIFUL theater that is incredible to sing in, program's very YAP reminiscent (in good and bad ways), world-class faculty, great networking opportunity, masterclasses/private audition opportunities Cons: your soul/free-time belongs to the Opera Department; if a release conflicts with the opera schedule, tough luck; there have been many issues with casting opportunities/favoritism; if you're a person of color, be prepared to be a token on all promo material; TOO many irrelevant time-consuming academics; having a car is a MUST in Houston ... Read 1,121 reviews

Net price $18,521

SAT range 1490-1570

#13 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

HOUSTON, TX ,

1121 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Going to Rice University to attend the Shepherd School of Music at a graduate level is an experience separate from the rest of Rice. The Opera Department at Rice University has been one of the best... Pros: BEAUTIFUL theater that is incredible to sing in, program's very YAP reminiscent (in good and bad ways), world-class faculty, great networking opportunity, masterclasses/private audition... Cons: your soul/free-time belongs to the Opera Department; if a release conflicts with the opera schedule, tough luck; there have been many issues with casting opportunities/favoritism; if you're a... .

Read 1121 reviews.

Net Price : $18,521 ,

SAT Range : 1490-1570 ,

Duke University

Durham, NC •

• • Rating 3.93 out of 5   1,206 reviews

Junior: Duke is an amazing place to go to college! I have loved every minute here as CS major -- the classes are challenging, professors are engaging and available, the campus is beautiful, and the people are incredibly smart and down-to-earth. I chose Duke over some other great schools and I can't recommend it enough! ... Read 1,206 reviews

Net price $27,297

#14 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

DURHAM, NC ,

1206 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says Duke is an amazing place to go to college! I have loved every minute here as CS major -- the classes are challenging, professors are engaging and available, the campus is beautiful, and the people... .

Read 1206 reviews.

Net Price : $27,297 ,

Texas A&M University

College Station, TX •

• • Rating 4.06 out of 5   7,826 reviews

Alum: As a Texas A&M University alum, I can vouch for the school's continuous tradition of quality. Both students and graduates can have a life-changing experience at Texas A&M thanks to its robust academic offerings and lively campus culture. The university's demanding curriculum and abundance of chances for both personal and professional development demonstrate its dedication to promoting leadership, integrity, and service. I'm honored to be an Aggie in a community that embraces inclusivity, innovation, and heritage. Texas A&M never stops changing the world, whether it be via innovative research, competitive sports, or community service programs. My time at Texas A&M has not only equipped me with the knowledge and skills needed for success but has also instilled in me a sense of pride and belonging that will last a lifetime. Gig 'em! ... Read 7,826 reviews

Acceptance rate 64%

Net price $22,253

SAT range 1140-1380

#15 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

COLLEGE STATION, TX ,

7826 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says As a Texas A&M University alum, I can vouch for the school's continuous tradition of quality. Both students and graduates can have a life-changing experience at Texas A&M thanks to its robust... .

Read 7826 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 64% ,

Net Price : $22,253 ,

SAT Range : 1140-1380 ,

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR •

• • Rating 3.72 out of 5   3,135 reviews

Senior: OSU is a really great school for many different academic programs if you're willing to commit yourself to your education. This school is especially known for its engineering program, but also its agricultural programs, since it was originally founded as an agricultural school. Corvallis is very expensive to live in, but is probably the best college town in the Pacific Northwest. I highly recommend taking an Ethnic Studies class here! ... Read 3,135 reviews

• grade  A minus Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 89%

Net price $20,318

SAT range 1120-1370

#16 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

CORVALLIS, OR ,

3135 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Senior says OSU is a really great school for many different academic programs if you're willing to commit yourself to your education. This school is especially known for its engineering program, but also its... .

Read 3135 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A minus ,

Acceptance Rate : 89% ,

Net Price : $20,318 ,

SAT Range : 1120-1370 ,

Washington University in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO •

• • Rating 4.11 out of 5   1,573 reviews

Sophomore: I am a sophomore at WashU. The depth of the education and the number of opportunities (if you seek them) can be life-changing. The business school is super good at hosting recruitment events if your interested in business careers, and the academics ARE HARD -- You will do a lot of work. CS department could be stronger; premed/ bio/chem/pre-law deps / olin are excellent. The undergraduate student body is tight-knit and mostly extremely friendly. People are very smart but not obnoxious or entitled. Campus life is great because many of the undergrads (freshmen, sophomores, and some juniors) live on campus. The housing is excellent, and many students have kitchens on campus. St Louis is certainly not a luxury city (i.e. NY or LA) but does have good restaurants (DRIVE NOT WALK AWAY) and a cheap cost of living (concerts are usually way cheaper). It is way better than being in the woods, but not the bestest place. The school has partially impeded on the fun with their attack on greek life. ... Read 1,573 reviews

Acceptance rate 13%

Net price $28,298

#17 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

SAINT LOUIS, MO ,

1573 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says I am a sophomore at WashU. The depth of the education and the number of opportunities (if you seek them) can be life-changing. The business school is super good at hosting recruitment events if your... The undergraduate student body is tight-knit and mostly extremely friendly. People are very smart but not obnoxious or entitled. Campus life is great because many of the undergrads (freshmen,... .

Read 1573 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 13% ,

Net Price : $28,298 ,

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL •

• • Rating 3.91 out of 5   8,078 reviews

Senior: The University of Florida is amazing! The culture here is very "work hard, play hard." The classes are rigorous and the students are very ambitious and involved in many organizations. Greek Life and partying is also pretty big here. Sports are huge -- football and tailgating especially! The city itself (Gainesville, FL) is a small college town, which is really fun! Overall, I made the best decision coming to UF and highly recommend it! ... Read 8,078 reviews

Acceptance rate 30%

Net price $9,809

SAT range 1300-1470

#18 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

GAINESVILLE, FL ,

8078 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Senior says The University of Florida is amazing! The culture here is very "work hard, play hard." The classes are rigorous and the students are very ambitious and involved in many organizations. Greek Life and... .

Read 8078 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 30% ,

Net Price : $9,809 ,

SAT Range : 1300-1470 ,

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME •

• • Rating 4.11 out of 5   727 reviews

Alum: Amazing food, great dorms, and professors that changed my whole perspective on life. I got very sick of the institutional bureaucracy but that might have been true at any college I went to. Other students of color -- be very aware that this is a PWI in a major way, it can be VERY isolating and disheartening. If you go here, I encourage you to ask for support and hold your people close. They have a lot of funding opportunities for research projects and individual interest projects. Take advantage of their huge endowment and apply for grants to do things you're interested in! Hang in there y'all ... Read 727 reviews

Net price $26,727

SAT range 1360-1510

#19 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

BRUNSWICK, ME ,

727 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Amazing food, great dorms, and professors that changed my whole perspective on life. I got very sick of the institutional bureaucracy but that might have been true at any college I went to. Other... .

Read 727 reviews.

Net Price : $26,727 ,

SAT Range : 1360-1510 ,

University of California - Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA •

• • Rating 3.85 out of 5   4,727 reviews

Senior: The art department is horrible, but the campus, environment and student life make everything worthwhile. One of the best campuses in the world! ... Read 4,727 reviews

Acceptance rate 29%

Net price $17,333

SAT range 1230-1460

#20 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

SANTA BARBARA, CA ,

4727 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Senior says The art department is horrible, but the campus, environment and student life make everything worthwhile. One of the best campuses in the world! .

Read 4727 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 29% ,

Net Price : $17,333 ,

SAT Range : 1230-1460 ,

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD •

• • Rating 3.68 out of 5   1,407 reviews

Alum: Overall, my undergraduate experience at Johns Hopkins was great. The academics were challenging without being destructive to student mental health and there were always numerous clubs, involvement opportunities, and events on campus to attend in my free time. It was easy to find research opportunities at the hospital and in general, the professors were very supportive. I do wish that I had seen more of JHU's involvement in local communities and would love to see the college work to give back more to local communities in the future. ... Read 1,407 reviews

Acceptance rate 8%

Net price $20,680

SAT range 1470-1560

#21 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

BALTIMORE, MD ,

1407 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Overall, my undergraduate experience at Johns Hopkins was great. The academics were challenging without being destructive to student mental health and there were always numerous clubs, involvement... .

Read 1407 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 8% ,

Net Price : $20,680 ,

SAT Range : 1470-1560 ,

University of Washington

Seattle, WA •

• • Rating 3.79 out of 5   4,676 reviews

Graduate Student: The University of Washington offers a vibrant school life characterized by a welcoming atmosphere and warm-hearted professors who genuinely care about their students' success. Interactions with classmates are often pleasant and enriching, fostering a sense of community. However, safety concerns linger as an area needing improvement. While the campus exudes warmth and inclusivity, addressing safety issues would further enhance the overall experience, ensuring students can focus on their studies without worry. Despite this aspect, the university's positive attributes, from its supportive faculty to its friendly student body, create a conducive environment for academic and personal growth. ... Read 4,676 reviews

Acceptance rate 53%

Net price $8,701

SAT range 1200-1470

#22 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

SEATTLE, WA ,

4676 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says The University of Washington offers a vibrant school life characterized by a welcoming atmosphere and warm-hearted professors who genuinely care about their students' success. Interactions with... .

Read 4676 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 53% ,

Net Price : $8,701 ,

SAT Range : 1200-1470 ,

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

• • Rating 3.82 out of 5   1,295 reviews

Sophomore: Starting out at this university was not easy for me since I had to face many challenges on my own, away from family and friends I had back home. However, I had adjusted to the quarter system and found my place at the college. UChicago academics have impressed me, even with the required core classes. The professors I have met so far all appear to be enthusiastic about their specific fields, and they can be especially helpful outside of class. Given that our campus is located within a neighborhood, there are plenty of community activities and restaurants that students can hang out at, such as a Mexican-Korean restaurant called Seoul Taco. There are multiple dormitory buildings on campus, and the southern one is especially convenient as it has a dining hall, gym, and a small store all in one general place. There are also plenty of clubs, called RSOs, ranging from many types of activities like boxing or Japanese drum practice (Taiko). I would like more transportation options to explore. ... Read 1,295 reviews

Net price $33,727

#23 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

CHICAGO, IL ,

1295 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says Starting out at this university was not easy for me since I had to face many challenges on my own, away from family and friends I had back home. However, I had adjusted to the quarter system and... .

Read 1295 reviews.

Net Price : $33,727 ,

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN •

• • Rating 4.01 out of 5   1,346 reviews

Graduate Student: My time at Vanderbilt University was truly enriching. The academic atmosphere fostered a culture of excellence and intellectual curiosity that I found invigorating. The professors were not only knowledgeable but also deeply invested in the success of their students, providing invaluable mentorship and guidance. The campus itself is beautiful, with a vibrant campus life offering countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. I particularly enjoyed the plethora of extracurricular activities available, from student clubs to research initiatives. What stood out to me was Vanderbilt's commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for students from all walks of life. However, one area that could be improved is the accessibility of certain resources, especially for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Enhancing financial aid and support services for these students would further enhance the University. ... Read 1,346 reviews

Acceptance rate 7%

Net price $27,553

SAT range 1480-1570

#24 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

NASHVILLE, TN ,

1346 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says My time at Vanderbilt University was truly enriching. The academic atmosphere fostered a culture of excellence and intellectual curiosity that I found invigorating. The professors were not only... What stood out to me was Vanderbilt's commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for students from all walks of life. However, one area that could be improved is the... .

Read 1346 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 7% ,

Net Price : $27,553 ,

SAT Range : 1480-1570 ,

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT •

• • Rating 3.81 out of 5   530 reviews

Junior: Middlebury has really amazing resources. There is always someone available to help with finding awesome internships, with planning your class schedule, with improving your grade, or requesting aid money. Because the school is so small I've also gotten to know all my professors well. I've found that professors have high expectations about my level of understanding on subjects and the amount of work I can do in a week. Friends who've come from IB programs or ones like it though have said that they have less work here than in high school but not everyone feels that way. The nature around campus is also great! It can be hard to get off campus into the woods if you don't have a car but the outdoors club can help with that. The college campus culture is extremely wealthy. Students' cars are generally nice and the number of students who travel during each break is high. Most students come from cushy backgrounds and it can be hard to find people who have a different relationship to wealth. ... Read 530 reviews

Net price $26,958

SAT range 1380-1530

#25 Best Colleges for Environmental Science in America .

MIDDLEBURY, VT ,

530 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says Middlebury has really amazing resources. There is always someone available to help with finding awesome internships, with planning your class schedule, with improving your grade, or requesting aid... The nature around campus is also great! It can be hard to get off campus into the woods if you don't have a car but the outdoors club can help with that. The college campus culture is extremely wealthy. Students' cars are generally nice and the number of students who travel during each break is high. Most students come from cushy backgrounds and it... .

Read 530 reviews.

Net Price : $26,958 ,

SAT Range : 1380-1530 ,

Vermont State University Johnson

JOHNSON, VT

• • Rating 3.19 out of 5   341

Lawrence University

APPLETON, WI

• • Rating 3.68 out of 5   715

Boise State University

• • Rating 3.7 out of 5   2,833

Showing results 1 through 25 of 1,350

Best Colleges for Environmental Science

Our goal at Niche is to connect students across the country to the colleges and universities that best fit their educational needs and goals. College is a time of great opportunity and growth when you find the right college for you. If you are interested in an environmental science degree, we can help you make the right connections.

With our help, you can search for the best colleges for environmental science majors. You can search by location, tuition rate, starting salaries for graduates, and many other criteria. Let us help you find the best colleges for environmental science degree in the country right here at Niche.

What is Environmental Science?

Environmental science studies the interactions between the physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment. As an environmental science major, you’ll study factors in our environment such as energy, agriculture, water, and air. Since the world is ever-changing, environmental science majors also explore the causes and effects of climate change and the impact of humans on the environment.

What is the coursework like?

The coursework for environmental science majors can be varied and challenging and includes a variety of science departments. First, you’ll learn about the physical environment of the earth and the relationships between the environment and other scientific fields. You will study how the physical environment relates to human history, the political realm, and other sciences like biology, chemistry, and physics.

Students interested in environmental science should be comfortable studying many scientific topics. This field of study works well for students that like being outdoors and are interested in nature preservation. Traits like curiosity and open-mindedness are a must. Students will also need an interest in scientific research.

What to do with an Environmental Science Degree?

Students earning an environmental science degree will have multiple career options available. Opportunities in the environmental industry are growing. Some of the careers in that industry for graduates include the following:

• Policy analyst : Policy analysts are responsible for analyzing research and relating findings to policies to protect the environment.
• Environmental planner : Environmental planners work to minimize the adverse effects urban development has on the environment. They focus on urban expansion and revitalization that is more environmentally friendly, sustainable, and within regulations.
• Environmental scientist : Environmental scientists research the environment and its impact on humans to identify threats and later seek solutions to minimize and eliminate the problems through policy recommendations.
• Water conservationist : Water conservationists work to conserve water. They identify threats to the water supply and mitigate the dangers that threaten the water supply. This work crosses over with careers in water sanitation, as you will also need to be aware of and identify potential environmental health problems.

See What’s Out There

Connecting with the best colleges for environmental science is made easy at Niche. We can show you all the best four-year degree schools offering traditional classroom or online courses  so you can earn your environmental science degree from home. We have everything you need to start your path as an environmental science major.

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America’s Colleges Are Reaping What They Sowed

Universities spent years saying that activism is not just welcome but encouraged on their campuses. Students took them at their word.

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N ick Wilson, a sophomore at Cornell University, came to Ithaca, New York, to refine his skills as an activist. Attracted by both Cornell’s labor-relations school and the university’s history of campus radicalism, he wrote his application essay about his involvement with a Democratic Socialists of America campaign to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize Act . When he arrived on campus, he witnessed any number of signs that Cornell shared his commitment to not just activism but also militant protest, taking note of a plaque commemorating the armed occupation of Willard Straight Hall in 1969.

Cornell positively romanticizes that event: The university library has published a “ Willard Straight Hall Occupation Study Guide ,” and the office of the dean of students once co-sponsored a panel on the protest. The school has repeatedly screened a documentary about the occupation, Agents of Change . The school’s official newspaper, published by the university media-relations office, ran a series of articles honoring the 40th anniversary, in 2009, and in 2019, Cornell held a yearlong celebration for the 50th, complete with a commemorative walk, a dedication ceremony, and a public conversation with some of the occupiers. “ Occupation Anniversary Inspires Continued Progress ,” the Cornell Chronicle headline read.

As Wilson has discovered firsthand, however, the school’s hagiographical odes to prior protests have not prevented it from cracking down on pro-Palestine protests in the present. Now that he has been suspended for the very thing he told Cornell he came there to learn how to do—radical political organizing—he is left reflecting on the school’s hypocrisies. That the theme of this school year at Cornell is “Freedom of Expression” adds a layer of grim humor to the affair.

Evan Mandery: University of hypocrisy

University leaders are in a bind. “These protests are really dynamic situations that can change from minute to minute,” Stephen Solomon, who teaches First Amendment law and is the director of NYU’s First Amendment Watch—an organization devoted to free speech—told me. “But the obligation of universities is to make the distinction between speech protected by the First Amendment and speech that is not.” Some of the speech and tactics protesters are employing may not be protected under the First Amendment, while much of it plainly is. The challenge universities are confronting is not just the law but also their own rhetoric. Many universities at the center of the ongoing police crackdowns have long sought to portray themselves as bastions of activism and free thought. Cornell is one of many universities that champion their legacy of student activism when convenient, only to bring the hammer down on present-day activists when it’s not. The same colleges that appeal to students such as Wilson by promoting opportunities for engagement and activism are now suspending them. And they’re calling the cops.

The police activity we are seeing universities level against their own students does not just scuff the carefully cultivated progressive reputations of elite private universities such as Columbia, Emory University, and NYU, or the equally manicured free-speech bona fides of red-state public schools such as Indiana University and the University of Texas at Austin. It also exposes what these universities have become in the 21st century. Administrators have spent much of the recent past recruiting social-justice-minded students and faculty to their campuses under the implicit, and often explicit, promise that activism is not just welcome but encouraged. Now the leaders of those universities are shocked to find that their charges and employees believed them. And rather than try to understand their role in cultivating this morass, the Ivory Tower’s bigwigs have decided to apply their boot heels to the throats of those under their care.

I spoke with 30 students, professors, and administrators from eight schools—a mix of public and private institutions across the United States—to get a sense of the disconnect between these institutions’ marketing of activism and their treatment of protesters. A number of people asked to remain anonymous. Some were untenured faculty or administrators concerned about repercussions from, or for, their institutions. Others were directly involved in organizing protests and were wary of being harassed. Several incoming students I spoke with were worried about being punished by their school before they even arrived. Despite a variety of ideological commitments and often conflicting views on the protests, many of those I interviewed were “shocked but not surprised”—a phrase that came up time and again—by the hypocrisy exhibited by the universities with which they were affiliated. (I reached out to Columbia, NYU, Cornell, and Emory for comment on the disconnect between their championing of past protests and their crackdowns on the current protesters. Representatives from Columbia, Cornell, and Emory pointed me to previous public statements. NYU did not respond.)

The sense that Columbia trades on the legacy of the Vietnam protests that rocked campus in 1968 was widespread among the students I spoke with. Indeed, the university honors its activist past both directly and indirectly, through library archives , an online exhibit , an official “Columbia 1968” X account , no shortage of anniversary articles in Columbia Magazine , and a current course titled simply “Columbia 1968.” The university is sometimes referred to by alumni and aspirants as the “Protest Ivy.” One incoming student told me that he applied to the school in part because of an admissions page that prominently listed community organizers and activists among its “distinguished alumni.”

Joseph Slaughter, an English professor and the executive director of Columbia’s Institute for the Study of Human Rights, talked with his class about the 1968 protests after the recent arrests at the school. He said his students felt that the university had actively marketed its history to them. “Many, many, many of them said they were sold the story of 1968 as part of coming to Columbia,” he told me. “They talked about it as what the university presents to them as the long history and tradition of student activism. They described it as part of the brand.”

This message reaches students before they take their first college class. As pro-Palestine demonstrations began to raise tensions on campus last month, administrators were keen to cast these protests as part of Columbia’s proud culture of student activism. The aforementioned high-school senior who had been impressed by Columbia’s activist alumni attended the university’s admitted-students weekend just days before the April 18 NYPD roundup. During the event, the student said, an admissions official warned attendees that they may experience “disruptions” during their visit, but boasted that these were simply part of the school’s “long and robust history of student protest.”

Remarkably, after more than 100 students were arrested on the order of Columbia President Minouche Shafik—in which she overruled a unanimous vote by the university senate’s executive committee not to bring the NYPD to campus —university administrators were still pushing this message to new students and parents. An email sent on April 19 informed incoming students that “demonstration, political activism, and deep respect for freedom of expression have long been part of the fabric of our campus.” Another email sent on April 20 again promoted Columbia’s tradition of activism, protest, and support of free speech. “This can sometimes create moments of tension,” the email read, “but the rich dialogue and debate that accompany this tradition is central to our educational experience.”

Evelyn Douek and Genevieve Lakier: The hypocrisy underlying the campus-speech controversy

Another student who attended a different event for admitted students, this one on April 21, said that every administrator she heard speak paid lip service to the school’s long history of protest. Her own feelings about the pro-Palestine protests were mixed—she said she believes that a genocide is happening in Gaza and also that some elements of the protest are plainly anti-Semitic—but her feelings about Columbia’s decision to involve the police were unambiguous. “It’s reprehensible but exactly what an Ivy League institution would do in this situation. I don’t know why everyone is shocked,” she said, adding: “It makes me terrified to go there.”

Beth Massey, a veteran activist who participated in the 1968 protests, told me with a laugh, “They might want to tell us they’re progressive, but they’re doing the business of the ruling class.” She was not surprised by the harsh response to the current student encampment or by the fact that it lit the fuse on a nationwide protest movement. Massey had been drawn to the radical reputation of Columbia’s sister school, Barnard College, as an open-minded teenager from the segregated South: “I actually wanted to go to Barnard because they had a history of progressive struggle that had happened going all the way back into the ’40s.” And the barn-burning history that appealed to Massey in the late 1960s has continued to attract contemporary students, albeit with one key difference: Today, that radical history has become part of the way that Barnard and Columbia sell their $60,000-plus annual tuition.

Of course, Columbia is not alone. The same trends have also prevailed at NYU, which likes to crow about its own radical history and promises contemporary students “ a world of activism opportunities .” An article published on the university’s website in March—titled “Make a Difference Through Activism at NYU”—promises students “myriad chances to put your activism into action.” The article points to campus institutions that “provide students with resources and opportunities to spark activism and change both on campus and beyond.” The six years I spent as a graduate student at NYU gave me plenty of reasons to be cynical about the university and taught me to view all of this empty activism prattle as white noise. But even I was astounded to see a video of students and faculty set upon by the NYPD, arrested at the behest of President Linda Mills.

“Across the board, there is a heightened awareness of hypocrisy,” Mohamad Bazzi, a journalism professor at NYU, told me, noting that faculty were acutely conscious of the gap between the institution’s intensive commitment to DEI and the police crackdown. The university has recently made several “cluster hires”—centered on activism-oriented themes such as anti-racism, social justice, and indigeneity—that helped diversify the faculty. Some of those recent hires were among the people who spent a night zip-tied in a jail cell, arrested for the exact kind of activism that had made them attractive to NYU in the first place. And it wasn’t just faculty. The law students I spoke with were especially acerbic. After honing her activism skills at her undergraduate institution—another university that recently saw a violent police response to pro-Palestine protests—one law student said she came to NYU because she was drawn to its progressive reputation and its high percentage of prison-abolitionist faculty. This irony was not lost on her as the police descended on the encampment.

After Columbia students were arrested on April 18, students at NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study decided to cancel a planned art festival and instead use the time to make sandwiches as jail support for their detained uptown peers. The school took photos of the students layering cold cuts on bread and posted it to Gallatin’s official Instagram. These posts not only failed to mention that the students were working in support of the pro-Palestine protesters; the caption—“making sandwiches for those in need”—implied that the undergrads might be preparing meals for, say, the homeless.

The contradictions on display at Cornell, Columbia, and NYU are not limited to the state of New York. The police response at Emory, another university that brags about its tradition of student protest, was among the most disturbing I have seen. Faculty members I spoke with at the Atlanta school, including two who had been arrested—the philosophy professor Noëlle McAfee and the English and Indigenous-studies professor Emil’ Keme—recounted harrowing scenes: a student being knocked down, an elderly woman struggling to breathe after tear-gas exposure, a colleague with welts from rubber bullets. These images sharply contrast with the university’s progressive mythmaking, a process that was in place even before 2020’s “summer of racial reckoning” sent universities scrambling to shore up their activist credentials.

In 2018, Emory’s Campus Life office partnered with students and a design studio to begin work on an exhibit celebrating the university’s history of identity-based activism. Then, not long after George Floyd’s murder, the university’s library released a series of blog posts focusing on topics including “Black Student Activism at Emory,” “Protests and Movements,” “Voting Rights and Public Policy,” and “Authors and Artists as Activists.” That same year, the university announced its new Arts and Social Justice Fellows initiative, a program that “brings Atlanta artists into Emory classrooms to help students translate their learning into creative activism in the name of social justice.” In 2021, the university put on an exhibit celebrating its 1969 protests , in which “Black students marched, demonstrated, picketed, and ‘rapped’ on those institutions affecting the lives of workers and students at Emory.” Like Cornell’s and Columbia’s, Emory’s protests seem to age like fine wine: It takes half a century before the institution begins enjoying them.

N early every person I talked with believed that their universities’ responses were driven by donors, alumni, politicians, or some combination thereof. They did not believe that they were grounded in serious or reasonable concerns about the physical safety of students; in fact, most felt strongly that introducing police into the equation had made things far more dangerous for both pro-Palestine protesters and pro-Israel counterprotesters. Jeremi Suri, a historian at UT Austin—who told me he is not politically aligned with the protesters—recalls pleading with both the dean of students and the mounted state troopers to call off the charge. “It was like the Russian army had come onto campus,” Suri mused. “I was out there for 45 minutes to an hour. I’m very sensitive to anti-Semitism. Nothing anti-Semitic was said.” He added: “There was no reason not to let them shout until their voices went out.”

From the May 1930 issue: Hypocrisy–a defense

As one experienced senior administrator at a major research university told me, the conflagration we are witnessing shows how little many university presidents understand either their campus communities or the young people who populate them. “When I saw what Columbia was doing, my immediate thought was: They have not thought about day two ,” he said, laughing. “If you confront an 18-year-old activist, they don’t back down. They double down.” That’s what happened in 1968, and it’s happening again now. Early Tuesday morning, Columbia students occupied Hamilton Hall—the site of the 1968 occupation, which they rechristened Hind’s Hall in honor of a 6-year-old Palestinian girl killed in Gaza—in response to the university’s draconian handling of the protests. They explicitly tied these events to the university’s past, calling out its hypocrisy on Instagram: “This escalation is in line with the historical student movements of 1968 … which Columbia repressed then and celebrates today.” The university, for its part, responded now as it did then: Late on Tuesday, the NYPD swarmed the campus in an overnight raid that led to the arrest of dozens of students.

The students, professors, and administrators I’ve spoken with in recent days have made clear that this hypocrisy has not gone unnoticed and that the crackdown isn’t working, but making things worse. The campus resistance has expanded to include faculty and students who were originally more ambivalent about the protests and, in a number of cases, who support Israel. They are disturbed by what they rightly see as violations of free expression, the erosion of faculty governance, and the overreach of administrators. Above all, they’re fed up with the incandescent hypocrisy of institutions, hoisted with their own progressive petards, as the unstoppable force of years’ worth of self-righteous rhetoric and pseudo-radical posturing meets the immovable object of students who took them at their word.

In another video published by The Cornell Daily Sun , recorded only hours after he was suspended, Nick Wilson explained to a crowd of student protesters what had brought him to the school. “In high school, I discovered my passion, which was community organizing for a better world. I told Cornell University that’s why I wanted to be here,” he said, referencing his college essay. Then he paused for emphasis, looking around as his peers began to cheer. “And those fuckers admitted me.”

Political Science

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Q&a: environmental politics and policy professor stephen mumme reflects on 40-year csu career.

After over four decades on the faculty in the CSU Department of Political Science, Dr. Stephen Mumme will be retiring at the end of the 2024 spring semester. Mumme spent his career specializing in comparative government with a focus on environmental politics and policy— with a research focus that has centered on water management and environmental politics along the U.S.-Mexico border. Steve has authored or co-authored several monographs and more than 150 journal articles and chapters. He is best known as a leading authority on the work of the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico and the landmark 1944 Water Treaty that governs transboundary water management. Mumme leaves behind a rich legacy of research and teaching that has elevated the Department of Political Science.

  How did your interest in water policy begin? My fundamental interest has always been understanding Mexican government and Mexico’s relationship with the U.S. I had planned to write a dissertation on Mexican immigration to the U.S.—an extension of my M.A. thesis on Mexican population policy. But my dissertation supervisor thought too many dissertations were being written at the time on aspects of the immigration situation and asked me to propose another topic. I was aware that the Colorado River had become controversial in the preceding decade and noticed that several international lawyers were proposing that the two countries reach a bilateral agreement on groundwater. The political impediments to such a treaty were formidable and I thought I could bring a political science and policy perspective to that discussion. My dissertation on groundwater management along the boundary required an in-depth immersion in international water law and domestic water policy (Mexico and U.S.) more generally and that paved the way for an enduring interest in binational water and environmental affairs. What was your first year like at CSU? Interesting. I was hired to teach Latin American Politics and contribute to the new Ph.D. program focused on the environment and natural resources. At the time (1983) there were very few political science doctoral programs focused heavily on environmental topics and none that had the obligatory environmental dissertation mandate we have. Few political science faculty members nationwide writing on the environment were trained in the field of environmental policy or politics. These programs were in their infancy, as was ours. So, there was much to do figuring out how to develop our new doctoral program on the environment—Jessica Kozloff, our first doctoral/environment student (who became president of Bloomberg College in Pennsylvania), had just graduated when I arrived. The program was so young that some tenured faculty members were still opposed to the program, preferring the department take a more general heading with its graduate programs. Most senior faculty and John Straayer, department chair, were on board and highly supportive. But it was clear there were some lingering tensions when I arrived. So, as I said, it was an interesting time to join the department. How did your expertise evolve during your tenure? My dissertation work brought me into contact with a number of prominent water scholars from various disciplines early in my career and I was lucky to have some good mentors that made a number of research opportunities available. Early in my career I continued to focus on Mexico’s internal environmental politics and to this day I continue to follow those developments. But shortly after completing my dissertation Mexico and the U.S. signed an environmental cooperation agreement and I knew several of the international lawyers that influenced the agreement. So, it was an opportunity to broaden my focus to consider a gamut of environmental concerns confronting both countries along the boundary. I knew that environmental issues would only grow in importance as the rapidly industrializing border region generated serious challenges that could only be met by greater binational cooperation on environmental protection. These concerns intersected in various ways with water management. So, as research interests often do, one project leads to another and to varied opportunities to build on what you’ve learned. I benefitted from the fact that in the 80’s and 90’s only a handful of scholars from various disciplines paid attention to border water and environmental matters. That is no longer true, and I’m proud to have paved the way for a larger group of emerging scholars from different disciplines who are interested in these problems. These are inherently interdisciplinary issues. What have you appreciated about CSU as your career home? Three things come to mind. First, the department and the university from the time I arrived developed a solid framework for supporting environmental research that encouraged both disciplinary and interdisciplinary scholarship. This only strengthened over time (think SOGES). I always felt supported and was rarely second-guessed by colleagues as I pursued my research agenda. Second, I was privileged to play a part in designing our department code in the late 1980’s (yes, it dates back that far) which by design established a system that supported faculty disciplinary and interdisciplinary effort, advanced environmental studies while equally valuing faculty who were not focused on environmental affairs, and established a decision-making system in which all faculty have a meaningful voice in department affairs. Third, and most personally rewarding, is seeing one’s students go on to rewarding careers. To take just one example from early in my career, I am proud to have encouraged Dr. Jeni Cross (Sociology) to pursue her doctoral degree, which she did at UC Davis, returning to CSU to make a distinguished career in the CSU sociology department. It doesn’t get better than that. What are you most looking forward to as you transition into retirement? Continuing to research and follow border water and environmental affairs working with Rice University’s Mexico Center, working with the Colorado AAUP, seeing daughters a little more often, spending a little more time in Arizona closer to extended family, and having more time for discretionary travel with friends and family. Definitely not Golf.  

Political Science colleagues reflect on Mumme’s impact:

“Steve Mumme is an extraordinary political scientist, Latin Americanist and Mexico specialist. He is a prolific writer and researcher whose contributions to our field are immense. His work has helped advance the study of borders and environmental politics. He has been a generous mentor to many people in our discipline, including myself. His selfless dedication to building strong academic institutions that protect faculty governance and academic freedom is one of his most important legacies. Here, I would like to commend his dedication to the AAUP in defending the rights of academic workers. Steve’s extraordinary life, from his childhood in Bolivia to his experience in Vietnam, and more, has produced a genuinely interesting and generous person, knowledgeable about the human condition in general, and politics in particular. He has touched my career, advised me well, and opened doors. I am honored to know him and count myself as one of his colleagues.” – Prof. Marcela Velasco

“Steve has been a true steward of the department, and his impact goes far beyond Political Science. There are countless ways in which he has made CSU a more hospitable and just working environment. Steve has never been a self-promotor, so many of these actions aren’t widely known or appreciated, but everyone in the department and the college of liberal arts owes Steve a debt of gratitude. In addition, Steve is also a scholar’s scholar; his dedication to the craft and vocation of scholarship has been a shining example of what is possible in academia. In short, Steve has been an amazing colleague and role model. His steady presence will be deeply missed.” – Prof. David McIvor

“I have known Steve since I started here in 2018. As a new assistant professor, there were a lot of things I asked for his advice on, especially on student advising and mentoring, and he was always willing to talk and invest time and energy in my progress. He has not only been a supportive colleague but a great mentor. I have several students in my capstone class who have developed their capstone projects from what they have learned and written for Steve’s courses, especially the POLS 331 course. The students always speak very enthusiastically about that course. His dedication to students has made a huge difference in my journey of advising students. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Steve for his generous support over the past few years.” – Prof. Julia Lee

“I want to share my gratitude for Steve’s service and contributions in the department and university, and my immense respect for his dedication to research and teaching that has elevated the Department of Political Science.” – Prof. Robert Duffy, Department Chair

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Animal Science Department

College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences

Areas of Study

• Animal Science Program Learning Objectives
• Pre-Veterinary Medicine
• Biotechnology
• Sheep & Goats
• Comparative Animal Biology Studies
• Equine Science
• Poultry Management
• Range Resource Management
• Meat Science
• Dairy Science

Our Students

Animal science newsletter – spring 2024, from the department head.

There are a lot of new faces, changes, and updates to share. I am certainly among the newer faces and have thoroughly enjoyed my first year at Cal Poly. In my role as department head, I’ve had the opportunity to visit with many stakeholders ranging from students, staff and faculty, alumni and our many industry supporters and friends. The Cal Poly family is real.

The Animal Science Department is thriving and moving forward. The academic program is going strong. The faculty have been working hard on the conversion from quarters to semesters that will begin in fall 2026. With a significant boost from a one-time funding obtained by Dean Emeritus Andy Thulin, renovations of the dairy and creamery are in the works, as well as major fencing improvements and updating of vehicles, tractors and equipment. Even more exciting is the new Charles and Claire Jacobsen Animal Health Center that we are breaking ground on this spring. The center will embrace hands-on, Learn by Doing opportunities for students and shape the next generation of leaders in veterinary medicine, animal healthcare and animal agriculture.

I hope you will enjoy reading just a bit of what is happening in the Animal Science Department. We are looking forward to sharing much more in the future.

George R. Gallagher Department Head

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Esf to celebrate class of 2024.

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Commencement exercises to be held at The Amp

Syracuse, N.Y. – May 10, 2024 – The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) will award 409 degrees, including 55 master’s degrees and 16 Doctor of Philosophy degrees, during the 2024 May Commencement at 2 p.m. May 11 at the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview.

An Honorary Degree will be presented to Camille Dungy, an award-winning author and editor who has worked tirelessly to expand the realm of nature literature and environmental studies by bringing African-American voices into the canon.

ESF is celebrating graduates with several events throughout the week.

Student Speaker: Meghan O’Brien

Meghan O’Brien (Centerport, N.Y.) is an Environmental Health major. At  ESF, O’Brien served as vice president of the Environmental Health Club and was a competitive powerlifter with the Syracuse Barbell Club. Her studies focused on the science and art of soil regeneration, recognizing its crucial link to food quality and overall health. Following graduation, she aims to pursue a career as a soil scientist.

Student Marshals: Nicole Byrnes and Jenifer Lemus Sagastume

Nicole Byrnes (Brewster, N.Y.) is a Chemical Engineering and Paper Engineering major. She served as president of the SUSChemE Club and was on the 2021 yearbook staff. She received numerous scholarships, including the Syracuse Pulp and Paper Foundation and Asimov scholarships. She volunteers for clean-up initiatives and a cost-free fishing event for children. 

Jenifer Lemus Sagastume (East Meadow, N.Y.) is an Environmental Studies major with a concentration in Natural Systems Applications. As the vice president and co-founder of the Latin American Student Organization, she orchestrated several community-building events. She was on the President’s List and earned the Class of 1951 Scholarship. Lemus Sagastume engages in the Teach For America Ignite Fellowship and internships at Brookhaven National Laboratory. She volunteers with Pets4Luv and informal local clean-up initiatives.

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence Recipients: Lynzee Morris and Jade Nguyen

Lynzee Morris (Washington, Pa.) is a Biochemistry major who has contributed to research in organic and theoretical atmospheric chemistry labs, served as a teaching assistant for first-year chemistry students, and received the Outstanding Junior in Chemistry Award and the Chemistry Departmental Citizen Award. They are a member of the ESF Honor Society (AXS), a math tutor for a local fourth grader,  and a volunteer at a local dog shelter. They were involved with The Alchemist Society, the Sexuality and Gender Alliance, the Crypt Keepers, and worked in the Financial Aid Office. Post-graduation Morris plans to enter the workforce and pursue a master’s degree.

Jade Nguyen (Center Line, Mich.) is a December graduate who majored in Environmental Studies. At ESF, she held executive positions in the Environmental Studies Student Organization and The Baobab Society, tutored in the Public Speaking Lab, contributed to the Syracuse Urban Food Forest Project, worked at the Syracuse Cooperative Market, and earned President’s List recognition for six of her seven semesters. She received the Robin Hood Oak Award for Student Advocacy and spoke at ESF’s Inclusive Excellence Graduation Reception and December Soiree. Her next endeavor is as a planner at the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council.

Norman R. McConney Jr. Award Recipient: Amanda Castelan 

Amanda Castelan (Bronx, N.Y.)  is a Biotechnology major. Castelan served as an EOP Mentor for three years and participated in the 2023 SUNY EOP Student Leadership Conference. She is an artist and designed the 2024 ESF Earth Week T-shirt. She is a member of a Black Pre-Medical Society and participates in Impact Movement, a Bible study for people of color. She volunteers at BnR Bunkhouse, an animal shelter. Her post-graduation plans include nursing school, with a focus on psychiatric health.

Coordinator of Graduation Activities: Shirley Chen

Shirley Chen (Cleveland, Ohio) is an Environmental Studies major with a concentration in Environment, Communication, and Society. She held roles within the Green Campus Initiative and Break Free from Plastics Committee and was the Student Sustainability Research Assistant. Chen earned the Student Employee of the Year Award. At SU, she led initiatives as the Political Education Chair for Asian Students in America, focusing on the environmental justice committee. Chen is the i-Tree video consultant for Davey Tree Expert Company, advocating for tree equity. She will pursue environmental communication and TV production, focusing on educating children about science and sustainability.

Departmental Scholars

Chemical Engineering:  Adrian Wilson 

Wilson (Oswego, N.Y.) is originally from Manitoba, Canada, and worked in construction before pursuing his engineering degree at ESF. Balancing a young family and academics, Wilson served as president of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers student chapter at ESF. Last summer, he interned as a plant optimization engineer for Packaging Corporation of America and will return to a full-time management position following graduation.

Chemistry: Terry Morgan Eggleston

Eggleston (Redfield, N.Y.) has a concentration in natural products and has conducted various research projects in organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and environmental health. He credits ESF faculty and staff for creating a wonderful environment for rising scientists.

Environmental Biology: River Kai Soderholm

Soderholm (Milford, Conn.) attended Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Conn., and graduated with an associate degree in biology in 2022, receiving recognition for a 4.0 GPA and their volunteer work with the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Soderholm was involved with ESF’s Entomology Club, Herpetology Club, Friends of Oakwood Cemetery, Music Society, and Photography Club. Soderholm enjoys drawing, songwriting, and being outdoors. After graduation, they will begin an internship at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Environmental Resources Engineering: Jack Murtagh

Murtagh (Garden City, N.Y.) worked as an office assistant in the Environmental Resources Engineering office. He served as president of ESF’s New York Water Environment Association student chapter where he mentored younger students in career preparation and networking. He competed in the 2023 Water Environment Federation student design competition in Chicago and led his team to a third-place victory. Murtagh will be working as a water resources engineer for Barton & Loguidice in Syracuse, N.Y. 

Environmental Science: Clare Baryluk

Minor: Water Resources 

Baryluk (Columbus, Ohio) served as an undergraduate teaching assistant (TA) and peer tutor. As a sophomore, she was chosen to be a Biology I Laboratory TA and a peer tutor and student grader for Calculus I and II. In addition to her academic pursuits which include a minor in water resources, Baryluk had multiple internships in the environmental field including ones with the Camden Group and Heidelberg Materials.

Environmental Studies: Sophia Lawrence  

Lawrence (Buffalo, N.Y.) worked as the program assistant for Outdoor Recreation at the Barnes Center at the Arch at Syracuse University where she helped build the backpacking program and co-created the school’s first wilderness-based pre-orientation program. She was a tutor at ESF’s Writing Resource Center where she assisted with the Environmental Storytelling Series. Lawrence is heading to Alaska to work at the Wrangell Mountains Center and then to Maine to apprentice at a farm.

Landscape Architecture: McKenzie Dombroski 

Dombroski (Chittenango, N.Y.) has a minor in Recreation Resource and Protected Area Management and served as president of the Landscape Club. She was vice president of Sigma Lambda Alpha, the LA honor society. Dombroski was captain of ESF’s cross country and track teams, setting school records and helping the team win two USCAA national championships. After graduation, Dombroski will work as a landscape designer at The LA Group in Saratoga Springs.

Open Academy: Elizabeth Ringhoff

Major: Sustainability Management

Ringhoff (Rochester, N.Y.) graduated high school in 2005 and entered the workforce shortly after. She returned to school in 2019 to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Initially unsure about which major to choose, she took an introductory elective course on ecology and sustainability, which led her to sustainability management. Ringhoff will complete her degree with a LEED Green Associate certification.

Sustainable Resources Management: Hannah Babcock 

Babcock (Sackets Harbor, N.Y.) minored in Economics and Management and was a member of Alpha Xi Sigma Honor Society, the Sustainable Energy Club, and the Syracuse University Dynamic Sustainability Lab. Babcock received the John V. Berglund Memorial Forestry Scholarship and consistently placed on the President’s and Dean’s lists. Following graduation, Babcock will work as an energy coordinator with Frontier Energy.

About SUNY ESF

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.

Nevada Today

College of agriculture, biotechnology & natural resources hosts awards night, 47 outstanding students, faculty, staff and supporters recognized at the spring celebration.

Claus Tittiger (left), the College's associate dean of academic affairs, Premjit Halarnkar (center), global head of regulatory affairs at CH Biotech and a Ph.D. graduate of the College’s Biochemistry Program and Jake DeDecker (right), Extension director and the College's associate dean for engagement are seen sharing a lighthearted moment at the event. Photo by Molly Malloy.

More than 295 attendees gathered to recognize the academic achievements of graduating students and excellence in research, innovation and leadership among faculty and staff at the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources' annual Spring Celebration and Awards Night.  The event, which was held at Eldorado at THE ROW in Reno on April 26, recognized the 47 award winners and approximately 171 graduating undergraduate and graduate students present.

While Bill Payne, Dean of the College, was not able to attend the event, he sent his congratulatory remarks to the honorees of the event.

“This year’s ceremony is extra special as we celebrate not only our College’s accomplishments, but also, as the founding College of our University, to celebrate our University’s 150 th year of serving our state,” Payne said. “As has been the case throughout the history of our College, this year, you — our students, faculty, staff and supporters — have worked hard and given 100% to accomplish so much more than we will be able to mention this evening.

“I am delighted to recognize you and your hard work. I couldn’t be more proud and sincerely want to thank you all. I hope you enjoy the evening and sharing in each other’s successes.”

The event was emceed by Christian Kolberg, an alumnus of the University and current chair of University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Advisory Council. Throughout the evening, Kolberg was joined by a variety of presenters consisting of faculty and staff to honor all the recipients.

The awardees included:

Student Achievement Awards

Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences

• Kelly McCready – Outstanding Senior, Agricultural Science
• Sara Harvey – Outstanding Senior, Agricultural Science
• Koby Lindberg – Outstanding Senior, Nevada Teach: Agricultural Science
• Aspen Wright – Outstanding Senior, Rangeland Ecology & Management
• Naomi Maravilla – Outstanding Senior, Veterinary Science
• Isadora Batalha – Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Animal & Rangeland Science
• Uriel Cholula-Rivera – Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Animal & Rangeland Science

Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

• Grace Schmitt – Outstanding Senior, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
• Micah Woodruff – Outstanding Senior, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology 
• Jasmine Lam – Outstanding Senior, Biotechnology
• Monica Carey – Outstanding Senior, Biotechnology
• Austin Baldridge – Outstanding Master's Student, Biotechnology 
• Dean Trotta – Outstanding Master's Student, Biotechnology
• Kayleigh Robichaux – Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology 

Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science

• Morgan Yeager – Outstanding Senior, Environmental Science
• Belle (Angelica) Lodovico – Outstanding Senior, Forest Ecology & Management
• DidiAlice Coker – Outstanding Senior, Wildlife Ecology & Conservation
• James Golden – Outstanding Master's Student, Natural Resources & Environmental Science
• Kay Strain – Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology 
• Nathan Jackson – Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Natural Resources & Environmental Science 

Department of Nutrition

• Amanda Thurston – Outstanding Senior, Dietetics
• Barbara Stankuté – Outstanding Senior, Nutritional Science
• Masuda Akter – Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant, Nutrition
• Dillon Winkelman – Outstanding Ph.D. Student, Nutrition

Employee Award Winners

• Lindsay Chichester
• Katelyn Brinkerhoff
• Sarah Chvilicek
• Jessica Gardner
• Rachel McClure
• Kelsey Conklin
• Jill Baker-Tingey
• Kenny Haack-Damon
• Amber Yoder – Outstanding Extension Support Staff
• Andrew Nuss – Outstanding Researcher, Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences
• Erica Bigio – Outstanding Teacher, Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science
• Kim Higgins – Outstanding Administrative Faculty, Dean’s Office
• Natalie Mazzullo – Outstanding Extension Administrative Faculty
• Sarah Chvilicek – Outstanding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Extension
• Stephanie Patterson– Outstanding Classified Staff, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
• Teresa Byington – Outstanding Extension Researcher

Special Recognition Awards

• Jamie Benedict– Marsha Read Outstanding Leadership in Nutrition & Dietetics
• Kris Stewart– Outstanding Agriculturist
• Sarah Kulpa– Outstanding Leadership in Natural Resources & Environmental Science
• Yutaka Nomura– Outstanding Extension Supporter

In addition to honoring the recipients of the College awards, Claus Tittiger, associate dean of academic affairs for the College, recognized three individuals who have been recognized by the University for their successes.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed faculty and students who have already received honors this year,” Tittiger said. “I invite them to please stand and be recognized for their outstanding achievements."

These individuals included Karla Hernández , who received the 2024 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award from the University for promoting underrepresented students' involvement in STEM careers; Micah Woodruff, who was honored with the Sam Lieberman Regents’ Award for Student Scholarship for his outstanding academic achievements; and Jorge Esparza, who was presented with the Dale Bohmont Student Leadership Award.

During the celebration, attendees observed a moment of silence to remember two colleagues, Stan Omaye , a long-time faculty member and prolific researcher for the Department of Nutrition, and Ivory Lyles, director of Extension and associate dean for engagement between 2017 and 2021, who both died this year.

"We gather tonight not only to celebrate our achievements but also to remember and honor the legacies of our dear colleagues,” Claus Tittiger, associate dean of academic affairs for the College, said. “Their contributions to our College and the lives they touched will forever be cherished and remembered."

To close the evening, Kolberg urged graduating students to embark on their professional and academic journeys with confidence. He emphasized the significance of using their knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in their fields and communities. "The world still needs to learn about eating, conserving resources and finding innovative solutions to global challenges for a sustainable future," Kolberg said. "Go out and share what you have learned, knowing that our efforts today shape tomorrow's world." More information on the College’s award recipients can be found on the College’s Spring Celebration & Awards Night page .

The College celebrates excellence in academics and leadership

• Claus Tittiger, the College’s associate dean of academic affairs, addresses attendees before announcing the first set of award recipients.
• Event attendees applaud as winners are announced.
• Graduating seniors and graduate students, who received outstanding academic achievement awards from various departments in the College, pose for a group picture. (Left to right-R) Sara Harvey, Kelly McCready, Koby Lindberg, Belle (Angelica) Lodovico, Austin Baldridge, Monica Carey and Dean Trotta.
• Graduating seniors from various departments pose for a picture as they celebrate the culmination of their 4-year academic journey.
• Teresa Byington (center), who won the Outstanding Extension Researcher Award, is surrounded by her colleagues to commemorate her achievement.
• Monica Carey, a first-generation American and the recipient of the Outstanding Senior Award (Biotechnology), poses with her parents.
• Event organizers and College employees pose for a photo while others assist student participants with event registration.

Education & Public Service

University launches program to increase number of Nevada organic producers

Grow Organic Nevada aims to help meet increasing demand for organic products

College of Education & Human Development awarded OpenSciEd Research Community Seed Funding

Grant aims to develop teacher leaders to support and sustain equitable science teaching and learning

Nevada kicks off Wildfire Awareness Month with preparedness activities

Extension and partners team up to provide Nevadans with information and resources

University of Nevada, Reno Extension appoints new state leader for Nevada 4-H

Lindsay Chichester to foster growth of the youth development group

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Sagebrushers season 3 ep. 4: Associate Professor Thomas White

Geoffrey Blewitt elected to the National Academy of Sciences

Family-friendly casino areas contain unhealthy levels of second-hand smoke, new study finds

University of Nevada, Reno once again nationally recognized as a Voter Friendly Campus

The acknowledgment marks the University’s 5th year in a row to receive this title

Spring 2024 Senior Scholars

The University of Nevada, Reno honors twelve graduating students who have achieved the highest grade-point average for their respective college or school

University of Nevada, Reno to confer more than 3,000 degrees during May 2024 commencement

Five in-person ceremonies held Thursday through Saturday, May 16-18, on the University Quad

Big data, advancements in GPS and a search for dark matter earn the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology Professor of Geodesy the prestigious nomination

Reynolds School of Journalism students receive more than $178,000 in scholarships

Over 60 students were recognized at the annual Savitt Awards Banquet

Mechanical Engineering doctoral graduate receives Sam Lieberman Scholarship Award

Alessandro Ralls hopes to continue his career in the mechanical engineering field

Sigellac wins $50,000 Sontag Entrepreneurship Competition

Now in 13th year, competition generates an ecosystem of startups in northern Nevada

Faces of the Pack: Jesus Diaz Sanchez

Diaz Sanchez received an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, will pursue a Ph.D. at MIT