B.S. in Environmental Science
The Environmental Science major is for those students whose interest in the environment has a more scientific focus. The program is designed to prepare students to enter the field with the skills environmental professionals use in the workplace through opportunities such as a community-based research project and a required internship.
There are two concentrations to select from in this major: terrestrial and aquatic. The Aquatic concentration has a stronger chemistry component while the Terrestrial concentration focuses more on conservation biology. Both concentrations take full advantage of the environment surrounding Colby-Sawyer. The region's many lakes and rivers, forests and mountain ranges allow students to conduct field research where they live.
Environmental Science majors are not required to select a minor.
Facilities and Resources…
The Environmental Studies Department offers stationary and mobile lab equipment for air, water and soil testing. The department is housed in the new Curtis L. Ivey Science Center, with extensive space for laboratories, classrooms and technology including GIS.
Community Based Projects…
The comunity based project is the defining characteristic of the Environmental Studies and Environmental Science majors. In addition to traditional classroom and laboratory exercises, students are immersed in an in-depth, year-long analysis of a local environmental problem or issue.
Field Studies…
Colby-Sawyer College offers field studies courses and has an affiliation agreement with the School for Field Studies for an international experience.
Capstone Project
Colby-Sawyer seniors complete a Capstone project, a culmination of work in their fields of study that allows them to demonstrate a deep understanding of a body of knowledge and perspectives informed by that knowledge.
Environmental Science majors complete an independent research project in an area relevant to the study of community and environment. Students learn to develop a research question, become familiar with quantitative and qualitative research methods, and write a literature review and a research proposal. Visit My Capstone Experience to learn more about student Capstones.
Additional Curricula Opportunities…
Students interested in law, medicine and veterinary practice can combine their major with a course of study to prepare for the next academic step.
