Majors at the University of Connecticut
Environmental Science
Environmental Science is the study of the world's natural habitat and how human beings effect it, as well as how changes in human behavior can benefit the earth. The Environmental Science major is based on a combination of physical and biological sciences and also includes selected areas of social sciences. The program includes the studying of environmental problems with not only a scientific background, but also with detailed analyses of the social and economic implications of environmental issues. The major is offered as interdisciplinary program through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. All Environmental Students, regardless of the college through which they enter the University, will complete the same series of basic and introductory environmental science courses during their first two years. After the completion of their sophomore year, students in the major will select one of nine environmental science concentration areas. Through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, students are able to concentrate in Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geography, Environmental Geoscience, or Marine Science. Students are also able to concentrate in Environmental Health, Natural Resources, Resource Economics, or Soil Science concentrations through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The student's coursework for their final two years of study are determined in cooperation with a faculty advisor from the department affiliated with their chosen concentration area, preparing the student for a career in a specific aspect of the environmental science field.
Academic Department
Nature of Work
Environmental scientists study the history, makeup, and characteristics of the atmosphere, surface, and core of the earth. This field involves a lot of research as well as the ability to apply information gained in a practical manner. Topics that are commonly focused on in environmental science are ocean pollution levels, endangered species, deforestation, hazardous waste, global climate change, and acid deposition. More importantly, it focuses on the scientific reasons for all of the environmental changes that take place of the earth. It is important to understand these issues as a means for improving the quality of life. In order to do so, it is also important to understand the scientific processes and principles of the natural environment.
Sample Job Titles
- Quality Assurance Technician
- Environmental Scientist
- Industrial Environmental Manager
- Toxicologist
- Earth Scientist
- Agronomist
- Grassroots Coordinator
- Soil Scientist
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- Environmental Health and Safety Project Manager
- Risk Assessment Specialist
- Environmental Planner
- Hazardous Materials Specialist
- Environmental Protection Specialist
- Industrial Hygienist
- Safety Engineer
- Water Quality Technologist
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Potential Employers
There are a wide variety of industries where environmental science jobs can be found. Such industries include the federal and state government, colleges/universities and schools, science museums, research companies, local activists groups, environmental agencies, consulting firms, and newspapers/periodicals.
Useful Skills
In order to be successful in the field of environmental science, it is important to have a strong knowledge of biology, geography, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. In addition, it is necessary to be up to date with all environmental issues concerning the earth. Along with being up to date on environmental issues, it is also important to keep current on computer technology advancement, as well as having a strong background in data analysis.
Getting Experience
Participation in internships or field experience placements is important for gaining hands on training. In addition to the skills learned in the classroom, reading the newspaper and other environmental related magazines are good ways to gain knowledge about current environmental issues. Any type of activity that involves being active within the environment can be helpful as well.
Employment Opportunities
The employment opportunities for those pursuing a career in environmental science are very diverse and are expanding everyday. As life and technology become more complex, companies and the government will strive to produce safer products and minimize public health risks. Currently, the number of environmental clean up projects continues to grow as well. Over the past ten years, the number of environmental remediation projects has risen dramatically. Those with a strong background in environmental science will be among the most actively recruited workers as the career possibilities continue to emerge.
Internet Links
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