Environmental Science Major
About the Environmental Science Program
Â鶹ɫÇéƬ’s interdisciplinary Environmental Science program (with B.A., B.S. degree and minor options) integrates ecology, earth science, chemistry, data science, and sociocultural dimensions to help students develop a holistic, systems-based understanding of environmental patterns and processes, especially as they influence and are influenced by humans. With foundational courses and more than 20 upper-level elective courses in areas such as hydrology, soil ecology, GIS, and marine ecology, students investigate environmental issues and how to apply scientific knowledge to inform evidence-based decision making.
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Powerful Combinations in Environmental Science
Many Â鶹ɫÇéƬ environmental science majors complete a second major or minor in complementary fields including biology, chemistry, math, secondary education, and sustainability studies. Some students have also pursued unique combinations of study by taking courses for a second major or minor in psychology, public health, dance, and graphic design which can also provide valuable perspectives about how we perceive and respond to environmental challenges.
This program is coordinated by the
Career Preparation and Student-Centered Research
Environmental Science students will be prepared for careers in research, environmental management and consulting, non-profit organizations, government agencies, policymaking, and education, among others. Our graduates make differences in their communities through effective communication and stakeholder engagement to address issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, and environmental health.
Both in and outside of courses, basic and applied research are cornerstones of environmental science. Beginning in introductory courses, Â鶹ɫÇéƬ students gather and analyze data to develop quantitative thinking skills and science literacy. Upper-level courses and summer research experiences deepen research experiences through literature, field, and laboratory investigations, many of which are student-chosen and presented as part of classes and professional meetings.
Â鶹ɫÇéƬ’s coastal campus, situated in beautiful southern New England, serves as a natural laboratory for coursework and research projects. Located just a few hundred yards from Narragansett Bay, the Marine and Natural Sciences (MNS) building provides our students and faculty with opportunities to explore the environmental patterns and processes in wetlands, forests, old fields, and coastal ecosystems.Local field trips and fieldwork are complemented by our laboratory facilities and resources.
Coursework and research are supported by Â鶹ɫÇéƬ’s Wet Lab, Shellfish Hatchery and Farm, Aquatic Diagnostic Laboratory, and greenhouse. In the introductory oceanography course, students explore the Narragansett Bay on board Â鶹ɫÇéƬ’s research boat, the InVinceable Spirit, by collecting samples for water quality testing and biological communities, and can be back on campus in time for their next class.
Faculty Experts in Environmental Science
Environmental Science Degree Requirements
Minor in Sustainability StudiesÂ
Sustainability Studies at Â鶹ɫÇéƬ is all about seeking solutions to the Earth’s most pressing problems. By combining ideas from a variety of disciplines — from science and humanities to business, engineering and architecture — you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the complex relationships among environmental, social and economic issues that will help guide your decision-making in your career and as a 21st century citizen.
Research Opportunities in Environmental Science
The Environmental Science major at Roger Williams is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with an understanding of environmental processes and issues and an awareness of our role as humans within the environment. Undergraduate research is integrated into the Environmental Science curriculum, with opportunities for students to earn academic credit for doing research, to develop proposals and compete for small grants to fund their projects, and to present their findings at regional, national and international conferences. Our faculty have mentored student research in many areas, including water circulation patterns in Narragansett Bay, effects of urban landscapes on soil biodiversity, trophic ecology of jellyfish, and sediment analyses of Narragansett Bay.
Internships and Field Experience
Environmental Science students can earn college credit for their major by completing an internship. Our students have worked at leading environmental research agencies and advocacy organizations such as the Nature Conservancy, Save The Bay, World Wildlife Fund, R.I. Department of Environmental Management, and the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.
Hear from Hawks
"I did research at Roger doing water quality testing of the bay water. I was sampling water using professional methods and learned different ways of testing. That turned into an interest in water quality."
Sean Nugent '20
Water Quality Technician at SafeWell in Bolton, Mass.
Study AbroadÂ
Study Environmental Science in one of our short-term off-campus programs in Belize, Panama, and Yellowstone National Park. Students can also spend a full semester abroad at partner institutions in New Zealand and Australia.
Statistics
Placement of 2022 Grads
Our 2022 graduates found success in employment or in graduate school within 6 months of graduation.
Real World Opportunities
Biology and Environmental Science students participate in community-engaged projects and internships during their undergraduate, studies, giving them the skills and diverse experiences that are most desirable for employers and graduate school admission.
Hands-On Research
Each academic year, over 80 students conduct research with faculty and/or care for organisms in our labs. Students are encouraged to participate in research opportunities starting in their first year.