Long-term sustainability continues to become a top priority at both individual and organizational levels– from our homes to commerce, agriculture and the government. Environmental and sustainability students will examine environmental and sustainability challenges from all angles – how they arise, are represented, researched, managed and prevented. Coursework may include studies in environmental science, data analysis, agriculture, sustainability and society and environmental policy. Students can look forward to affecting positive change for environmental sustainability through careers in environmental science, social responsibility, parks and recreation management, the non-profit sector and government agencies.

Bioenergy and Environmental science students research and study the effects of both natural and unnatural processes and interactions on the natural world. Program graduates will be equipped to find and pursue sustainable solutions to pressing environmental issues. Their research and understanding will contribute to better long-term management of our planet’s resources.

Did you know that Earth is surrounded by a magnetic field that protects us from solar winds? This is just one of the many unique characteristics that makes our planet particularly suitable to sustain life. The study of geology and geophysics is centered around exploring all of Earth’s unique qualities—increasing our understanding of the composition, structure, history and processes. Such knowledge is vital to addressing societal needs and problems such as locating and characterizing energy, mineral and groundwater resources, assessing seismic and other geologic hazards and evaluating and remediating environmental contamination. Students pursuing this field of study will learn the foundations of chemistry, biology, physics and math with a specialization in plate tectonics, Earth materials, seismology and hydrology.

The significance of preserving natural resources and protecting the environment only continues to become more pressing – critical to ongoing survival. It is a complex dynamic in both using and preserving our natural resources for future generations. Students choosing natural resources and environmental science degrees will gain the interdisciplinary skills necessary to understand and make an impact on environmental preservation and natural resource management. Studies may include topics like air quality, waste management, hazardous materials, soil conservation and land reclamation. Students can look forward to pursuing careers in a variety of professional sectors, such as public policy, state and federal agencies, environmental law and scientific research.

The Earth and environmental sciences aspire to understand Earth’s dynamic history — how it “works” and documents its age and origin in rocks and landscapes; and how geological processes affect modern environmental and ecological systems. These studies provide vital perspectives into how Earth can simultaneously sustain and threaten life and influence human interaction. Students may study topics across geology, ecology, environmental science, climatology and environmental management. Program graduates are able to pursue careers in environmental policy and management, geospatial technology, meteorology, agriculture and government agencies.