Environmental Programs

Saint Michael’s College offers several options for students interested in studying topics of environmental concern in their academic programs. Students interested in careers or graduate study in the environmental sciences should consider majors with strong emphasis on the natural sciences. Students interested primarily in the social, economic and political aspects of environmental issues should consider the Environmental Studies Major or Environmental Studies Minor Several majors at Saint Michael’s provide gateways to careers in the environmental sciences. For example, students with a strong interest in ecology, or the study of animals or plants, may wish to choose the environmental biology option within the Biology Major . Students interested in the biochemical effects of pollutants on living systems might wish to consider the Biochemistry Major Those with interests in monitoring and remediation of pollutants may wish to consider the Chemistry Major . Students interested in careers in pollution control technologies might consider the Engineering: Saint Michael’s — Clarkson University Program or Engineering: Saint Michael’s — University of Vermont Dual Degree Program or Physics Major .

The Environmental Studies Major

Although environmental problems frequently are defined within the natural sciences, their underlying causes and ultimate solutions lie equally within the scope of the social sciences and humanities. Environmental issues, then, must not only be understood in terms of science; they must also be recognized as the product of a complex mix of national and international social, cultural, economic and political forces. Our environmental studies curriculum, therefore, provides an interdisciplinary academic framework based upon the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The curriculum is also meant not to be restricted to problem solving, but rather to incorporate observation, appreciation, spirituality, and examination of nature and the relationship of humans with the environment. Students build upon this holistic framework to shape their own investigations into pressing domestic and global environmental problems, to gain insights into their relationship with nature and their role in the creation of a more sustainable world.

The Environmental Science Major

In addition, Saint Michael’s offers an interdisciplinary Environmental Science Major, which is intended primarily to produce scientists well-grounded in the biological and physical sciences and who are capable of addressing environmental issues through analytical laboratory and field studies.

The Environmental Biology track within the Biology Major

This is the best choice for students with interests in ecology and conservation biology. This track involves extensive fieldwork with plants and animals, as well as training in the theoretical basis for conservation biology.

The Chemistry Major

This is the most appropriate choice for students interested in monitoring and remediation of air, soil, and water pollution. Students learn to do analytical laboratory work and are trained in its theoretical basis.

The Environmental Studies Minor

This minor serves the needs of students who are primarily interested in the social and political aspects of environmental issues. The minor may be combined with any major, including biology, chemistry and physics majors, but with the exception of the environmental science major.