The Environmental Science curriculum prepares students for surprisingly abundant jobs in the Fort Wayne area and those far afield. USF has many options including this Associates of Arts degree, minors in Environmental Studies or Environmental Science. Three concentrations exist within the bachelor of science: the Liberal Arts concentration, which balances courses in biology, chemistry, and Earth science; the Conservation Biology concentration, which trains students in field biology and working with rare species; and the Sustainable Food Systems concentration, an interdisciplinary concentration that provides students with a foundation in ecological principals, an understanding of food systems, and opportunities to develop skills in sustainable and urban farming practices. A related major that USF offers is Environmental Health and Safety.
Jobs in the local area are especially abundant for work in environmental compliance, health, and safety. Jobs near and far can be found in climate change, laboratory analysis, water quality, environmental education, park and refuge work, environmental law, retail, small business, farming, forestry, research, restoration, limnology, solid waste management, community organizing, city planning, emergency response, hazardous materials, and a myriad of other possibilities.
Opportunities are available with private industries, consulting firms, universities and schools at all levels, nature centers, zoos and gardens, churches, federal, state, and local governments, non-profits, and businesses of all sizes. Faculty will help students build a robust portfolio of skills and experiences in paid internships, service, research, and campus eco activities. An internship is required.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students are proficient in critical, analytical, and integrative thinking in the sciences
- Students use the scientific method to conduct hypothesis-driven research or complete a science-based service project
- Students demonstrate global consciousness, social responsibility, and ethical awareness in the pursuit of science
- Students demonstrate leadership and the ability to work in teams
- Students are proficient presenting scientific information in oral and written form
- Students demonstrate knowledge of the major concepts and principles of biology
- Students are confident, satisfied, and well-prepared to undertake careers in the environmental sciences
Degree Requirements
The B.S. in Environmental Science requires 128 credit hours:
- 36-37 credit hours of Franciscan Core general education courses
- 39 credit hours of prescribed core courses in biology, chemistry, and physics
- Completion of one of the concentrations below
- Conservation Biology
- Liberal Arts
- Sustainable Foods
- Electives as needed
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