Bachelor’s in Environmental Science

Open up a world of opportunities as an environmental scientist, geologist or other ecology-related professional with this Environmental Science bachelor degree.

Degree concentrations offer you the flexibility to focus on specific content areas in the environmental sector, leading to a variety of post-baccalaureate opportunities.

Are you a scientific thinker who appreciates the diversity and complexity of our natural world? Are you passionate about using your talents to make valuable contributions to local, regional, national and international improvements in health, environment and technology. PennWest’s Environmental Science undergraduate degree will get you on your way.

Experienced professors become your mentors as you learn to apply knowledge from many fields to study the management of the environment. This interdisciplinary program offers broad core courses in biology and ecology, supplemented with topics in the Earth sciences, chemistry, physics and mathematics and extensive hands-on learning opportunities.

Almost all courses include a laboratory portion where you will study the practical application of the science, learn about the appropriate scientific technology and instruments and learn the biology and management of various organisms.  Through various methods such as gathering information and data, considering values and exploring consequences, you will acquire the tools you need to effectively evaluate information about environmental issues and make informed decisions.

You’ll graduate with a career advantage and be ready to make valuable contributions as an ethical citizen of the world.

View program details

Credits: 120

Contact:
Chadwick Hanna
hanna@pennwest.edu
724-938-5989

$76,500

Median annual wage for environmental scientists in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Hands-on Learning

Laboratory, field and internship experiences help build your skills and create professional networking opportunities.

Interdisciplinary Center for Environmental Studies (ICES)

This unique center creates, builds and facilitates environmental programs that bring students, faculty and community members together.

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Locations
Communication (no concentration)
Professional Geology
Sustainability and Climate Science
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Concentrations

Professional Geology
Sustainability and Climate Science

Careers and Salaries

As the public becomes more aware of hazards to our environment, there will continue to be a need for dedicated environmental scientists to identify, abate or eliminate sources of pollutants or other threats to the environment and the health of the population. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 7,800 environmental scientists will be hired every year for the next decade. Some will work in laboratories and offices for federal, state and local governments, consulting firms and nonprofit organizations, while others may spend time in the field gathering data and monitoring environmental conditions.

Program Outcomes

  1. Students will describe and explain the content knowledge of environmental sciences through its fundamental theories, terminology, and principles with particular emphasis on topics of relevance to understanding and solving environmental problems.
  2. Students will use the scientific method to develop hypotheses, and design and conduct laboratory or field research that addresses the environmentally related question(s) under investigation.
  3. Students will critically review, synthesize, interpret, and assess scientific data using a variety of methods and tools.
  4. Students will access, assess, and use available sources of information (including primary sources and databases) related to environmental sciences.
  5. Students will synthesize information and use written and oral skills to effectively communicate with environmental science professionals and the general public.
  6. Students will be able to recognize social and ethical issues related to the environment.

The Power of PennWest

PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.

Flexible. Affordable.
Designed to Meet Your needs.