Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

Broad Preparation — You will tailor your major based on your professional interests and goals by working with your environmental science academic adviser. We emphasize five core areas of development for all of our students in the program: content knowledge, the scientific process, the nature of science, critical thinking, and stewardship, exposing you to a broad biological background.

Big Opportunities — Cedarville is uniquely positioned to offer a “big university” curriculum and experiences while retaining a small school feel, where your professor and adviser know you personally. Cedarville University is a sustaining partner of Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies that widens the scope of our curriculum. Several travel study/study abroad options are also available.

Field-Based Experience — You’ll get hands-on experience using state-of-the-art equipment for field and lab applications. You’ll also benefit from dedicated labs for each specialty area as well as a wide variety of "field labs," including a 40-acre Prairie Restoration, Wetland Restoration, Cedar Lake, and  The Campus Arboretum. Most upper-level courses include an extended field trip to study unique ecosystems such as coastal marshes, sand dunes, and diverse forests.

There is a wide variety of professional opportunities for environmental science majors, as “environmental science” covers so many professions. About half of our graduates work in a government agency (from local to federal), and the other half work in private industry or environmental education. About one-third of our graduates have gone on to graduate studies, and all that pursued this option have been accepted and are working toward, or have completed, their graduate degree.

The most commonly pursued career paths have been field ecologists, wildlife biologists, park naturalists and educators, environmental scientists in industry, various positions in museums and zoos, and graduate school.

Graduate and professional programs and employers welcome Cedarville University graduates each year. It is important to note that some professional career fields you may pursue require additional education, experience, and/or licensure beyond the completion of your Cedarville University undergraduate degree.

Student Organizations — Student organizations allow you to meet with like-minded fellow students and professionals.

• Pro Terra Forma: A campus-wide group for students interested in environmental stewardship, conservation, and outdoor recreation.
• Omega Tau Kappa: For students interested in environmental science education.
• Great and Small is for students who are interested in veterinary medicine. This student-run organization helps students prepare for advanced education in the veterinary field.
• Biology Club is for students interested in any aspect of biology. This student-run organization emphasizes networking and community service.

Global Outreach (GO) — At Cedarville we know that spiritual and physical needs of the world are great. Missionary kids are strongly represented in our program, as they have seen these needs firsthand. Many of our students have pursued training in the sciences (agriculture, soil, and water) as well as courses in missions in anticipation of serving abroad. Dr. Mark Gathany has led student teams to the Peruvian Andes to distribute newly translated Quechuan Bibles as well as to Swaziland on a medical missions trip. We also have developed relationships with environmental missions representatives Wycliffe, Samaritan’s Purse, and Christar for students to make connections with and serve.

Building on your core liberal arts and Bible minor courses, you will complete a core set of environmental science courses.  This sequence includes courses in biology, geology, and environmental science. Your core coursework will prepare and direct you to select a track of study such as animal and wildlife biology, plant and agricultural science, molecular ecology, geology, geospatial, or an interdisciplinary track with the intent of preparing you for your next vocational step.

Sample courses:

• Environment: Science, Sustainability, and Stewardship
  
• Principles of Geographic Information Systems