Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science
Environmental science is the application of scientific information in order to solve conflicts resulting from humans’ use of our planet’s resources.
Through this interdisciplinary study, you will gain an understanding of the sustainability of natural systems and resources, the interrelationships between these systems, and the human impact on the environment.
An integrated approach
Our degree in environmental science is designed to provide you with the tools to critically examine environmental issues from a variety of perspectives.
Environmental science is an inherently interdisciplinary field, using and combining information from disciplines including biology, chemistry, geology, economics, political science, law, and ethics.
Customize your courses
Beyond the required foundational science courses, the program provides a broad range of science and humanities courses to select from, allowing you to tailor the program to your interests. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, which provides you with opportunities to actively engage in research.
Here are just a few of the courses you can choose to take that align with your own interests:
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Chemistry
- Invertebrate Paleontology
- Field Studies in Water Resources
- Geophysics
- Environmental Ethics
- Economics of the Environment
- Environmental Law and Policy
Programs
Offered as a major (BS).
Popular Minor Pairings
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Students in Intro to Environmental Science with Robert Dull, PhD, had the opportunity to learn about conserving biodiversity and saving species on a trip to Santa Cruz Island in our local Channel Island National Park.
I think my classmates benefitted from the experience of being able to see and give living examples of the creatures they are covering in class.
Kira Shimamura’25
The enthusiasm and passion demonstrated by my students towards tackling important issues related to climate change inspires and motivates me on a daily basis.
Megan Fung
Assistant Professor
Many students who obtain the B.S. degree in environmental science are planning careers in environmental protection and management, risk assessment, environmental law, or education. The program also prepares students to pursue graduate studies in various environmental fields.
Our alumni study at:
- Arizona State University
- California Lutheran University
- Evergreen State College
- Tufts University
- University of East Anglia
- Western Washington/Southern Oregon
Our alumni work for:
- Baxter International
- Chevron Environmental Management Company
- Klamath Bird Observatory
- Law Offices of Kempur & Kempur
- Pacific Disaster Center
- Sea World San Diego
- U.S. Forest Service
- Andersen Environmental
- Sierra Club
Career paths:
- Law Office Assistant
- Education Counselor
- U.S. Forest Service Assistant
- Environmental Field Technician
- Water Resource Educator
- Non-Profit Regional Organizer
- Manufacturing Technician
of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months
Take a wide variety of classes. You might not know what you will actually use once you graduate and you might even be surprised as to what knowledge gives you the upper hand against others wanting the same job. Study abroad and take environmental classes! I can’t say how much it helped to see how another country deals with the same issues we have and how different the approaches are.
Chelsea Fletcher '13
Environmental Science Major
Environmental Scientist at California State Parks, Outreach Coordinator at University of Southern California
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Let us know and we'll send you information about our academics, campus life, admission process, and more!