Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

With the Anthracite mountains seen in the background, a student walks down a dirt road sweeping with a butterfly net.

Some of the most complex and urgent issues of the 21st century involve how we interact with our environment and approach our health. These challenges range from addressing rising global temperatures to preparing for the potential of future pandemics. Resolving these challenges requires a new generation of leaders with expertise in natural and environmental sciences.

At Western Colorado University, you’ll apply what you learned in the classroom to real-world situations. From Anthropology students excavating Mayan artifacts in Belize to Geology students coring sediment from lakes to analyze paleoclimate data, you’ll gain significant field experience in your natural science classes.

Hands-On Opportunities

Verzuh Ranch

Offering hands-on academic experiences in sustainability, agriculture, and environmental sciences at Western.
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Areas of Study

“Being an orientation leader and having that leadership position helped me branch out to try these other things. It gave me the confidence to express myself as a leader and learn what kind of leader I am. And then be able to use that leadership in other aspects.”

Ryan Barnhouse

Biology, Chemistry, Exercise and Sport Science

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado Foundation offers scholarships specifically for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

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General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

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Department News

Western Alum Ross McGee Named Colorado’s Top Game Warden for 2025

Long before Ross McGee (’13) won the most prestigious honor in Colorado wildlife management, he was a kid who knew just what he wanted. For…
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Western’s Nursing Education Program Builds Momentum with New Director, Grant

Western Colorado University’s new Nursing Education Program is gaining momentum this spring, with major funding support and a new director. Program receives new grant The…
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Western Students Take First, Third for Posters at Research Conference

Recognition at a regional conference provides important networking opportunities. Western Colorado University is proud to announce that its Gamma Chapter of the TriBeta Biology Honor…
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New Scholarship Fund Memorializes Alumnus, Supports Western’s Aspiring Geologists

Western Colorado University is proud to announce the Gary Christopher Memorial Geology Scholarship, started as a testament to a remarkable alumnus and a lifelong student…
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Erik Rathmann: Western’s Sustainability Hero

I honestly don’t know what we would do without him -Jason Grosse, Custodial Supervisor When Erik Rathmann was called to Western’s South Conference Room in…
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Scholarship Paves Way for STEM Student Success

The cost of obtaining a four-year degree in science and technical fields can be daunting. Now, through a generous donation, Western Colorado University is removing…
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Geology Professors Break New Ground with Desert Paleoclimate Archives

When earth scientists try to understand past climates they often look to lakes, ice cores or ocean sediments. These deposits have clear, easily identifiable layers…
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Finding the Right University: Kinlee Whitney

Sometimes, where you start is not always where you finish. For Western Colorado University senior, Kinlee Whitney, this was the case for her college education.…
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