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WCU Program: Environmental Science

Environmental Science

Part of: Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

Offered as: Minor, Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Science

Related Areas of Study: Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics

Part of: Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

Offered as: Minor, Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Science

Related Areas of Study: Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics

Fieldwork, research, and real impact.

The Environmental Science major is a cross-disciplinary science degree that will prepare you for graduate school or jobs in environmental science, hydrology, and environmental management. The Environmental Science minor is a great way to round out your degree with a stronger, more diverse scientific emphasis in biology, chemistry, geology, physics, math, and environmental management. Through our connections to natural resource agencies, frequent outdoor field trips, and varied internship opportunities, you’ll develop a wide range of technical research skills and a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues.

Academic Opportunities

  • Holding an aquatic net, a student wades through knee-deep water upstream in the Taylor River with fall colors and the canyon in the background.

    River Studies & Leadership Certificate

    Students dive into the science and stewardship of rivers, gaining hands-on experience in fieldwork, conservation, and water resource management.
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  • Graduate student wearing a cowboy hat standing on Verzuh Ranch wetlands with cattle behind him

    Verzuh Ranch

    Offering hands-on academic experiences in sustainability, agriculture, and environmental sciences at Western.
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Environmental Science Requirements

Major Emphasis
Minor

A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor. By tailoring your coursework, a major emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

A minor complements your major by allowing you to explore a secondary field of interest. It requires fewer courses than a major, making it a flexible way to broaden your knowledge, diversify your skills, or pursue a personal passion alongside your primary area of study.

Program Requirements

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

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

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

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

Explore Scholarships
1

Top Skills

Communication
Critical Thinking
Geography
Management
Problem Solving
Research

2

Career Pathways

Biofuels Production Manager
Chief Sustainability Officer
Environmental Economist
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Scientist or Specialist
Hydroelectric Production Manager

Latest News

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Faculty & Staff

Hannah M. Carroll, PhD

Assistant Professor of Environmental Science and Ecology

Jonathan Coop, PhD

Professor of Environment and Sustainability

David W. Marchetti, PhD

Professor of Geology

Anne W. Ryter, PhD

Professor of Chemistry; Chair of Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

Jarral W. Ryter, MS

Senior Lecturer in Chemistry

Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

Department Chairperson

  • Anne W. Ryter

  • Professor of Chemistry; Chair of Natural & Environmental Sciences Department

Administrative Assistant

  • Lori Clement

  • Natural & Environmental Sciences Department Administrative Assistant

Contact Information

970.943.2015
aryter@western.edu

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Hurst Hall 128
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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