B.A. ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Environmental studies is a multi-disciplinary, problem-oriented major designed to give students knowledge of and solutions to environmental problems. Program majors focus on one of two areas: environmental interpretation/education or the broader area of environmental planning/management. Graduates are prepared to become environmental professionals in positions such as naturalists with parks and other outdoor organizations and environmental educators in camps and social service agencies. Other career options include preparation for employment in areas of environmental planning and management such as: water resources; solid waste; natural areas and ecological restoration; international resource development; and environmental policy and administration. Additional concentrations can be arranged. For an undergraduate handbook, call the department at (773) 442-5640 or print the handbook from these web pages.
Program Objectives (approved 1991)
Students are expected to develop ...
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knowledge drawn from the natural sciences concerning structure, function,
and effect of change in ecosystems; from the social sciences concerning
factors that affect natural systems such as population pressures, pollution,
resource
e utilization, and depletion; from the humanities concerning the relationships
of ethics and values to environmental attitudes and behaviors
- knowledge of interrelationships involving economics, politics, and perceptions
in environmental decision making
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knowledge related to causes of environmental deterioration and constructive
efforts to deal with environmental problems in an historical and contemporary
context
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the ability to acquire information through field observations, interviews,
and surveys, as well as from maps, aerial photographs, satellite imagery, computerized
information, and a variety of other prepared sources
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analytical skills to process information derived from the above sources
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the ability to prepare effective oral, written, and graphic presentations
- the ability to apply relevant theoretical perspectives to actual environmental problems
(The credit hours beyond the core are approved courses geared toward environmental specialties. Since these specialties vary (e.g., water or air quality, environmental interpretation, open space planning, energy management, etc.) programs are tailored individually for students. Thus, in addition to the above objectives, students are expected to acquire specialized knowledge and skills related to concentrations in the program).