Introduction

The Environmental Science program promotes the development of problem-solving skills, a broad and solid scientific knowledge base, and it teaches effective team collaboration, because the understanding of and solutions to environmental issues often involve expertise in many scientific areas such as geology, hydrology, biology, chemistry, physics, as well as environmental policy. Team skills, including leadership abilities, are vital to the environmental scientist and are an integral part of the new Environmental Science major. The program will produce graduates who are committed to civic engagement and are qualified for employment with industry, governmental regulatory agencies, environmental consulting firms, and graduate study in Environmental Science or related fields.

Program Benefits

As an Environmental Science major, your coursework will involve hands-on lab and field activities, with field work and exposure to environmental issues in our local community. Field trip destinations regularly include Gompers Park, the Chicago River, the North Shore Channel, LaBagh Woods and other Forest Preserves, and North Park Village Nature Center, among others.

A hallmark of the Environmental Science program is that it is interdisciplinary, with faculty from multiple departments contributing ideas and expertise. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself analyzing water samples, surveying for native invertebrates, and modeling energy fluxes all in the same week.

Career Options

The B.S. in Environmental Science prepares you for public and private sectors careers such as:

  • Water quality specialist for a community water treatment facility
  • Environmental consultant for private engineering firm, cleaning up contaminated water
  • Environmental regulator at a state or federal protection agency, enforcing environmental laws
  • Emergency responder for hazardous materials spills
  • Consultant on sustainable energy alternatives
  • Environmental lawyer for a private law firm or a government agency
  • Hydrologist helping design flood protection strategies

For more detailed career information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.

 

Academic Catalog Information

Take a closer look at the bachelor's degree in Environmental Science and the courses offered toward the degree.

Environmental Science, B.S.

Department and Contact Information

If you are interested in the program or have questions, please contact Physics.

Environmental Science Homepage

About Northeastern

Northeastern Illinois University is home to students from all corners of the world and is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the nation. Our small class sizes, flexible schedules and dedicated faculty can help you succeed in your studies.

We offer an education with value.

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