Environmental Science Concentration

Environmental Science Concentration

Through a combination of classroom, field, and laboratory experiences, students will become proficient in the theory and practice of environmental investigations. Graduates will be qualified for entry-level positions in environmental organizations within the scientific, industrial, and consulting sectors and will have a solid basis for continued study in graduate school.

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Natural Sciences and Mathematics 
with a Concentration in Environmental Science

Required courses: General Biology I, II (BI 103-104), Microbiology (BI 202), Ecology (BI 306), General Chemistry I, II (CH 103-104), Analytical Chemistry (CH 203), Introduction to Environmental Science (ENV 101), Basic Organic Chemistry (CH 200), Environmental Field Studies (ENV 201-202), Undergraduate Research in Environmental Science I, II (ENV 450-451), College Algebra (MT 102), Probability and Statistics (MT 205) and 12 additional credit-hours in environmental science electives.

Related courses: 12 credits selected from Principles of Economics I (BU 221), Principles of Economics II (BU 222), Introduction to Computer Science (CS 110), Data Base Management (CS 290), Environmental Ethics*, American Government (PSC 102), Public Policy*, Introduction to Sociology (SO 101), and Dynamics of Urban Society (SO 407).

* proposed course

ENV 100/CH 100

A World View of Environmental Issues - 1 credit

This course is designed to provide the student with a scientific understanding of important real world environmental issues. Dialogue will focus on such issues as nuclear power, and the greenhouse effect, including society’s attempt to address these issues through legislation. The influence of human activities on the environment will be stressed. The interrelationships of various scientific concepts will be considered. (Fall)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of all developmental course requirements or permission of the instructor. Note: This course cannot be applied towards the course requirements of the Biology degree, or the concentrations in either General Science or Environmental Science. 

ENV 101 

Introduction to Environmental Science - 3 credits

A study of the scientific principles that relate to the human impact on the biosphere.  Major focus is on issues of population, resource use and pollution. (Spring)

Prerequisite: Completion of all developmental deficiencies.

ENV 201-202

Environmental Field Studies I, II - 4,4 credits

This course introduces students to a variety of areas of field studies that are commonly performed or evaluated by environmental sciences professionals. Students will be exposed to the technical and regulatory basis for field studies, sampling protocols and equipment, and interpretation of data. Site visits, field sampling and report writing will be important features of this class. A significant amount of time will be spent outdoors at off-campus field sites. (as needed)

Prerequisite: ENV 101 or permission of instructor.

ENV 203-204

Flora and Fauna of the Northeast I, II - 4,4 credits

This course introduces students to the dominant and important plants and animal species commonly found in a variety of terrestrial and aquatic landscapes throughout the northeastern United States, with an emphasis on vertebrates and vascular plants. Students will gain experience with various methods of field identification, and will be exposed to a variety of field sampling and management techniques. (as needed)

Prerequisite for ENV 203: Successful completion of  BIO 103-104  or permission of instructor.

Prerequisite for ENV 204: Successful completion of ENV 203.

ENV 300

Hazardous Waste Regulation and Management - 3 credits

An in-depth study of federal, state and local regulations governing hazardous waste in New Jersey. Students will gain an understanding of the myriad of regulations, and familiarity with management techniques used in the field. (as needed)

Prerequisite: ENV 101, 201-202 or permission of instructor.; also EN 101-102.

ENV 450 & 451

Undergraduate Research in Environmental Science I, II  -  2,2  credits

This capstone experience permits the student to pursue an individually designed research project under faculty supervision. The student will investigate a problem through library and laboratory/field research. Each student must submit an oral and written report at the close of the semester in which ENV SCI 451 is taken.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor and approval of a proposal submitted to the selected mentor during the previous semester. (as needed)