Program Details
Program Details
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Program Details

BS in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability

Bachelor of Science
University of Lynchburg

The environmental sciences and sustainability major is an interdisciplinary program for students wishing to pursue careers in environmental sciences and sustainability. Students prepare to become foresters, wildlife or aquatic ecologists, geologists, meteorologists, GIS technicians, sustainability or conservation officers, environmental lawyers, and educators. Potential employers include government agencies, commercial environmental laboratories, private consulting and law firms, non-profit environmental organizations, and teaching institutions. Graduate studies in the sciences are also possible. A key component of the environmental science program is the ability to work closely with professors, as well as with professionals from the community. Diverse learning opportunities are available in the classroom, the laboratory, in the field, and abroad. Our students develop critical thinking and sound scientific reasoning abilities, as well as a general awareness of the physical and biological factors at work in the environment. Additionally, they can engage in a research project or an internship that integrates training into an analysis of an environmental problem or an applied issue.


Program Overview & Guidance
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Program Web Page
External Link
Delivery Mode
In-Person
Check Course Schedules
Delivery Mode
Online
Check Course Schedules
Delivery Mode
Hybrid
Check Course Schedules
Program Guidance Element What You Need to Know
Considerations for Selecting Degree
Considerations When Selecting Courses

  • Create a schedule for all required courses, pay attention to prerequisites and when courses are offered, complete your first math and English courses in your first year
  • Connect with an advisor at your community college and University of Lynchburg within your first year via College Connect
Program Requirements Beyond Specific Courses
Doing More With Your Degree
Program Successes & Highlights
Program Credit Requirements
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Please look above to see if a Transfer Guide is available for this program. lf you are a current Virginia Community College student or are planning to start at a Virginia Community College before transferring to this institution and program, please follow the Transfer Guide to plan your courses at the community college.

The table below provides the requirements to complete this program if you are not following a Transfer Guide. If you have an account and have created a Portfolio, the table includes the "Applied Credits" column. This column shows how the credits you earned based on the experiences you entered may be applied to satisfy these requirements. You can find schools where you can take courses that will transfer and apply to this degree using the Where Can I Find An Equivalent Course feature in the Transfer Tools menu.

The program map provided below is an estimate based on courses identified as a result of reviewing your portfolio and the requirements for the selected program.

A formal determination of credits awarded for your prior learning and their applicability to the degree requirements can only be made by the institution. The formal determination and resulting map may reflect higher or lower number of credits to be completed to achieve this program.
Requirements
Required Credits
BS in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
120
Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
120
This requires a minimum GPA of 2
AND
Transfer credits will be evaluated, and as applicable, up to 90 credits may be applied to this program.
University DELL Requirements
31
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
Please Note: A course used in one area of study cannot be used in any other areas of study within the DELL curriculum. Each course will only count in one area of study.
CORE Requirements - COMM
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Course:
CORE Requirements - ENG
3
Complete courses from the following Course:
AND
A minimum grade of C- must be earned for courses in this requirement.
CORE Requirements - DELL Seminars
6
First year or Transfer Seminar
3
First Year Seminar
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Transfer Seminar
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Senior Seminar
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Fine Arts and Humanities
6
Earn 6 credits by completing courses from the following Category:
Language and Intercultural Competence
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Category:
Quantitative Reasoning
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Category:
Scientific Literacy
4
Earn 4 credits by completing courses from the following Category:
Social Science Literacy
3
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Category:
Environmental Sciences and Sustainability Core
58
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
Take all of the following courses.
ENVS Core
31
Earn 31 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Chemistry Elective
4
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
select one from the following
Earn 4 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Ecology Elective
4
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
select one from the following
Earn 4 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Sustainability Elective
3
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
select one from the following
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Experiential Learning Reuquirement
3
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
select one from the following
Earn 3 credits by completing courses from the following Course list:
Additional Science Electives
6
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
select two from the following
Earn 6 credits: Complete the following
Earn 6 credits: Use the following rules
Complete courses from the following Subject list:
AND
Complete courses from the following Course list:
AND
Complete the following
Use the following rules
Course(s) of level 300
OR
Course(s) of level 300
OR
Course(s) of level 300
OR
Course(s) of level 400
OR
Course(s) of level 400
OR
Course(s) of level 400
ENVS Electives
11
Requirement Notes
Requirement Notes:
select 11-12 credits from the following
Earn 11 credits: Complete the following
Earn 11 credits: Use the following rules
Complete courses from the following Subject:
AND
Complete the following
Use the following rules
Course(s) of level 300
OR
Course(s) of level 400
General Electives
31
Earn 31 credits by completing any available course
Applicable Admissions Agreements
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The table below lists admissions agreements between University of Lynchburg and partner institutions that may guarantee admission to this program if you meet the required criteria. Click on the title name of the agreement to view a summary of those criteria.

Institution Name Type Title
Blue Ridge Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Central Virginia Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Danville Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Mountain Gateway Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Eastern Shore Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Germanna Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Brightpoint Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Laurel Ridge Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Mountain Empire Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
New River Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Northern Virginia Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Paul D. Camp Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Patrick & Henry Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Piedmont Virginia Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Rappahannock Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Southside Virginia Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Southwest Virginia Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Tidewater Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Virginia Peninsula Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Virginia Highlands Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Virginia Western Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg
Wytheville Community College GAA Guaranteed Admissions Agreement - Virginia Community College System and University of Lynchburg

You can view the full text of these Agreements in the Resource Center

What If I Have An Associate Degree Or Credit For Prior Learning?
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Transfer Guidance Element What You Need to Know
Associate Transfer Degree Completion Completion of a transferrable Associate's degree will award students credit for general education requirements except for the senior capstone course.

No distinction will be made by the University of Lynchburg regarding college courses applicable to the transfer-oriented associate degree that are taken through dual enrollment arrangements with high schools.
Completion of Associate Degree Concurrent with High School No distinction will be made by the University of Lynchburg regarding college courses applicable to the transfer-oriented associate degree that are taken through dual enrollment arrangements with high schools.
Credit for Prior Learning Credits awarded for transferrable courses with a grade of "C" or higher.
Did You Know That...
  • Completing your Associate transfer degree post-high school satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor's degree?
  • Exceeding 3 years or 90 credits at your community college means you may have exhausted your financial aid at that college and have limited your future financial aid at: University of Lynchburg
College Level Information
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Transfer Admission Application
External Link
Transfer Student Aid
External Link
Number of Transfer Students
90
Percent of Accepted Transfer Students
93%
College Fit Guidance What You Need to Know
Is This College Right For Me? Lynchburg is a nationally recognized private university where students gain a greater heart for humanity and a mindset of individual growth. Here, thought-provoking learning ignites change in each individual, and the world. We combine traditional classroom instruction with experiential learning and real-world applications bringing a hands-on, multi-faceted approach that serves our students best today and for the rest of their lives. We’re a tight-knit community that’s accepting and inviting. We’re socially responsible and active, and don’t hesitate to stand up and speak out for what’s just and right. Pride and belonging are important at Lynchburg.
Transfer Student Catalog Year Catalog year determind by first semester of enrollment
First Year Student Catalog Year Catalogue determined by first semester of enrollment
Applying for Guaranteed Admissions https://www.lynchburg.edu/undergraduate-admission/for-applicants/transfer-and-access-adult-student-guide/guaranteed-admission-for-vccs-associate-degrees/
Where Can This Degree Transfer
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This section displays degrees most closely related to this program and to which you may be able to transfer. So, you can use this list to find the next degree you can complete in your major. Please click the degree name to visit that program page.

Institution Title Degree Award Name Award Level Delivery Mode
Germanna Community CollegeAssociate of Arts & Sciences Degree in ScienceAssociateAssociate of Arts and Sciences2-YearIn-Person, Hybrid
Virginia Western Community CollegeAssociate of Science Degree in Integrated Environmental StudiesAssociateAssociate of Science2-YearIn-Person, Hybrid
Sweet Briar CollegeBachelor of Science in Environmental ScienceBachelorBachelor of Science4-YearIn-Person
Emory & Henry UniversityEnvironmental Studies: Science (BS)BachelorBachelor of Science4-YearIn-Person
Roanoke CollegeBachelor of Science in Environmental StudiesBachelorBachelor of Science4-YearIn-Person
Careers Where This Degree Applies
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O*Net Code Name Description Parent
19-2041.01Climate Change Policy AnalystsResearch and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations
13-1041.00Compliance OfficersExamine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for or conformity with laws and regulations governing contract compliance of licenses and permits, and perform other compliance and enforcement inspection and analysis activities not classified elsewhere.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
13-1041.06CoronersDirect activities such as autopsies, pathological and toxicological analyses, and inquests relating to the investigation of deaths occurring within a legal jurisdiction to determine cause of death or to fix responsibility for accidental, violent, or unexplained deaths.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
13-1041.08Customs BrokersPrepare customs documentation and ensure that shipments meet all applicable laws to facilitate the import and export of goods. Determine and track duties and taxes payable and process payments on behalf of client. Sign documents under a power of attorney. Represent clients in meetings with customs officials and apply for duty refunds and tariff reclassifications. Coordinate transportation and storage of imported goods.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
13-1041.01Environmental Compliance InspectorsInspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
19-2041.02Environmental Restoration PlannersCollaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management.Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations
25-1053.00Environmental Science Teachers, PostsecondaryTeach courses in environmental science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.Educational Instruction and Library Occupations
19-4042.00Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including HealthPerform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations
19-2041.00Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including HealthConduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations
13-1041.03Equal Opportunity Representatives and OfficersMonitor and evaluate compliance with equal opportunity laws, guidelines, and policies to ensure that employment practices and contracting arrangements give equal opportunity without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
19-4071.00Forest and Conservation TechniciansProvide technical assistance regarding the conservation of soil, water, forests, or related natural resources. May compile data pertaining to size, content, condition, and other characteristics of forest tracts under the direction of foresters, or train and lead forest workers in forest propagation and fire prevention and suppression. May assist conservation scientists in managing, improving, and protecting rangelands and wildlife habitats.Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations
13-1041.04Government Property Inspectors and InvestigatorsInvestigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
19-2041.03Industrial EcologistsApply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations
13-1041.07Regulatory Affairs SpecialistsCoordinate and document internal regulatory processes, such as internal audits, inspections, license renewals, or registrations. May compile and prepare materials for submission to regulatory agencies.Business and Financial Operations Occupations
Cost To Complete
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This section provides you with a very high-level estimate of your costs and is purely intended as a guide. You should consult the institution via College Connect to get a more detailed estimate based on the totality of your circumstances. The selections below are based on information gathered from your Profile and the estimated costs are calculated based on the 120 credits remaining to be completed

Please select the "Cumulative Months of Service" that determine your Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.
Estimated Cost for the BS in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability at University of Lynchburg
These costs are based on an estimated 8 semesters or 4 years remaining to complete this degree (assuming a full-time load of 16 hours per semester)
Category Cost Basis Cost (To You) Estimated Benefits Net Cost Notes
Tuition $18,375 Per Semester $147,000 $0 $147,000 Per semester tuition for a full time status of 12 - 18 credit hours
*Please note that the above estimated costs do not include all Federal, State or other financial aid, grants, scholarships, etc. for which you may qualify. All such aid could substantially reduce these costs.
Tuition & Fee Notes:
  • Additional Fees
    • Additional fees may include parking fee ($100-$300) and program specific fees.
  • Part-Time Tuition - 7 or Less Hours
    • $575.00 per credit for traditional students (under 25)
  • Part-Time Tuition - 8 Hours or More
    • $1150.00 per credit for traditional students (under 25)
  • Part-Time Tuition - ACCESS Students (25 or older)
    • $530.00 per credit
  • Second Degree Nursing Students
    • $590.00 per credit
  • Overload Fee
    • $555.00 per credit (> 18 credits)
Other Financial Aid to Pay for College:
  • You may be eligible for additional financial aid from Federal, State, and Local sources. Military education benefits are not considered in determining eligibility for federal financial aid. Everyone is therefore encouraged to apply for federal financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), because many will qualify for additional educational funds like Pell Grants, worth over $5,500/yr.