Program Details
Program Details
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Bachelor of Science
Roanoke College
Program Details
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies
Bachelor of ScienceBachelor of Science in Environmental Studies
Roanoke College
Environmental Studies provides students with knowledge, methods, and opportunities to investigate pressing domestic and global environmental problems, to gain insight into their relationship with nature, and to examine their role in creating an equitable sustainable world. The B.S. in Environmental Studies is an interdisciplinary major drawn from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Students specialize by following one of two areas: 1) Conservation and the Earth’s Critical Zone or 2) Environment, Society and Science. All students majoring in Environmental Studies are encouraged to consult with their advisors regularly, and to consider internships, research projects, and study away experiences that will allow them to define, refine and achieve their postgraduate goals
Outcomes
Actively investigate roles and identities as citizens, consumers and environmental actors in a complex, interconnected world; use an interdisciplinary approach that integrates perspectives and methods of analysis from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities; demonstrate critical thinking (quantitative and qualitative); link theory and practice in order to understand the connections among environmental, social and cultural dynamics at multiple scales; work collaboratively in the design and implementation of research, applied projects and creative works; collect and analyze original data and interact with decision makers during hands-on field experiences using professional methods; communicate effectively in writing, in oral presentations, and in visual media; consider the significance of differences in culture and circumstance, exploring the full breadth of knowledge, perspectives, traditions and experiences of the human condition.
Program Overview & Guidance
Delivery Mode
In-Person
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Delivery Mode
Online
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Delivery Mode
Hybrid
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| Program Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Considerations for Selecting Degree | This program emphasizes Interdisciplinary thinking, experiential learning, and problem-solving. Potential career paths include: conservation science, environmental policy, water quality, environmental/natural resource management, environmental sociology, national/state park interpretation, environmental consulting, and sustainability. Our program features a project-based senior capstone in which students have the ability to apply their knowledge towards addressing a real-world environmental issue with a community partner. |
| Considerations When Selecting Courses |
Useful choices for transfer include introductory environmental science with lab. Students interested in our science track should consider coursework in introductory biology, ecology, or chemistry. Students interested in our social science track should consider taking microeconomics or introductory courses in sociology or political science. Transferring some foreign language courses will help students finish that college requirement faster.
|
| Program Requirements Beyond Specific Courses | |
| Doing More With Your Degree | The interdisciplinary nature of our degree creates opportunities to double major in Biology, Scoiology, Political Science, and Public Health Studies (as well as others). Internships and study abroad experiences are highly encouraged; internship partners include the Clean Valley Council and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy as well as local government offices and businesses. Special opportunities on campus for research and independent study include: an outdoor laboratory and environment center, field-based lab courses, a project-based senior capstons course, and intensive learning May terms on environmental topics. |
| Program Successes & Highlights | Thsi program empasizes: (1) an interdisciplinary approach that integrates perspectives and methods of analyses from the natural sciences, social sciences, and environmental humanities; (2) Experiential, hands-on learning that promotes the development of teamwork and collaboartive leadership skills and culminates in a project-based senior practicum with a community partner; (3) Research, independent study, internships, and service experiences that allow students to apply their classroom learning while developing marketable skills. Example opportunities include: a student-run garden, an outdoor field laboratory, internships with local non-profit and government agencies, research assistantships with faculty members in areas that include environmental justice, water quality, land management, biodiversity, environmental sociology, food systems, and environmental ethics. |
Program Credit Requirements
Credit and Course Requirements for the Program are expected in a future release. Please look above to see if a Transfer Guide is available for this program. If 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.
If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
If you wish to see how your credits may apply, you can:
- Contact the institution where a staff member can help you map your credits to the requirements for this program.
- View the program requirements listed in the institution's catalog.
Applicable Admissions Agreements
The table below lists admissions agreements between Roanoke College 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.
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?
| Transfer Guidance Element | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Associate Transfer Degree Completion | Courses completed as part of an associate's degree or general education certificate will be evaluated by our Registrar at admission, and appropriate transfer credits will be awarded. Nearly all general education requirements can be completed with transfer credits. Transferrable courses from an accredited college or university will apply to general education, major, and graduation requirements. UCGS and Passport courses will all transfer. |
Completion of Associate Degree Concurrent with High School | Transferrable courses from an accredited college or university taken as dual enrollment while in high school will apply to general education, major, and graduation requirements. Up to three additional World Language courses can satisfy the language requirement. UCGS and Passport courses will all transfer. |
| Credit for Prior Learning | In general, Roanoke does not offer credit for prior learning outside of higher education coursework. Military training transcripted by an accredited institution of higher education is accepted. |
| Did You Know That... |
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College Level Information
Number of Transfer Students
90
Percent of Accepted Transfer Students
The average enrolled transfer student has a college transfer GPA of 3.12, and 58% of transfer applicants are admitted.
| College Fit Guidance | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Is This College Right For Me? | Roanoke has about 2000 students, mostly undergraduates. Classes are small, averaging 17 students, with a real commitment to teaching and supporting students. Expect close personal interactions with faculty and staff members who get to know you. Active athletic and recreational opportunities are part of the college as are a wide range of student clubs and activities. |
| Transfer Student Catalog Year | Catalog year is determined by first semester of attendance. VCCS transfer students may choose a catalog from the two years prior to their first term of attendance if desired. |
| First Year Student Catalog Year | Catalog year for freshmen is determined by first semester of attendance. |
| Applying for Guaranteed Admissions | Expected transfer students should notify the admissions office as soon as possible, so we can provide advice on courses which will transfer. |
Where Can This Degree Transfer
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 College | Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree in Science | Associate | Associate of Arts and Sciences | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Virginia Western Community College | Associate of Science Degree in Integrated Environmental Studies | Associate | Associate of Science | 2-Year | In-Person, Hybrid |
| Eastern Mennonite University | Bachelor of Science Environmental Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Virginia Wesleyan University | Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Management | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Shenandoah University | Bachelor of Arts Environmental and Sustainability Studies | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Sweet Briar College | Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| University of Lynchburg | BS in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Emory & Henry University | Environmental Studies: Science (BS) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Randolph College | Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Randolph College | Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Environmental Studies, Bachelor of Science | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Emory & Henry University | Environmental Studies: Policy (BA) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
| Randolph-Macon College | Environmental Studies (BA) | Bachelor | Bachelor of Arts | 4-Year | In-Person |
Careers Where This Degree Applies
| O*Net Code | Name | Description | Parent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19-2041.01 | Climate Change Policy Analysts | Research 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 |
| 19-2041.02 | Environmental Restoration Planners | Collaborate 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 |
| 25-1053.00 | Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Teach 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 |
| 19-2041.00 | Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health | Conduct 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 |
| 19-2041.03 | Industrial Ecologists | Apply 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 |
| 13-1041.00 | Compliance Officers | Examine, 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 |
| 13-1041.06 | Coroners | Direct 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 |
| 13-1041.08 | Customs Brokers | Prepare 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 |
| 13-1041.01 | Environmental Compliance Inspectors | Inspect 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 |
| 13-1041.03 | Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers | Monitor 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 |
| 13-1041.04 | Government Property Inspectors and Investigators | Investigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations. | Business and Financial Operations Occupations |
| 13-1041.07 | Regulatory Affairs Specialists | Coordinate 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 |
| 19-4042.00 | Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | Perform 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 |
| 19-4071.00 | Forest and Conservation Technicians | Provide 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 |
| 11-9121.01 | Clinical Research Coordinators | Plan, direct, or coordinate clinical research projects. Direct the activities of workers engaged in clinical research projects to ensure compliance with protocols and overall clinical objectives. May evaluate and analyze clinical data. | Management Occupations |
| 19-1031.00 | Conservation Scientists | Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or to protect rangelands. May instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
| 11-9121.00 | Natural Sciences Managers | Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields. | Management Occupations |
| 19-1031.03 | Park Naturalists | Plan, develop, and conduct programs to inform public of historical, natural, and scientific features of national, state, or local park. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
| 25-1199.00 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | All postsecondary teachers not listed separately. | Educational Instruction and Library Occupations |
| 19-1031.02 | Range Managers | Research or study range land management practices to provide sustained production of forage, livestock, and wildlife. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
| 19-3099.00 | Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other | All social scientists and related workers not listed separately. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
| 19-3099.01 | Transportation Planners | Prepare studies for proposed transportation projects. Gather, compile, and analyze data. Study the use and operation of transportation systems. Develop transportation models or simulations. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
| 19-3051.00 | Urban and Regional Planners | Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas. | Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations |
| 11-9121.02 | Water Resource Specialists | Design or implement programs and strategies related to water resource issues such as supply, quality, and regulatory compliance issues. | Management Occupations |
Cost To Complete