<p>Ive done some pretty serious thinking recently and have come to the conclusion that I definitely want to major in environmental studies in college. Im pretty set on going to an LAC as well, but i think i would also consider some other good uni's with more LAC-like undergrad atmospheres. Ive looked at a few programs such as the ones at Middlebury and Oberlin, but i thought i would ask around on here as well. What other colleges have excellent, stand-out, amazing environmental studies programs? I live in Ohio, so I'd kinda like to stay in the midwest/northeast/mid-atlantic regions. Other than that, im open to suggestions, so FIRE AWAY!</p>
<p>Ohio University-Athens and Ohio Wesleyan University each have fine Biology Departments. Investigate their web sites to determine if they are similarly strong in Environmental Science, as the two disciplines overlap. Also, Michigan State University is outstanding in the Natural Sciences.</p>
<p>A piece of advice...</p>
<p>I would think long and hard before majoring in environmental studies as opposed to an environmental science degree. Make sure the degree programs you are looking at offer a BS rather than a BA, as employment prospects drop dramatically with the BA. Most environmental consulting firms (I know from experience in the Pittsburgh area, close to your target location) exclusively hire those with either a BS in enviromental science, geology, or environmental studies (if enough science courses required). </p>
<p>However, if you plan on going into law, the BA in environmental studies may not be a bad idea, especially if you want to double with one of the more traditional sciences (i.e. biology, chemisty, geology, physics). </p>
<p>As for schools, I used to be more well-versed in the subject and don't really have the time to look through the listings. But I do advise you to look at schools with strong biology, chemistry and geology departments, as they all go very close hand-in-hand with environmental work. The geology department is a key, as many schools now do not have a department...so please keep that in mind! :D</p>
<p>thanks for the advice Ophiolite, thats definitely something that ive seen quite a bit around here (going BS as opposed to BA for E.S), but i havent really been able to find many top LACs that offer a BS degree in Environmental science/studies. I dont really plan on going into environmental consulting, so I dont see it as a huge deal, but im definitely looking into it. Right now im kinda leaning towards going into the Peace Corps for a couple years right after college, then maybe going to grad school when i get back. I know that sounds really planned out way ahead of time, but thats really just kinda what id like to do...who knows what will happen when i actually get to college. All i know is i want to help save the environment, whether the job prospects are good for that or not...</p>
<p>Our D is also interested in environmental sciences. Try <a href="http://www.enviroeducation.com%5B/url%5D">www.enviroeducation.com</a>, a link I got from wonderful Carolyn. Use the green search box. All info isn't current, but you can check on specific programsn websites. Good luck!</p>
<p>UCLA
Michigan</p>
<p>Ohio University-Athens and Ohio Wesleyan University each have fine Biology Departments. Investigate their web sites to determine if they are similarly strong in Environmental Science, as the two disciplines overlap. Also, Michigan State University is outstanding in the Natural Sciences.</p>
<p>Evironmental Studies is a social science, not a natural science. Environmental Science and Environmental Studies are two different areas of study.</p>
<p>connecticut college has a wonderful program:</p>
<p>and a unique interdisplicanry certificate program:
"The Goodwin-Niering Center for Conservation Biology and Environmental Studies is a comprehensive, interdisciplinary program that builds on one of the nation's leading undergraduate environmental studies programs. The Center fosters research, education, and curriculum development aimed at understanding contemporary ecological challenges."</p>
<p>I wouldn't call Environmental Studies a social science, Drew- at least, not entirely. You certainly need the science focus; it merely has policy issues thrown into the mix. A more accurate description would be that Environmental Studies spans the two areas, like Geography does. </p>
<p>I would suggest Franklin & Marshall, Susquehanna, Juniata, Lawrence U, Sarah Lawrence, Ursinus, Macalester, Swarthmore, Colgate, and Wittenberg. </p>
<p>If you're willing to look in the NE, I'd suggest Bates, Bowdoin (EXCELLENT program), Colby, Bennington, College of the Atlantic, Marlboro, Hampshire, and Bard.</p>
<p>The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has an Environmental Studies program that has a couple of minors that can add a little specialization to your studies - Environmental education and environmental communications. There are also majors available in water science, soil science, Natural Resources and Environmental Economics, as well as Plant Protection Sciences.</p>
<p>I'm not sure how these programs rank, but it seems that you could really explore a number of avenues all aimed at the environment. The University Honors Program has a very small college feel with it's own exclusive dorm, and specific class sections, advising and programming. If you are qualified to get in to the Honors Program, then I would imagine that you would earn a Beadle scholarship which would get you in-state tuition. I know it's not an LAC, but it's a smaller, well recognized Research I state school, and I know firsthand that you can make it feel like a smaller school despite having all the opportunities a larger school affords...something to think about.</p>
<p>I wouldn't call Environmental Studies a social science, Drew- at least, not entirely. You certainly need the science focus; it merely has policy issues thrown into the mix. A more accurate description would be that Environmental Studies spans the two areas, like Geography does. </p>
<p>It depends on the program. Some are very science based, and many aren't. My school offers 2 Environmental studies degrees: one focuses more on the science aspect and you get a BS and the other focuses almost completely on policy and you get a BA.</p>