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The Woods adds environmental science

News | 02.18.2014
SMWC adds Environmental Science

The future of humans, society and the Earth is going to hinge on the appropriate use of natural resources, innovative ideas and conservation. It is with this in mind that Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) adds the environmental science as a bachelor’s degree program for the fall of 2014 on campus. With a major or minor in environmental science, students can be at the forefront of these issues.

With social responsibility central to the mission of the College, environmental science is a natural addition to the curriculum.

“The world is currently facing many environmental challenges, and the goal of this major is to teach students about these issues, train them to interpret data and information and develop solutions to these problems,” states Robert Jean, assistant professor of ecology at SMWC.

Students may choose between two concentrations: wildlife/conservation and chemistry. This academic program prepares students to understand ecology, conservation, green technology, natural history, wildlife identification and management, all areas with future growth in the job market.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow by 19 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Heightened public interest in the hazards facing the environment, as well as the increasing demands placed on the environment by population growth, are expected to spur demand for professionals in the field.

Potential careers for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science include energy manager, consultant, park ranger/interpreter, natural historian, research for state and federal agencies, biologist, conservationist, lobbyist, environmental lawyer, green jobs (green building, wind power, biofuels, geothermal, solar, etc.) and many others.

For more information, contact an admission counselor at 1-800-926-SMWC or smwcadms@smwc.edu