Bachelor of Science in Environmental StudiesSchool of Arts and Sciences

Home / Academics / Programs / Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies

Studying our impact on the world

The Environmental Studies program will allow you to pursue a broad, interdisciplinary view of environmental issues. In a world where resource use is expanding and the actions of individuals are increasingly likely to have a global impact, Environmental Studies is more relevant than ever before.

The Environmental Studies program offers you the opportunity to explore your interest in the environment through rigorous and interdisciplinary coursework in the natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. You will also have an opportunity to make significant and lasting changes through collaboration with faculty in research and community service.

You will combine coursework, research and involvement in the community (local and/or global) to gain the perspective and experience necessary to work toward a sustainable future.

Environmental Studies Minor

Students may also take an Environmental Studies minor at Edgewood College. All students in the minor are required to participate in at least three campus or local service activities related to environmental studies. Service activities must be approved by a student’s minor advisor.

Locations
Madison, WI

Formats
On-campus

Number of Credits
120

Next Start Date
January 21, 2025

Careers within Environmental Studies

The Environmental Studies program prepares you for meaningful, collaborative work in areas such as teaching, research, consultation, writing and activism.

In our modern world where people around the planet are feeling the effects of environmental degradation due to decades of unsustainable practices, businesses and organizations are increasingly seeking out graduates who can demonstrate a higher level of environmental literacy. The Environmental Studies program can give you the edge you need when taking your first steps in a meaningful career, whether that’s in education, research, advocacy, or a host of other possibilities.

Featured Courses in Environmental Studies

ENVS 352 EJ – Environmental Politics

This course examines the political dynamics that underlie environmental policymaking in the United States. Major issues in environmental policy, including public lands, wildlife, pollution and energy will be examined, as well as the role of governmental institutions, interest groups and the public in formulating environmental policy.

BIO 292 – Biology Excursions

Science learning experiences occur in the classroom, in the laboratory, and in the field. In this experience-based course, students discover and experience facts, concepts, and laws of science for themselves, much as scientists do in their professional lives. Experiences that extend from the classroom into the field allow students to explore, observe, and investigate things in the natural world that cannot be effectively brought into the classroom learning environment. Travel is an essential part of the class and locations will be chosen for their scientific and/or environmental significance. Classroom sessions will precede the travel portion of the course. Specific Prerequisites of the course will vary with semester and travel destinations.

GEOS 210 E – National Parks Geo and Preservation

The National Park Service and the parks it administers are a uniquely American idea. We will examine the National Parks role in preserving some of our country’s most unique geological, ecological and cultural features. An examination of the development of the National Park and National Park Service idea will be followed by in-depth case studies centered around specific parks. These case studies will use the natural sciences to describe the unique features of these parks and the environmental issues that are facing them today.

Explore All Courses For This Program

Environmental Studies Faculty Spotlights

Associate Professor

Lauren Lacey

LLacey@edgewood.edu

Associate Professor

Jacob Griffin

JacobGriffin@edgewood.edu

Professor of Political Science

Steven Davis, PhD

davis@edgewood.edu

View All Faculty

Student Organizations

Wood’s Edge

Wood’s Edge is an organization for students who are interested in the outdoors and caring for the environment. Participate in a variety of recreation and service activities such as:

hiking
camping
canoeing
invasive species management on campus
rearing garden seedlings
tending the campus garden
selling fresh healthy produce to our community

Woods Edge is a main sponsor of Edgewood’s annual Earth Week celebration, which garners many more events revolving around the care and appreciation of our environment.

Environmental Studies Experiences

You’ll be uniquely situated within the city of Madison while still surrounded by expansive natural areas. Within an easy walk or bike ride are the shores of beautiful Lake Wingra, pre-settlement oak savanna trees, abundant woodlands, wetlands, and the 1200-acre University of Wisconsin Arboretum, located just across the lake. And you’ll work with faculty and staff who reflect a deep commitment to environmental education and stewardship, making this an ideal place for students interested in Environmental Studies.