Carroll College’s unique location in a rapidly growing and resource-rich area provides students with a variety of opportunities to explore fields of interest within environmental science. Waukesha County has a unique geologic history that creates an abundance of aquatic resources, varied topography, and unique plant and animal communities, all of which are strongly influenced by rapid population growth.

The environmental science program includes emphases in:

1. Resources conservation and management
2. Environmental monitoring and site assessment
3. Mapping and geologic analysis

Each can be completed in four years. Minors in earth science, and geography and environmental studies also are available.

In addition, a student can earn a master of science in environmental science via a partnership with Alaska Pacific University (APU). Students who enroll at Carroll for three years and then transfer to APU for two years can earn both a bachelor of science degree from Carroll College and a master of science degree from APU.

Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the major, students will:

• recognize the interrelated biophysical components and processes (i.e., structure
  and function) of the natural environment.
• understand how physical/chemical processes dynamically shape the earth’s surface
  and how such phenomena are distributed globally.
• correlate a broad understanding of environmental science with a specific/correlative
  understanding of related scientific fields.
• cultivate a set of personal values and attitudes concerning the environment, which
  will then prepare oneself to actively address environmental problems and participate
  in their solutions.
• understand how human activities and physical systems affect one another, and
  how to assess the impacts and implications of these interrelationships.
• apply appropriate scientific methods and techniques to the acquisition, analysis,
  and evaluation of environmental data.
• analyze environmental variables in measurable (quantitative/objective) and perceptual
  (qualitative/subjective) ways using modern equipment and instrumentation.
• acquire and analyze environmental samples and variables in outdoor settings using
  field equipment and instrumentation.
• utilize computers for acquiring, organizing, analyzing, and displaying valid environmental
  information and research results.
• demonstrate competency in written and oral communication by preparing effective
  written reports and oral presentations for peer and professional audiences.
• work cooperatively and purposefully with others in research and problem-solving
  situations.

Internships
Environmental science majors have participated in internships at the Center for Great Lakes Studies in Milwaukee; Retzer Nature Center, Waukesha County Park System, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, Waste Management, local environmental assessment firms, and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.

Careers

• The Resource Conservation and Management emphasis prepares students for professions in conservation biology, soil and water conservation, fish and wildlife management, environmental policy and planning, wetland ecology, and climate analysis.
• The Environmental Monitoring and Site Assessment emphasis prepares students for work in fields such as air, soil and water quality monitoring, solid waste and hazardous waste management, pollutant risk assessment, environmental remediation and restoration, environmental health and toxicology.
• The Mapping and Geographic Analysis emphasis prepares students for careers in GIS, environmental mapping, land-use planning, environmental impact assessment, market and location analysis, and travel consulting.