Why Should I Choose Environmental Science?

Environmental Science is a field of growing importance as today's world grapples with complex environmental challenges. The inextricable link we have to the natural system means our first step in solving environmental problems should be to intimately understand the processes that govern the environment.

In this degree program:

  • You'll explore and gain an understanding of earth's four spheres and how humans interact with those spheres.
  • You'll learn the concepts that help us understand these systems as well as techniques to assess environmental health.
  • You'll analyze and display this data spatially using ArcGIS Pro software.
  • You'll disseminate this information to your peers and the broader community.

What Will I Learn Through Environmental Science?

When you study Environmental Science at Elmira College, you will learn through a combination of theory and practical, hands-on learning that will help you lead among scientists, climate organizations, and policymakers. You will get a basis in the fundamentals with more specialized knowledge layered on, including how to analyze environmental issues and think critically about the future of our planet. We believe in the practical application of your skills, we will provide many opportunities to apply what you learn in the classroom in the field, through research, and in an internship.

Full Course Listing

Pursuing another field of study? A minor in Environmental Science pairs well with many other majors and can help broaden your horizons.

Full Course Listing


“The professors really know you – they know your name, they care about how you’re doing … and you just feel really supported.” –Rachel Bortnick '25

What Can I Do With An Environmental Science Degree?

Our students are out in the field often, whether that is in the local area or farther away such as St. John in the US Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, Hawaii, or Alaska. This hands-on learning approach prepares you for immediate, practical careers in one of the fastest-growing fields in the US and abroad. After graduation, you can use the knowledge and skills you learned to immediately enter the workforce and begin to shape policy decisions and solve modern environmental problems.

More About Careers


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Create YOUR Elmira Experience with a viewbook customized just for you!

Create YOUR Elmira Experience with a viewbook customized just for you!

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