Environmental Science (B.S.)

Environmental Science

School of Science, Engineering and Health

Biological Sciences

As an environmental science major at Messiah College, you’ll have the unique opportunity to “do” science with other Christians who also care about being responsible stewards of creation.  Study subjects like environmental ethics, ecological field techniques, and plant taxonomy; participate in a wide variety of other related opportunities such as internships, field research, on-site restorations, and clubs as you prepare for your future career in areas like stream and landscape restoration, wetland delineation, wildlife management, forestry, parks and recreation management, sustainable agriculture, agricultural missions work, environmental education, and even teaching science. 

At Messiah, you not only learn science--you will also “do” science. You won’t just study the theory of science but also practice its application. And by combining this strong foundation of scientific knowledge and methods with a Christian perspective about God’s creation and your place in it, our innovative, hands-on curriculum, field work, internships, restoration projects, research, study abroad and more will prepare you to make a real and lasting difference in the world.  

As an Environmental Science major at Messiah College, you’ll be able to:

• Conduct extensive field studies on our beautiful 471-acre campus with expansive woodlands, wetlands, and fields. Off-campus sites include the nearby Appalachian Trail corridor, and the Susquehanna River and its tributaries.
• Participate in forest and wetland restoration projects on campus.
• Gain hands on field experiences in ecological field techniques.

• Combine the environmental science curriculum with studies in public policy, environmental economics, appropriate technology, and environmental literature.
• Take courses in entomology, herpetology, ornithology, aquatic biology, mycology, and plant taxonomy.

• Participate in research projects and present your findings at Scholarship Day and the Pennsylvania Academy of Sciences.
• Choose to pursue a graduate degree in wildlife ecology, forestry, plant ecology, herpetology, ornithology, insect ecology, and sustainable development.
• Land internships in places like the Nature Conservancy, Education Concerns for Hunger (ECHO), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Protection, the Fish and Boat Commission, and the PA Association of Environmental Professionals which has a student chapter on campus. 
• Dig into on-campus “green” initiatives such as the Grantham Community Garden, Earthkeepers, the Messiah College Sustainability Committee, and others.

Major Requirements:

PDF Course Listing

Minors:

• Environmental Science (PDF Course Listing)

• Environmental Science for Biology Majors (PDF Course Listing)