University of Wisconsin Stout | Wisconsin's Polytechnic University

Environmental science is an integrated biological, physical, and chemical approach to the study of ecological systems with the goal of solving and preventing environmental problems. In response to threats such as pollution and climate change, environmental scientists:

• Monitor water pollution
• Manage and restore natural landscapes
• Manage invasive species
• Facilitate community environmental and food initiatives
• Ensure population viability of rare species

Employment Opportunities

The coursework, research experiences, service opportunities and internships that our students participate in as part of this program provide them with a vast array of skills in various environmental fields. Within the scope of the environmental science concentration, students may focus on:

• Land management,
• GIS analysis,
• Plant sciences,
• Fish biology, and
• Water quality.
  

Graduates of the environmental science concentration have both practical skills in the field and lab, and real-life experience with solving environmental problems in independent and collaborative settings. Graduates have the opportunity to work at:

• Governmental agencies,
• Non-profit organizations,
• Environmental consulting firms,
• Water quality testing labs,
• Pursue careers as a GIS analyst, biological or water resource technician, or
• Pursue advanced degrees in the environmental sciences.

Many students combine this concentration with minors in Geographic Information Systems, Plant Science, or Sustainable Design and Development.

Coursework

The Applied Science program grounds students in a solid foundation of environmental and general science coursework. Students are required to take the following:

• Environmental Science Core Courses
• Applied Science Core Courses
• Choose one Technical Emphasis
• Electives to total 120 credits
  

The technical emphasis allows students to develop a deep skill set within an area of their choice.

See the concentration program plan [PDF].

Student-Centered Approach

The faculty in the Applied Science program is dedicated to providing students with the hands-on experience that they need to develop skills for the workforce. Teaching at UW-Stout is applied and student-centered, so students in the environmental science concentration can pursue a wide variety of environmental activities, such as:

• Student organizations,
• Individual/group projects with faculty members,
• Class projects that work with the community for real on-the-ground change.
  

Internet Resources

The University Library maintains an excellent Environmental Science Subject Guide with many online resources that students in the concentration will find helpful.