| Requirements
of the Major Requirements of the Minor Environmental Science Program Website |
Convener: Eric Wiener Faculty: Clyde Johnson Emma Rainforth Eric Karlin |
About the Major
The environmental challenges of the 21st century require individuals who understand environmental and scientific complexities and can implement a multi-disciplinary approach to environmental problem-solving at local, regional and global scales. Led by a dynamic group of faculty whose expertise and research interests span a wide range of critical environmental topics (chemical pollution measurement and impacts, paleoecology, forest ecosystems, wetland ecology, conservation biology, environmental impact assessment, paleoclimate, and alternative energy systems), the Environmental Science major at Ramapo College provides students with a strong foundation in basic sciences, followed by a specially designed set of advanced courses that help students acquire extensive theoretical and practical knowledge in advanced geology, environmental chemistry, field ecology and research, and climate change. The entire curriculum is heavily experiential in nature, with strong laboratory and field work components in nearly every course, and with ample training in the skills that are essential for launching successful careers in the sciences (research design, statistics, technical writing, critical thinking, computer applications, and oral presentations).
In addition to gaining extensive, hands-on laboratory and field experience, much of which takes place in the adjacent scenic Highlands region, students are encouraged to conduct independent research projects with environmental science faculty, and to participate in Coop Education and fellowship opportunities with organizations like the Weis Ecology Center, the Ramapo-directed and staffed New Jersey Meadowlands Environmental Center (NJMEC), and with environmental consulting firms in the region. Graduates enter a wide range of careers, including environmental testing, ecological field research, environmental consulting and impact assessment, environmental education, alternative energy, environmental planning, and with local, state and federal government agencies. The major is structured so that students may continue their studies at the graduate level in a variety of environmentally-related areas. Environmental Science students planning a career in education can also complete a Teacher Certification program in Earth Science offered at Ramapo College.[ return to top ]
