11%
The projects environmental scientists will see 11% job growth from 2016 to 2026.
Environmental science at the University of ÀÇÓÑÊÓƵ explores concepts from an interdisciplinary lens and will teach you to promote sustainable management of human and environmental health at the same time. We will challenge you to look past the headlines and use knowledge from the sciences to address environmental problems.
Our program focuses on providing you with a host of opportunities inside and outside of the classroom. Whether you are conducting collaborative research with a professor or exploring sustainable energy use in Iceland, we want you to engage with fellow students, faculty and alumni throughout your time at St. Thomas. Alumni have gone on to work for companies like 3M, Barr Engineering, the United States Geological Survey and more.
The core of the program are project-driven classes that integrate knowledge gained throughout your college career to solve environmental problems. You will complete courses in biology, geology, chemistry, along with electives focusing on a wide range of topics. This all culminates in your senior year when you complete a research seminar course focusing on a topic of your choice.
You start in biology, chemistry and geoscience courses, progressing through additional science courses based on your passions. You then pursue project-driven environmental science classes using all of the knowledge you gained to address environmental problems. You will also be encouraged to pursue courses in areas such as geography, engineering, theology and more during your undergraduate career at St. Thomas.
Our students gain research and professional experience throughout their college career. We offer a series of impactful professional development opportunities, and receive a variety of competitive research grants and awards each year. Both opportunities engage you with environmental science professionals inside and outside of St. Thomas.
The core of the program are project-driven classes that integrate knowledge gained throughout your college career to solve environmental problems. You will complete courses in biology, geology, chemistry, along with electives focusing on a wide range of topics. This all culminates in your senior year when you complete a research seminar course focusing on a topic of your choice.
You start in biology, chemistry and geoscience courses, progressing through additional science courses based on your passions. You then pursue project-driven environmental science classes using all of the knowledge you gained to address environmental problems. You will also be encouraged to pursue courses in areas such as geography, engineering, theology and more during your undergraduate career at St. Thomas.
Our students gain research and professional experience throughout their college career. We offer a series of impactful professional development opportunities, and receive a variety of competitive research grants and awards each year. Both opportunities engage you with environmental science professionals inside and outside of St. Thomas.
Our faculty are active researchers. Our alumni are making a difference in the world. Our students are solving environmental problems through their studies. Here is what they have been up to lately.
Dr. Lisa Lamb integrates research in her Sustainability Living Learning Community courses and carries these concepts to her senior capstone classes. Students examine topics such as groundwater levels, lake sediments and water chemistry. Dr. Lamb's research also uses drones to determine vegetation changes and what is affecting Piping Plover nesting. The Nature Conservancy also collaborates with Dr. Lamb and students in conducting this research.
Christine joined the Peace Corps after graduating from St. Thomas. Her position with the organization focused on securing funding for and delivering a community-driven environmental health project in Panama. She now works as an industrial water consultant for Homeyer Consulting Services, where she helps clients understand the nuances of the water treatment industry while advocating for their best interests by making clear and actionable recommendations.
Sarah does it all. She was a Student Ambassador for the College of Arts and Sciences, a member of the Geology and Sustainability clubs and a member of the Sustainability Living Learning Community her first year. She has extensive research experience, which included studying conservation of Piping Plovers in North Dakota and plate tectonics in the Himalayas.
Environmental science students have multiple careers available to them after graduation.
The Science, Mathematics and Engineering Scholarship is available for high-achieving incoming students. ÀÇÓÑÊÓƵ will offer two full-tuition scholarships and two $8,000 scholarships to top candidates who intend to pursue degrees in the sciences, mathematics or engineering.
Our program not only gives you the academic knowledge to be successful in the classroom, but also practical skills to prepare you for life after St. Thomas.
The projects environmental scientists will see 11% job growth from 2016 to 2026.
Engage with faculty. Get involved with impactful research with a bounty of professional and community partnerships through the university.
Where do you want to go? You can make the great outdoors your classroom through study abroad and field experiences.
Dr. Lamb explores how vegetation and the chemistry of bodies of water affects the Piping Plover in North Dakota.
Dr. Small investigates a variety of topics, including the fate of anthropogenic nutrients in aquatic ecosystems to communicating science to the public.
Dr. Theissen applies geological and geochemical methods to study past climate and environmental change, while also examining recent human impacts on the environment.
Environmental science students support each other throughout their college journeys. Not only do they collaborate with each other in clubs, but they also have the chance to work on research projects with fellow students and professors.
The Schoenecker Center — the university's new central home for STEAM education — is home to several new spaces for Environmental Science students, including our Water & Environmental Engineering Lab and the Earth, Environment & Society department offices.
Environmental science students at St. Thomas learn to dive deeper with their knowledge of the sciences to address environmental issues. Whether they are learning about environmental problems in another part of the world or conducting research here in the Twin Cities, environmental science students have the skills to promote—and create—a better future.
There is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.