Environmental Science
major
As an Environmental Science major, you’ll use scientific research methods to assess and understand environmental factors and generate ideas about how society can make positive change. At Saint Michael’s we combine local understandings and transformative undergraduate research activities to build a broader systems mindset, enabling students to seek both scientific and societal solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
From the very beginning you’ll have the chance to apply what you learn. Whether it’s working with the local park district, on our organic farm, or as part of the Institute for the Environment, there are countless opportunities to make positive environmental impact on campus and beyond. And what better location to learn about the natural world than Vermont, nestled into the Lake Champlain basin and next to the Green Mountains? The very best research laboratory is right outside your door!
Inside Look
Curriculum
At Saint Michael’s you’ll dive deep into the science of our world’s environmental challenges with the aim of bringing better balance between human society and the natural world. Our educational focus is on helping students understand their place in the world and how they can make a difference, and Environmental Science majors have a wealth of opportunities to use their education to improve our campus and ecologically sensitive areas nearby.
You’ll be encouraged to work with community stakeholders, industry leaders, and governmental partners on research with real-world implications. A cornerstone of your education will be to conduct research that helps you think critically about both the environment and society, recognize bias, and communicate effectively in written, visual, and oral forms- all crucial skills for both a career or graduate studies.
You’ll follow a curriculum that is both rigorous and flexible so you can take courses that best match your interests and passions. Our students’ ability to take interdisciplinary coursework allows them to gain multiple perspectives and points of view.
Highlight
News
Students Tackle Invasive Species
Alumni Profile
Theresa Hoar ’25
Careers
Environmental Science grads have a range of promising career options. These in-demand students can look forward to career opportunities in the private sector, non-profits, and government agencies
After graduation, our majors go on to careers like:
- Environmental Consultant
- Urban Planner
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Sustainability Coordinator/Manager
- Renewable Energy Specialist
- Park Ranger/ Forest Ranger
- Agricultural or Food Scientist
- Biological Technician
- Geoscientist
- Environmental Educators
- Military Officer and/or National Guard
- Environmental Stewardship
- State Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation Positions
- Regenerative and/or Organic Farmer
- Landscape Designer and Caretaker
- Wildlife Biologist
Faculty
Contact
Clay Williams
Director and Associate Professor of Environmental Science
Saint Edmund's Hall 338
cwilliams8@smcvt.edu
802-654-2772
Ready to take the next step?
Learning and exciting opportunities await you at Saint Michael’s College.