This interdisciplinary, interdepartmental major is directed toward students interested in ecosystem management, natural resources conservation, environmental assessment, and/or environmental interpretation. An overall objective is to provide broad training in biological, chemical, earth, and social sciences to foster a multi-faceted understanding of environmental problems.

Within the major, students will be advised to follow a pathway to select from a wide range of courses in multiple departments. The pathways provide a clear direction, including career interests and aligning with individual strengths and experience. Students will also be advised to take certain optional courses to match prerequisites in a timely way. The CES major is available as a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts. Students are advised to seek the Bachelor of Science if they plan to take additional math courses, and particularly if they choose a pathway that includes additional chemistry and physics courses. See the current catalog for requirements in the College of Letters and Science, which includes the CES major for the Bachelor of Science degree  and CES major for the Bachelor of Arts degree.

Because of the breadth and flexibility of this major, students should consult with the Director and/or Coordinator to plan a course of study, preferably before the start of their sophomore year. It is particularly important to begin the introductory course sequences early, since they are prerequisites for advanced courses.

Field Work

It is recommended that students obtain at least one semester of practical work or internship experience, either as an employee or as a volunteer, with state or federal resource management agencies, consulting firms, conservation or environmental organizations, or with nature centers or local parks. Internships for credit must be arranged the semester prior to participation.