Environmental Science Programs - The Department of Natural Sciences

Environmental Science

Environmental Science seeks to explain the complex systems and interactions that make our planet work. Our program draws on tools from fields such as biology, chemistry, and earth science to give you the scientific background you need to unravel environmental mysteries and develop a deeper understanding of the world around you.

a woman wearing jeans and a lab coat fills a vial with pond water

a student crouches down in a forest with a notebook in hand

Decipher our planet's complex systems

Help Shape the Sustainable Future

Our Environmental Science program prepares students for careers in many environmental problem-solving fields, including:

Medicine
Chemistry
Conservation
Global climate change
Environmental law and policy
Urban planning
Resource management

three students inspect plants outdoors at bernard field station

Our Environmental Science Program

Explore

Our Environmental Science program prepares you for graduate work and careers in teaching, public policy, law, environmental sciences, international affairs, environmental design, and the non-profit sector. It also lays a strong foundation for anyone interested in a career in environmental education or community environmental action.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science at the Department of Natural Sciences

In our Environmental Science program, you’ll closely examine the interactions of biological, chemical, geological, and physical components of the natural world. You’ll use scientific methods to study and understand the environment.

Environmental Science Major Details

two students crouch on rocks while collecting water samples from a creek

On-Campus Field Research

EXPLORE

The Claremont College campuses steward two natural spaces for field research: The Bernard Field Station and Pitzer’s Robert Redford Conservancy for Southern California Sustainability (RRC), each just steps from campus.

a group of five students leave the entrance of the RRC surrouded by oak trees

You’ll put theory to practice studying the Bernard Field Station’s California sage scrub, live oak forest, grassland, and vernal pools. The RRC offers opportunties to get involved in environmental sustainability and education while working on local and national policy and advocacy.

four women sit on the edge of the bernard field station pond

Learn About Bernard Field Station

Explore the Robert Redford Conservancy

Faculty insights

Voices from the Field

“I try to make sure that the work students do in my classes add in some small but meaningful way to real science. Involving students in research projects not only enriches their academic experience but also prepares them for future careers in science and environmental management.”

Diane Thomson
Professor of Biology and Environmental Science

Woman in beige jacket and purple shirt with glasses.

Research opportunities

DISCOVER

You’ll have the opportunity to get involved with environmentally focused research with one of the several ongoing research studies led by our faculty. Opportunities are available throughout the year: