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

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.

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

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

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:

  • Academic-year research
  • Summer research
  • Outside research opportunities
  • Internship and volunteer opportunities

Recent Environmental Science News

NEWS

Discover the latest news and updates from our science community.

The Biology of Making a Difference

Biology, Environmental Science, Organismal Biology

1 minute read

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dawn barlow stands in front of water while wearing a pair of binoculars

Professor Diane Thomson Receives $345K National Science Foundation Grant for Climate Change Research

Biology, Environmental Science, Interdisciplinary

1 minute read

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portrait of professor Diane Thompson

Spotlight on Seniors: Kushnerniva Laurent ’24 Empowered to Conduct Interdisciplinary Research

Environmental Science

1 minute read

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a student with braids sites on a staircase