The Environmental Studies Program offers both Bachelor of Arts
and Bachelor of Science degrees to undergraduates interested in
environmental issues on the professional career level. Both
programs are interdisciplinary and have enabled students with
different backgrounds in the sciences, social sciences and
humanities to analyze and solve environmental problems. Courses are
drawn from many departments with a major emphasis on the sciences
(Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics) and the social sciences
(Geography, Government, Anthropology, Philosophy). Additional
courses are offered directly through the Program and cover
interdisciplinary topics not covered by existing
departments.
Since its inception in 1973 the program has been closely
associated with St. John's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Within the context of a thoughtful, liberal arts education our
students actively engage both classical and highly modern ideas and
issues. In this way they fully prepare themselves for life in the
dawn of the 21st century. The original objectives of the program,
as formulated in 1973, are still an important part of its mission
statement. They remain:
- To orient students with different backgrounds in the Sciences
and Humanities in the analysis and resolution of environmental
problems
- To administer a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum that
will maximize the number of career alternatives students have upon
graduation
- To provide an educational experience that prepares personnel to
staff the academic, industrial and government agencies directly
responsible for solving environmental problems
We expect our students to become more capable speakers, better
writers and superior analysts. They will also become more
knowledgeable and concerned citizens capable of leading this
country into the years ahead. Working with professors on research
projects, independent studies and career development, students are
encouraged to develop a professional outlook about their field as
early as possible.
The environmental crisis facing humanity and this planet must be
addressed in a rational, thoughtful and direct fashion. Most of the
truly serious environmental issues are still ahead of us. The
Environmental Studies Program is committed to this task and
welcomes concerned, motivated and qualified students to join us in
this critical pursuit.