Environmental Science

Field research is the best way to see environmental science in action. Every year, North Parkers embark on research trips to exotic locations around the world. Trips that explore the tropical ecology of Costa Rica, watershed biology in Ethiopia, or the prairie and ranch resources of South Dakota provide hands-on experiences that environmental science majors will find invaluable. Accompanied by their professors, students are immersed in the ecology and culture of their travel destinations, and consult with local experts to enrich their learning. More about travel courses

Why Study Environmental Science?

The future of our planet’s health will depend on professionals who can assess and solve our most pressing environmental problems. Environmental science will teach you about our natural world and how to live sustainably within it. Students can pursue careers that involve animal observation, plant survey work, population analysis, plant restoration, education, and data and statistical analysis, or graduate work in conservation biology, ecological restoration, or ecological research.

Why North Park?

Our program provides a strong foundation in the life sciences and an understanding of Christian stewardship of the environment. We will help you get the resume-building experiences you need through: domestic and international travel courses with unique field experiences; additional course offerings through partnerships with the Au Sable Institute and the Associated Colleges of the College Area; excellent internships; and support for summer undergraduate research opportunities.

Internships

Earn up to 4 credits toward your major by completing an internship in environmental science work. Our students have interned at organizations that include:

Learn more about your options through the Office of Career Development and Internships.

Chicago Botanic Garden
Friends of the Chicago River
Morton Arboretum
The Field Museum
Shedd Aquarium

Environmental Science’s New Home

In fall 2014, environmental science will move into the Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life, a 101,000-square-foot facility equipped built to meet LEED-certification standards for environmental responsibility in construction and operation. This new hub of scientific life at North Park will be a stunning addition to the campus community.

More about the Johnson Center

Meet the Faculty

Alan Bjorkman’s own undergraduate experience at North Park introduced him to the wonders of nature. Now he is inspiring his environmental studies students while providing the academics and experiential learning opportunities they need to boost their resumes.

Read more about Dr. Bjorkman.

Interesting Classes

Tropical Ecology of Costa Rica
Marine Biology of the Bahamas
Economic Botany
Ecology
Animal Behavior
Natural History of Vertebrates
Native Plants of the Great Lakes Region

Biology Department Honors Club

Every spring, a new group of high-achieving students from majors in the Biology Department, including environmental science, are invited to join the Tri-Beta Biology Honor Club. Members gather regularly for meals, research discussions, outdoor exploration, guest speakers, and trips.

Next Steps

Program Requirements

Major coursework:
34 (BA) or 38 (BS) credit hours
46 general education credits
120 total credits for graduation
Full program requirements