Environmental Science Major | Houghton University

Explore and conserve God's creation in a constantly changing world.

Investigate and explore the science behind the environment including biology, ecology, field methods, chemistry and more, in a Christ-centered environment. Grow deeper in your understanding of your faith in relation to Environmental Science and gain a deeper appreciation for God's creation.

Partner with faculty who invest in your professional and academic success and are passionate about living out faith in Christ.

Degree Snapshot

Undergraduate - Bachelor's

Degree Types: BA, BS

Program Credits: 124

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What will I learn?

Two Houghton environmental science students looking at their findings from their net, standing in a river.

Through Houghton’s major in Environmental Science, you will:

Conduct research in an area that you are passionate about, such as the Megatransect through the Sierra Nevada Mountains of CA
Explore ecosystem function, the impacts of environmental problems, and the ways in which society influences problems and solutions
Learn in a personal, friendly, and collaborative environment that allows for faculty to personally assist you in reaching your goals

Why study Environmental Science at Houghton?

Gain Hands-on Experience

Gain professional experience before graduation. Many environmental science students have the opportunity to conduct, present, and publish peer-reviewed research in collaboration with faculty members. Students can work directly in the field through off-campus study, practicums, internships, and student/faculty research collaboration.

Conduct Research with Faculty

Engage in research with a faculty member during the semester or as part of the Shannon Summer Research Institute. Some previous topics have been: animal behavior, ecology, conservation, microbiology, ecophysiology, genetics, etc. In the past, students traveled to conduct research on biodiversity in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Learn about the research institute

Immerse Yourself in God's Creation

Study on a campus with 100+ acres of forested land and riverine habitats. You will be able to study at some of these places that are in close proximity to campus: the Genesee River, Roger Tory Peterson Institute for Natural History, and Allegany and Letchworth State Parks for ecological and environmental study and internship opportunities.

Work in State-of-the-Art Facilities

Get hands-on with professional research equipment in the recently renovated Paine Center for Science, including:

genetic analyzer for sequencing DNA
laminar flow hoods for tissue culture
fluorescent microscopes and imaging systems
thermal cyclers for PCR
various equipment for DNA/RNA extraction and electrophoresis
advanced instrumentation for water quality assessment

Explore the Biology Facilities

Courses & Degree Requirements

Popular Courses

BIOL 251 Genetics

Principles of inheritance in living organisms, including the modern concepts of “gene” action and DNA structure and function.

BIOL 301 Field Botany

Introduction to taxonomy, systematics, and ecology of vascular plants. Includes field trips throughout Western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania, plant identification and classification, and developing an extensive herbarium.

BIOL 336 Animal Behavior

Study animal behavior, why animals behave as they do and, to a lesser degree, how they get the job done. Topics include genes and behavior, learning, organization of behavior, communication, mating systems, parental investment, and cooperation.

Degree Options

BA - 124 credits

57 credits
Required Courses

67 credits
Elective courses + general education

BA Degree Requirements

BS - 124 credits

69-73 credits
Required Courses

51-55 credits
Elective courses + general education

BS Degree Requirements

Meet a Faculty Member

What can I do with a degree in environmental science?

Career Opportunities

Students earning a BA or BS degree in Environmental Science from Houghton University are prepared for careers in many areas, including but not limited to:

Environmental Science and Protection Technician

Environmental Scientist and Specialist

Conservation Scientist and Forester

Hydrologist