College of Letters & Science
Environmental Sciences
CALS students: Department of Soil Science, 263 Soils Building, 1525 Observatory Drive, Madison, WI 53706-1207; envirosci.cals.wisc.edu
L&S students: Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, 1225 West Dayton Street, Room 849, Madison, WI 53706
The environmental sciences major satisfies the growing demand among entry-level students for a rigorous, science-based program that promotes critical thinking and emphasizes environmental problem solving in service to society. The program is designed to prepare graduates who will be highly competitive for entry-level positions in nonprofit and private sectors, and for master’s programs and doctoral research programs in environmental fields. Possible career paths include environmental monitoring, consulting, education, research, and planning, as well as natural resource management, ecology restoration, remediation, water and air quality assessment, sustainability practices, and more. Undergraduates in environmental sciences prepare for a variety of career and graduate school opportunities that require a strong background in the natural sciences. Foundational course work in the major includes calculus, biology, chemistry, and physics. Core and elective course work is fulfilled through diverse offerings from both the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and the College of Letters & Science.
The environmental sciences major can be earned under the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree program. The major may be combined with many other majors such as environmental studies, life sciences communication, agronomy, soil science, foreign language/culture, and a number of other disciplines.
Environmental sciences is offered as a major in both the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) and the College of Letters & Science (L&S). Students are encouraged to review the degree requirements for both L&S and CALS and choose the college from which they would prefer to earn their degree; students may choose only one degree "home."
- In CALS, the major is housed administratively in the Department of Soil Science.
- In L&S, the major is housed administratively in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences.
An undergraduate B.S. degree is offered through both colleges; a B.A. option is offered through L&S only.
Up-to-date information, curriculum, and requirements are posted at envirosci.cals.wisc.edu. Students are encouraged to contact Bonner Karger (608-262-9969, bskarger@wisc.edu) to set up initial meetings, prior to declaring with either college.
This page was updated 6/8/12.