Environmental Science

The environmental science program, like the broad field of environmental science, is by its very nature highly interdisciplinary. Although the College of Agriculture administers the program through the Department of Agronomy & Soils, the colleges of engineering and science and mathematics are equal partners in developing the curriculum, guiding student development and providing instruction.

Environmental quality issues tend to be complex and expertise in physics, chemistry, biology and geology is often needed to understand and appreciate a specific problem. Moreover, formulating solutions frequently requires mathematical expertise as well as specific knowledge of air, water, and soil environments. Thus, the program is structured to educate environmental scientists broadly, but with considerable depth. The Environmental Science Program is specifically tailored to produce graduates who can enter and have an expectation of success in a field that is continually changing.

Quick Facts

The Auburn University Environmental Science program originated in 1973, and has continued to expand over the years. The objectives of the program include students developing necessary technical knowledge and skills, develop effective communication skills, and prepare students to become responsible citizens. Graduates from this program will demonstrate an understanding of contemporary issues facing society as a whole and the local and global historical, social, economic, and political context environmental science professionals play in dealing effectively with societal problems. Since environmental science is a mission oriented discipline, students will understand and appreciate the unique responsibilities of environmental science professionals to protect and promote the public interest, health and safety.

Environmental Science Curriculum Model

Tracks

The principal educational goals are to provide each student with a broad-based general education, a solid background in mathematics, physical science, and biological science, breadth of exposure to the environmental science field, and depth of knowledge in a specific area of environmental science of choice.

The curriculum is organized around a core of courses that are required of all students. Students desiring to specialize may select from groups of courses, called professional tracks, which emphasize environmental applications of biological science, physical science, soil science, or engineering science. A general environmental science track is also available.

Careers

Current employment opportunities are quite good. Typical entry-level jobs range from working outdoors taking environmental samples of all kinds to analyzing environmental samples in a laboratory setting, to evaluating waste disposal sites, to writing environmental impact statements, to operating waste treatment facilities to managing hazardous material inventories. The possibilities are almost endless.

Environmental Consultant
Environmental Health Technician
Environmental Protection Assistant
Environmental Protection Specialist
Environmental Educator
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Planner
Environmental Scientist
Air/Water Quality Manager
Conservation Agent
Soil Scientist

Employers

Regional and national manufacturing companies
Consulting engineering firms
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Alabama Department of Environmental Management
Waste handling and disposal firms
Local governments
Research organizations
Extension Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Forest Service
Fish and Wildlife Service
Agricultural Research Service

Contact

To learn more about the Environmental Science Program, contact Dr. Wes Wood at woodwes@auburn.edu or contact Student Services.

Last Updated: July 12, 2011