Environmental Science

### **ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE**

Environmental science focuses on the relationship between human activities and the environment. It helps understand nature from a scientific point of view.

### **Its Environment Matters**

Environmental issues are some of the most important challenges facing the planet today. As the human population grows and technology advances, pressure increases on earth’s natural systems. Society struggles with:

- Air, water, and soil pollution

- Global warming

- Diminishing natural resources

- Waste disposal

- Climate change

- Deforestation

- Ecosystem and wildlife extinction

Metropolises like New York face unique problems. High population density and greenhouse gas emissions contribute to large-scale pollution and sometimes illness.

### **Career Opportunities**

Environmental science is an exciting field where science is used to serve society. As environmental issues increase, there is also an increased demand for jobs in this field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this field are projected to grow 15% from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. Many “green” jobs that are in demand today didn’t exist 10 years ago.

### **Hands-On Learning**

As an environmental science student, individuals will get the chance to work with experts in the field both on and off campus. Close collaboration with a faculty adviser will help plan a course of study that meets specific goals. Students will also be encouraged to pursue independent research projects. Manhattan University is home to the Center for Urban Resilience and Environmental Sustainability (CURES), which works to:

- Support research in the environmental science field

- Bring speakers to campus to promote discussion

- Partner with local outreach organizations

- Promote urban resilience, sustainability, and environmental justice

CURES also hosts a summer internship in urban agriculture. Students learn about urban farming by maintaining the university’s rooftop garden on the Broadway parking garage. Off-campus, environmental science students have interned with organizations and departments such as:

- New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

- U.S. Department of Agriculture

- Groundwork Hudson Valley

- Environmental consulting firms

- County health departments

- Drinking water plants

- County conservation districts

- Botanical gardens and zoos

### **What Will Students Learn?**

The environmental studies major combines classes from many disciplines and allows tailoring coursework to specific interests. Many courses are science-based and take place in labs, enabling students to use lab and field instrumentation, computer applications, and statistical techniques. Regardless of how the curriculum is customized, students will:

- Understand the theory of the natural environment and its relationships with human activities

- Learn to approach environmental problems from different points of view

- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

- Show understanding of environmental issues through written and oral presentations

- Conduct research, analyze data, and evaluate results in partnership with professors