As an environmental studies major at Grace, you鈥檒l dive into the complex ways organisms interact with one another, and you鈥檒l explore how humanity鈥檚 societal and political systems impact the environment 鈥 for better or for worse.
Our environmental science program, which includes majors in environmental science, environmental biology, and environmental studies, finds its roots in the very, very beginning. As outlined in Genesis, we as God鈥檚 image-bearers have the privilege and obligation to steward His wonderful Creation. As an environmental study major, you鈥檒l fulfill this mandate through social awareness and advocacy.
Your core courses, including ecology, psychology, and environmental ethics, will equip you with scientific and social expertise to navigate environmental advocacy. From there, you鈥檒l choose from classes in areas that interest you, whether that鈥檚 geography, government, or microbiology.
The best way to describe Grace鈥檚 environmental studies degree program? 鈥淗ands-on鈥 and 鈥渇eet-wet.鈥 From restoring tallgrass prairies, to holding prescribed burns, to collecting bloodworms 80 feet down in Winona Lake, get ready to grab your gear and explore all five of the major Midwestern ecosystems right here on campus: forestry, grasses, wetlands and marshlands, streams, and lakes!
Your courses will culminate in a senior seminar, in which you will research, prepare, and present scholarship about an environmental topic of your choice.
You鈥檒l also have an entirely unique internship opportunity at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams, a nonprofit research center and division of 草榴社区. You may maintain the building鈥檚 several aquariums, take periodic research samples, or prepare educational curricula for local elementary schools!
When you graduate, you鈥檒l be equipped for environmental work in any social setting. Environmental studies degree graduates at Grace have gone on to work in environmental law, environmental compliance, and nonprofit rehabilitation work.
