Life and Environmental Sciences (LES)

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability (8 Semester Degree Plan)

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

The Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) for the BS in Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability are as follows:

• Conceptual Knowledge

The student will understand the fundamental principles of the natural sciences and their application to environmental issues including environmental sustainability, health, waste management, biodiversity conservation, environmental hazards, energy and earth systems.

• Communication Skills

The student will explain environmental science and sustainability concepts using the related terminology in context, and will formulate content using advanced written, oral and visual communication skills.

• Problem Solving & :Critical Thinking

The student will critically assess the information from various sources to develop logical and coherent arguments and evaluate practical and sustainable solutions to environmental problems. :

• Research Skills

The student will demonstrate a strong understanding of scientific methods and approaches to collect and analyze scientific data and will apply this knowledge using scientific tools and techniques during practical field and laboratory exercises.

• Environmental Awareness and Responsibility

The student will demonstrate a wide appreciation of modern environmental issues at both local and global scales and will incorporate socio-cultural norms while taking on professional responsibilities in environmental stewardship.

• Practical and Professional Engagement

The student will develop skills to operate professionally, ethically and autonomously in the workplace, whether as individuals, as part of a larger team, or as the leader of a team.

Program Plan

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability is structured in an eight-semester plan that begins with core courses common to several majors and progresses through the ESS major-specific natural and environmental science courses from semester 4 onwards. Students interested in the ESS Major need to make sure to enroll in COL165 during semester 2 and Math114 in semester 3. During the last semester, students are required to complete an Internship at a workplace relevant to the Major. Placements are arranged for the students and in the past have included government agencies dealing with environmental issues (EAD, MoCCaE) as well as private employers. Besides providing real-world experience, Internships are a great way for students to begin networking with potential employers. Several of our students have gone on to find jobs at their internship placements. During the last semester students are also required to complete a Senior Project, which is a culminating experience for students to demonstrate how to apply theory and practice gained during the previous semesters to address an issue relevant to environmental science and sustainability. For the Senior Project, students work with a Faculty advisor who provides guidance while allowing the student to work independently.