Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

From climate change and habitat destruction to air and water pollution, our planet faces a growing amount of environmental challenges. Environmental science, an interdisciplinary field that combines ecology, biology, zoology, oceanography, geology, chemistry, and other sciences, can help innovate solutions. Common career paths: ecological scientist, wildlife biologist, land use planner.

As a student in our Environmental Science program, you’ll explore the complex processes of the natural world, how humans fit in, and what we can do to create a positive impact. In addition, you'll get hands-on practical experience in the process. You will work in the environment, for the environment.

An Interdisciplinary Approach

Your studies will reflect a variety of perspectives through coursework in biology, chemistry, geology, and more. Along with deep knowledge of environmental science, our Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program will arm you with the skills needed to thrive in the professional world—including written and oral communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Guided by Jesuit values, you’ll develop an informed approach to the ethical stewardship of our planet’s natural resources.

Hands-on Research Opportunities

Our curriculum provides several opportunities for students to practice science, both in the laboratory and out in the field. Furthermore, our program offers opportunities for students to conduct research alongside a faculty member in their area of expertise, including ecosystem ecology, entomology, freshwater biology, ornithology, and environmental health. You’ll learn how to read and interpret data, perform experiments, and sharpen your technical skills as a budding scientist. This in turn could lead to co-presenting at national and international conferences as well as the opportunity to co-author a study for a research journal.

Individual Attention and Mentoring

Through small classes, you’ll be able to bond with classmates and work directly with faculty. As experts in their field, they enjoy mentoring the next generation of scientists. You’ll also receive one-on-one advisement from the program director to identify the best area of concentration for you within the major. With all of this support, you can tailor your curriculum and academic experience, which will build your confidence as a future professional.

Internships

Completing two distinct internships as part of the program will give you hands-on work experience and exposure to a wide range of career possibilities. You’ll gain real-world practice in areas such as environmental monitoring and regulation, environmental consulting, urban ecology, sustainable agriculture, wildlife biology, and conservation.

Recent internship sites include:

• Buffalo Museum of Science
• Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy
• Cornell Laboratory for Ornithology
• Department of Environmental Conservation
• Texas Conservation Corps
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Distinctions

Recent program graduates have accepted positions with leading environmental firms as well as state and federal environmental agencies. About half of Environmental Science students perform post-graduate work to open up additional career opportunities.

Canisius University is a supportive community of people from all walks of life, engaged in conscientious academic, personal, and spiritual inquiry. Griffs learn how to think more deeply, create more boldly, dare more courageously, and live more compassionately, developing the skills and confidence to take the lead in their chosen field, career, and community.

Who We Are

We take the best in every student – and make it that much greater. We believe that greatness is in everyone, and as each individual flourishes, the world benefits. Our rigorous curriculum, vibrant and inclusive campus environment, and professional and community connections create a transformative educational experience that goes deeper than imparting necessary skills and knowledge. Griffs know how to think and how to lead, making them not only well-positioned to succeed in an ever-changing job market but also well-equipped to change the world.

Canisius at a Glance

• Founded: 1870 in Buffalo, NY
• Affiliation: Jesuit
• Students: 2,492
• Accredited schools and colleges: 3
• Majors, minors, and degree programs: 100+
• Student-faculty ratio: 11:1
• Percent of classes taught by faculty: 100%
• NCAA Division-I teams: 20
• Student-run clubs and organizations: 60+
• Alumni: 50,000+ worldwide

What We Stand For

• We are sensitive to the challenges that the world faces. As a university, we have the power to address injustice by expanding access to our transformative education, advancing equity, and producing new knowledge that advances humanity. And when our students graduate, they go on to meaningfully impact the areas that call out to them.
• Our community is respectful, creative, and tightly knit. Here, we cherish and challenge the individual, making space and providing support for everyone to discover their passions, articulate their purpose and become the greatest version of themselves.
• We are determined to make a difference. We understand that doing things the way that they have always been done only perpetuates the status quo and that there is no progress without action. Motivated by a vision of what could and should be, we move forward fearlessly.
• We see and respect every individual as a whole person. Every Griff, whether they’re a faculty member, staff person, or a student, plays a role in every other Griff’s development. When we lift each other up, we all reach even greater heights.