Bachelor Degree in Environmental Physical Science
Environmental Physical Science deals with the identification, study, and treatment of a variety of environmental problems including ground and surface water quality and management, waste treatment, land-use planning, soil testing, contaminant chemistry, and monitoring, hazardous waste disposal, land reclamation, and energy management and production. The Science Department at Black Hills State University is a small, personable department committed to quality undergraduate programs in science, with a special emphasis on involving students in research and internship experiences. Although the Environmental Physical Science major is rigorous, the rewards are great. This is a broad and varied science, requiring a background in a number of different science areas. In addition to a variety of geology classes, students will complete additional coursework in chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Students with a strong background in these physical sciences are thus able to successfully compete for the internship, graduate school, and employment opportunities. More advanced study at the graduate level opens up even more opportunities, including advanced research in national laboratories, environmental law, and teaching/research at the college or university level. This major also takes advantage of Black Hills State University's geographical location in an area of active renewable and nonrenewable resource production. The environmental concern surrounding this type of activity creates a wide variety of opportunities for internships and undergraduate research projects.